Our Team
Alison Flores, Executive Director
Alison has worked in the non-profit sector for more than 15 years. She has always had a passion for helping individuals with all abilities set and achieve their goals. In her down time, she loves spending time with her family. Alison currently lives in Lake Zurich with her husband Rafael and son Lucas.
Megan Frey, Career Programs Manager
Megan graduated from Georgia Southern University with my degree in Recreation Therapy, and am a CTRS as of 2017. I have a long background of working with individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, so I can't wait to keep my passion alive at GiGi's Playhouse. I have a 3-year-old lab mix named Milly, and she is my favorite running and fishing buddy. In my spare time, you can find me in Wisconsin on a boat or fishing, and cheering on the Chicago White Sox!
Maria Luciani – Speech Pathologist
I have been a certified Speech Pathologist for 39 years. I spent my career in High School District 211 at Hoffman Estates High School. I was responsible for providing services to students with Individual Education Plans in both regular and special education programs. I retired from District 211 in May, 2019. I have been at GiGi’s Playhouse about two years and work on Mondays and Wednesdays. The rest of the week I watch my grandchildren and take care of my parents. In my free time, I enjoy reading, cycling and swimming.
Regina Garcia – Speech and Language Patholgist
I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Iowa and my masters at Saint Louis University. My passion for becoming a speech-language pathologist started in college working respite, after school program, and job coaching with individuals with disabilities. There, I found how imperative communication is to making connections and improving quality of life. In my free time, I love to be outdoors, travel, and spend time with friends and family.
Abbey Wenzel – Program and Volunteer Manager
Abbey graduated from Butler University with a bachelor's degree in Youth and Community Development with a focus in Sociology and Social Work and a minor in Diverse Learners. After graduation, she found herself in the classroom at numerous substitute teaching positions; from Algebra 1 to 6th grade STEM. She decided to move back home to Illinois, closer to family, to pursue her passion for nonprofit at Associated Equipment Distributors; the international trade association for heavy equipment dealers. Abbey wants to continue her passion for nonprofit with an organization that works more closely with the members of her community, which lead her to GiGi's Playhouse! She lives in Algonquin with her German Shepard Dog, Tucker, and enjoys grilling, golfing, boating, and all things outdoors!
Brooke Papin – Operations Manager
Brooke graduated from Western Michigan University in December of 2023. She grew up in the northern Illinois suburbs and is very excited to be back in the Chicagoland area. She has a one-year-old lab mix named Tallie and enjoys spending time with family and friends. During her time at WMU, she has worked with many non-profits and values the time she spends connecting to her local communities. With her role at GiGi’s Playhouse, she is looking forward to building relationships with families and contributing to the organization’s mission of positive awareness and acceptance towards Down syndrome!
Kya – Hugs & Mugs Store Manager
Kya grew up in McHenry and brings a wealth of experience to GiGi's Playhouse. She spent seven years with Goodwill, where she managed various locations, assisted in opening new stores, and led supportive employment programs designed for adults facing barriers. Her passion for working with these adults made her especially excited to join the GiGi's team.
Kya's vibrant personality is reflected in her hobbies and interests. She has two chihuahua pups, Nicki Minaj and Cardi B, who keep her company. A lover of music and performance, Kya often finds herself singing and performing at karaoke events. She has a keen eye for fashion, enjoys thrifting, and delights in creating fun outfits. Additionally, her love for cheerleading continues as she choreographs routines, sharing her enthusiasm and creativity with others.