May 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: Kaylee Duplessis & Carly Brennan

This month, we are thrilled to shine our Volunteer Spotlight on Kaylee and Carly, two outstanding young women who have brought energy, kindness, and dedication to GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville. Kaylee began volunteering with us in 2023 and has since become a familiar and beloved face in programs like Yoga, Creative Exploration, Teen Tastic, and GiGi’s Kitchen Kids. Her warm smile and enthusiasm make participants feel welcome and supported, and her consistent presence has made a lasting impact on our community.

Carly joined the GiGi’s family this past January and has quickly become a valued and dependable volunteer. Whether she’s assisting in group activities or engaging one-on-one with participants, Carly’s compassion and positivity shine through. She has shown a natural ability to connect with individuals of all ages, and her time with us has already been filled with so many meaningful moments.

Both Kaylee and Carly are about to graduate from high school and will soon begin exciting new chapters in college. We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished and the heart they have poured into our mission. Their time at GiGi’s has left a positive and lasting impression, and we are confident they will continue to do amazing things wherever life takes them. Thank you, Kaylee and Carly, for your service, your spirit, and your love for our community!

Participant Spotlight: Hannah Gaines

Hannah is a joyful and dedicated participant at GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville who has been involved in programs for the past seven years. Her long-standing commitment to the Playhouse reflects her enthusiasm for learning, growing, and connecting with others. Over the years, Hannah has become a familiar and beloved face at GiGi’s, always bringing her bright smile and positive energy to every program she attends!

Currently, Hannah participates in Music Makers, GiGi’s Kitchen Kids, Math Tutoring, and Destination Discovery—all programs that highlight her many talents and interests. In both Music Makers and Destination Discovery, which is also a music-focused program, Hannah’s love of rhythm and song truly shines. She enthusiastically engages with instruments, movement, and group singing, making her a joyful and uplifting presence for peers and volunteers alike. Her passion for music is contagious and helps foster a collaborative environment for everyone involved.

In GiGi’s Kitchen Kids, Hannah continues to grow her independence and life skills by working alongside volunteers to prepare healthy recipes and practice safe kitchen habits. Her dedication to learning is equally evident in Math Tutoring, where she shows persistence and focus while building her academic confidence. Hannah is not only a hard worker—she’s a kind and supportive friend who brings out the best in those around her. We are proud to have watched her grow over the years and grateful for the joy and inspiration she brings to the GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville community.

Tutor Spotlight: Laura Rompala

Laura is a dedicated Literacy Tutor at GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville, where she works one-on-one with a young participant with Down syndrome. Her sessions are filled with patience, encouragement, and a deep commitment to helping her student grow in confidence and early reading skills. Laura brings warmth and enthusiasm to every tutoring session, tailoring her approach to meet her student’s unique learning needs and ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.

Before moving to Nashville, Laura began her journey with GiGi’s Playhouse at the Lakewood, Ohio location during its early days. Her connection to the mission of GiGi’s runs deep—shaped by her personal experience growing up with a younger sister born with disabilities. That experience gave Laura a lifelong sense of compassion and a desire to help others who may be seen as “different,” fueling her dedication to making a meaningful impact through inclusive education and support.

Since joining the Nashville Playhouse, Laura has become a beloved member of the volunteer team. She is motivated by a sincere wish to use her background and experiences to lift others up and help children with Down syndrome reach their full potential. Her presence not only benefits the participant she tutors but also strengthens the overall sense of community at GiGi’s. Laura’s story is a powerful reminder of how personal experiences can inspire lasting acts of kindness and service.

Program Spotlight: Book & Cook: GiGi’s Kitchen Kids (4-8)

Book and Cook: GiGi’s Kitchen Kids is a dynamic program that blends the joy of storytelling with hands-on cooking activities for participants ages 4–8. Each session begins with an engaging story that captures the imagination and sets the stage for a themed snack-making activity. These simple, creative recipes bring the story to life while encouraging children to explore new foods, practice fine motor skills, and build confidence in the kitchen.

The program is intentionally designed to include parents, caregivers, and siblings, making it a special time for connection and shared experiences. As children listen to stories and prepare snacks together with their loved ones, they also build social skills, teamwork, and lasting memories. This supportive and inclusive environment fosters friendship and community among all who attend.

Rooted in the goals of GiGi’s Kitchen Kids, Book and Cook emphasizes early exposure to healthy habits, kitchen safety, and food preparation skills. Participants gain a sense of independence and accomplishment as they follow simple steps, try new ingredients, and enjoy the results of their hard work. Book and Cook is more than a fun activity—it’s a meaningful opportunity to develop life skills, nurture creativity, and promote a lifelong love of learning and wellness.