Volunteer Spotlight: Susan Dukin

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. 

Susan Dukin

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

My son-in-law Brian asked for donations instead of gifts for Christmas, in 2021. He chose the Special Olympics and GiGi’s Playhouse because he had an uncle with Down syndrome. He knew about the Minneapolis Playhouse. When I looked up GiGi’s, I found the Madison Playhouse! In January, I brought a check to the Playhouse and met Kelly. Her spirit is contagious. I immediately signed up to volunteer. Also, after my granddaughter Addison was born, we called my Mom, GiGi – it was a true sign that I should be part of this amazing place. 

How long have you been a volunteer? 

Since January of 2022. 

What programs, committees or events have you volunteered with? 

Dynamic Duals, LMNOP & Math Tutoring

Can you share a favorite moment from your time volunteering? 

I just LOVE being with children, teens and their families. 

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

I tutor an individual named Alyssa in Math. After a few weeks, she told me that coming to Math was her favorite thing to do. Alyssa started waving when she came and left our tutoring sessions. After about four weeks, she started hugging me at the start and end of each session. 

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

All you need is love in your heart and you’ll be a wonderful volunteer. You get so much more than you give. 

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Thank you, Susan! 🧡