Volunteer Spotlight: Jacob Donohue

Volunteer appreciation week is April 16-22, but we have so many wonderful volunteers to talk about it, that we’ll be celebrating all month! Just a reminder, GiGi’s Playhouse Madison is 99% volunteer run – which means we wouldn’t be here without our volunteers. It’s pretty incredible to think back on all of the hours people have given to us – 5,698 hours in 2022 alone! These blogs will be posted in a question and answer format. 

Jacob Donohue

Why did you decide to volunteer with GiGi’s Playhouse? 

I was originally invited to attend the annual fundraising Gala through my work (Festival Foods is a sponsor) and was absolutely amazed by everyone that I met. At GiGi’s, everyone is important, everyone is accepted and everyone is included, and I knew then, that I needed to get more involved with such an awesome organization. 

How long have you been a volunteer? 

I have been volunteering with GiGi’s for a little over a year. I worked with other organizations outside the Madison area for a few years prior to moving here. 

What programs, committees or events have you volunteered with? 

• Dynamic Duals
• Board Member
• Gala/Events Committee
• Fundraising Committee

What is your favorite way to volunteer with GiGi’s? 

This is a two-part answer. The first way is helping out with the Dynamic Duals program that takes place every month and the second is helping with all the events that GiGi’s puts on each year. 

Can you share a favorite moment from your time volunteering? 

Seeing individuals light up when visiting the Playhouse or attending/participating in the events. Seeing some of the families and individuals dancing all night at the Gala and having the best time ever, is one of the most rewarding things to witness. 

What is the most impactful thing you have learned from your time at GiGi’s? 

I am constantly wowed by the people that run this organization, the people that visit/participate at the Playhouse and events that GiGi’s puts on. GiGi’s serves such a happy and deserving community, I never expected to have as much fun as I do. 

What advice would you give to someone that is new to volunteering or considering volunteering with GiGi’s Playhouse? 

Jump right in!! It can be a little overwhelming at first, due to everything this awesome organization has going on all the time, but being a part of it has been so rewarding and fun. There are so many different ways to give back and help, whether it is a couple of hours a week working directly with families that visit the Playhouse or helping in the background to make sure everything runs smoothly and that all visitors get the most of their GiGi’s experience. 

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Thank you, Jacob. 🧡