July Spotlights

Join us in celebrating and learning more about the incredible individuals who contribute to making GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville such a special place!

Volunteer Spotlight: Kat Edwards

Kat is a rising sophomore at Lipscomb University who has quickly become a beloved volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville. She first joined our community during our annual Luau party this summer, jumping right in with a joyful spirit and willingness to help wherever needed. From the moment she arrived, Kat’s positive energy and kind heart stood out, and it was clear she would be a wonderful addition to our team.

Since that first event, Kat has been a consistent and dedicated presence at both our Occupational Therapy workshops and GiGi’s Kitchen Kids. Whether she’s helping with food prep alongside participants or supporting therapeutic activities, Kat brings warmth, patience, and curiosity to every interaction. She is always asking questions, engaging with participants, and doing her part to create a welcoming, inclusive space.

We are so grateful for Kat’s eagerness to learn and her genuine passion for our mission. She shows up with a smile, ready to serve and connect with others, and her impact is already felt by participants, families, and fellow volunteers alike. We can’t wait to see how Kat continues to grow with us—we know she has a bright future ahead!

Participant Spotlight: Thomas Raphael

Thomas has been a bright and familiar face at GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville for over five years. As a dedicated participant, he has explored a variety of programs, from Music Makers – where he loves to explore instruments and move to the rhythm – to one-on-one tutoring sessions that help strengthen his literacy skills. His continued commitment to showing up, learning, and engaging with others makes him an important part of the GiGi’s community.

This summer, Thomas has been enjoying two of our most energetic and connection-filled programs: Teen Tastic and Yoga. In Teen Tastic, he gets the chance to socialize, play games, and bond with other teens while building confidence and teamwork skills. Yoga has been a great opportunity for Thomas to slow down, stretch, and practice mindfulness—all while smiling his way through the poses. Whether he’s moving or meditating, he brings joy and presence to every moment.

What makes Thomas truly stand out is his sweet nature and his eagerness to connect with others. He’s always excited to see his friends and the volunteers, greeting them with a cheerful attitude and warm smile. His kindness and enthusiasm brighten up every room he walks into. We are so grateful to have Thomas as part of our GiGi’s family and love watching him grow, thrive, and build lasting friendships through our programs.

Tutor Spotlight: Gracie Helou

Gracie is a new math tutor at GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville, joining the team this summer with a heart full of enthusiasm and a passion for helping others succeed. From the moment she stepped into the Playhouse, Gracie has brought a positive energy and eagerness to make a difference. She is currently working one-on-one with a school-age participant, helping to build foundational math skills and confidence through engaging and personalized sessions.

Gracie’s thoughtful approach to tutoring ensures that her student feels supported and empowered during each lesson. She takes the time to understand her participant’s unique learning style and celebrates every milestone – usually with a karaoke session to the participant’s favorite songs! Her patience, creativity, and dedication to fostering growth have made her a trusted and valued presence in the tutoring program in just a short time.

Outside of tutoring, Gracie enjoys getting to know the other participants, volunteers, and staff, quickly becoming part of the GiGi’s community. Her commitment to inclusion and belief in the potential of every learner align beautifully with GiGi’s mission. We are so grateful to have Gracie as part of the team this summer and can’t wait to see the continued impact she’ll make.

Program Spotlight: Teen Tastic

Teen Tastic at GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville is one of our most energetic and engaging programs, created specifically for teens with Down syndrome to foster friendship, confidence, and social skills. This free program meets regularly and provides a structured environment where participants can connect through creative activities, team-building games, and themed events. Whether it’s game night, karaoke, crafts, or community outings, each session is designed to celebrate individuality and encourage meaningful peer interaction.

Led by a dedicated team of volunteers and supported by GiGi’s staff, Teen Tastic provides more than just fun—it’s a space where teens build essential life skills and develop strong bonds with one another. The program encourages communication, cooperation, and decision-making, all while promoting a spirit of inclusion. Our volunteers often note how much they look forward to Teen Tastic nights because of the joy, laughter, and growth they witness in each participant.

One of the things that makes Teen Tastic so special is its ever-changing calendar of events. From dance parties to scavenger hunts and seasonal celebrations, each session brings something new and exciting. These shared experiences help our teens step outside their comfort zones and try new things in a supportive environment. At its heart, Teen Tastic is about creating memories, celebrating milestones, and ensuring that every teen knows they belong.