Volunteer Spotlight: Kim Briggs

We started this blog series for volunteer appreciation week in April, but we have so many wonderful volunteers to talk about it, that we decided to continue it through the year! 

Just a reminder, GiGi’s Playhouse Madison is 99% volunteer run – which means we wouldn’t be here without our volunteers. We had 309 unique volunteers last year and have consistently been in the top five Playhouses for volunteer hours. 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. 

Kim Briggs

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

After retiring as a special education teacher a few years ago, I wanted to spend more time volunteering. One day, I happened to drive past GiGi’s Playhouse and was interested in finding out more. After checking out the website and seeing an opportunity for tutoring, I applied and became a tutor within several weeks. I had never heard of the Playhouse, and am so glad I happened upon it that day! 

How long have you been a volunteer? 

I began tutoring my student, Catherine, in 2016 and continue to work with her once per week during our Fall and Spring sessions, as well as during the summer. We have so much fun and have developed a great friendship over the years! 

What programs, committees or events have you volunteered with? 

I have been involved with literacy tutoring since I began, and have also volunteered several times in the past with the teen/adult group and at several events. There is always fun to be had at the Playhouse! 

Can you share a favorite moment from your time volunteering? 

Catherine and I have had many great moments! We almost always have a great time during our lessons, and it has been so much fun seeing her grow, not only in her literacy skills, but from a young elementary student into a confident, fun-loving middle schooler! Catherine has a wonderful, supportive family and her Mom attends every session. She lets me know what Catherine is working on in school, so we can reinforce some of those goals in our lessons, too. 

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

Over the past few years tutoring, I have gotten to know Catherine and her family very well. The friendship that we have developed has truly been a blessing to me and has definitely enriched my life. It has been so fulfilling to find a small way to give back while doing something I have always enjoyed. 

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

GiGi’s has a very caring, knowledgeable and dedicated staff and group of volunteers to help anyone who is considering volunteering. My experience has been mainly as a tutor, but there are other areas to volunteer depending on what interests you. There is always someone to support you and offer training to help you feel well prepared. I am so thankful I found out about GiGi’s and the wonderful programs they offer. 

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Thank you, Kim! 🧡