Why GiGi’s? | Elizabeth

If you visit GiGi’s Playhouse Hoffman Estates for our fabulous no cost, purposeful programing you know our amazing Programing Coordinator, Elizabeth. We wanted to share a bit more about this amazing lady with you all, so we asked her tell us “why GiGi’s?” …….

My Background:

I grew up in in the south suburbs, Tinley Park, Illinois. Growing up I knew I always wanted to work with children. My grandma has worked as a pediatric nurse and a school nurse for children with special needs all of my life and still today. I drew an interest in working with children with special needs since I was very young attending different events with my grandma. While attending College at UIC I volunteered at the University of Chicago Comer Children’s Hospital as a Child Life volunteer. Later, during graduate school, I obtained a child life practicum at Northshore Evanston Hospital and co- taught in a couple Elementary schools for children with special needs. A couple years ago, I saw that GiGi’s Playhouse opened up down the street from my home in Tinley Park. During my last year of graduate school at the Erikson Institute I began a child development internship at the Tinley Park Playhouse. What an awesome experience working with all the families and volunteers at the playhouse! I assisted with programs, tutored literacy, led Fantastic Friends and also worked side by side with the site director Beth Kazmierczak on playhouse events, outreach, and managing volunteers.

GiGi’s Playhouse Hoffman Estates:

In July of 2016, I took on the role of the Programs Coordinator at the Hoffman Estates Playhouse. I currently oversee all programs here at the playhouse. I make sure all programs are purposeful and ensuring them to be therapeutic and educational for our families. I also work hand in hand with our Site Director overseeing playhouse events and volunteers. I truly love working with children and adults with Down syndrome which is one reason is why I love working here. All of the families here have truly made an impact on my life. I have been able to see the kids grow so much over this past year working at the playhouse! Learning about so many of their different stories, whether it may be their awesome success stories or even some challenges they have endured, they inspire me every day. They all inspire me to do my best and to be the best I can be every day!

Thank you Elizabeth for sharing you talents and passion with GiGi’s Playhouse! You are a valuable member of the team!

If you have not been in to visit GiGi’s Playhouse Hoffman Estates we invite you! Please check out our online calendar to find the programs that best suit your needs. We will see you at GiGi’s!

educate.inspire.believe.