Shining Bright: August Spotlights

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

Participant Spotlight

Sarah is 20 years old and recently moved to Tennessee from Connecticut.  She joined GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville in May and has already made a big impact.  Sarah participates in Achievers, a program that teaches and promotes communication, self-awareness, independence, health, and wellness with “hands-on” learning experiences.  She also attends Fantastic Friends, which is perfect for Sarah as she is all about making connections and having fun. She loves engaging in activities and playing games, and is boosting her social skills and conversation building to make new lifelong friends in her new home state! 

Sarah lights up every room she enters. She is spunky, fun, and quite fashionable! Sarah is always up for trying anything new. Her energy, kindness, and enthusiasm make her a beloved part of our Playhouse family. We feel incredibly lucky that she found us, and we’re proud of how she’s adapted to all her life changes without missing a beat. Thank you, Sarah, for all the joy you have brought to our playhouse and programs. 

Volunteer Spotlight

Melody has been an incredible volunteer at GiGi’s since January 2023. Throughout her 2 ½ years with us, she has shown how well-rounded she is by volunteering in so many different programs.  She began supporting our Yoga and Dance programs, and over time, she got involved in Teen Tastic, Gigi’s Kitchen, and Fantastic Friends. Melody even dedicated her time to help out with our “I Have a Voice” Gala this past year. 

From helping in various programs to building strong bonds with participants, she’s a trusted and familiar face at the Playhouse. She always has a smile on her face and is ready to share encouraging words with everyone she meets.  Being a tennis player, she is also very energetic and enjoys playing games and doing hands-on activities with all of our participants. She has a gift for making everyone feel seen and valued. 

Everyone at our Playhouse adores Melody, so we are thrilled that she will be co-leading our Fantastic Friends program this fall. Thank you, Melody, for sharing your versatility, passion for your community, kindness, and time so generously. 

Tutor Spotlight

Lindsey Guerin has been a dedicated volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse since 2018, sharing her talents in both math and literacy tutoring. Known for her passion for making learning fun, she has helped countless participants build their skills and confidence. After earning her Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Vanderbilt University, Lindsey returned to the tutoring team this summer, and we are so excited to have her back! She brings the same enthusiasm and creativity that have made her a favorite among learners and families alike.

Her thoughtful approach ensures that each participant feels supported and encouraged. Lindsey takes the time to understand every learner’s unique needs, celebrates each success, and finds ways to make learning both exciting and accessible. Her patience, joy, and depth of knowledge have made her a trusted and valued presence at the Playhouse, inspiring participants to embrace challenges and discover their potential.

Program Spotlight

It’s Saturday morning at GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville, and the Playhouse is buzzing with the sweet sound of giggles, clapping hands, and favorite songs sung at full volume. Little ones sway to the music in their caregivers’ arms, shake brightly colored instruments, and light up when they hear the first notes of a beloved tune. This is LMNOP, often the very first step into our Playhouse for many families, and it quickly becomes a favorite tradition.

Guiding each session is the warm and welcoming Sharon Sabol, a beloved Board Member and dedicated volunteer. Sharon brings her passion, wisdom, and heart to everything she does, from leading songs and stories to helping little ones explore the joy of movement and communication.

Designed for children from birth to age three and their parents or caregivers, LMNOP blends music, movement, stories, and simple sign language to spark early communication skills and inspire curious exploration. At our Nashville Playhouse, the energy is contagious, filled with joyful learning, new discoveries, and connections that go far beyond the classroom.

What makes LMNOP truly special here is the community it builds. Parents and caregivers celebrate milestones together, share encouragement through challenges, and form friendships that last well beyond the program. Every smile, every new sign, every proud “I did it!” moment reminds us why we love these Saturday mornings so much. LMNOP at GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville is not just about learning; it is about belonging, growing, and sharing joy as part of our Playhouse family.