Volunteer Spotlight – Shawn Fassbender

GiGi’s Playhouse is grateful for Shawn Fassbender! Shawn is an exceptional literacy and math tutor. Through Shawn’s mentorship, participants have shown remarkable progress. He empowers participants to challenge their skills, recognizes when to assist, and celebrates their accomplishments. Some of his favorite memories at GiGi’s Playhouse is tutoring graduation day and celebrating the student progress and the bond shared. Shawn has been impactful to our community in such a short time. We are grateful for his generosity of time, knowledge, skills, and resources.

How did you find GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans?

I had recently retired and moved back home from Wisconsin and wanted to explore local volunteering opportunities. Going through volunteermatch.org there was a post for a volunteering assistant at GiGi’s Playhouse.  I coordinated a visit to “strictly observe” and see if I would be a good fit.  During my initial visit I met Board Member Craig Blackburn and Pat Ehrle conducting a GiGi Fit class, within 5 minutes of “observing” the GiGi’s Fit class they had me participating.  I knew then I had found the right fit for me.

What is it about the mission of GiGi’s Playhouse that appeals to you, personally? 

The supportive programs available to families.  My daughter was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at 18 months, at the time we felt lost and had so many questions. Children’s hospital put us in touch with United Cerebral Palsy of GNO and the resources opened for us.  I see this same support from GiGi’s Playhouse. 

What do you love about being at GiGi’s? What keeps you coming back? 

I love everyone involved with GiGi’s, from the participants, parents, fellow volunteers, and board members. The atmosphere is always positive, supportive, and uplifting.  It brightens my day each visit to GiGi’s.  

Do you have a favorite memory from volunteering? 

So many to choose from, but I love graduation day for tutoring sessions and celebrating the student progress and the bond shared.

What would you say to someone who is considering volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse? 

Be prepared to be amazed and inspired!!

Interested in learning more about GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans or would like to join our volunteer team? Email Annie at awatkins@gigisplayhouse.org or fill out our volunteer form HERE. Hope to see you at the Playhouse!