Meet Our New Social Media Ambassador: Yalena “Laney” Guerra!

We’re thrilled to officially introduce the newest member of our GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans team — Social Media Ambassador and all-around superstar, Yalena “Laney” Guerra!

Laney is a vibrant self-advocate who brings energy, joy, and a whole lot of heart to everything she does. A longtime participant and now dedicated volunteer, Laney has been part of the GiGi’s Playhouse family since 2021 and began volunteering in 2022. From the moment she walks through our doors, she brings smiles, encouragement, and a helping hand to every program she touches.

Whether she’s assisting in GiGi’s Kitchen Kids, leading with love in LMNOP (Language, Music, ‘N, Our Peeps), or engaging our youngest participants with books and ASL, Laney makes a difference. She’s also involved in Leaps & Bounds, GiGiFIT, Fantastic Friends, Achievers, Music Makers, and has participated in Speech & Language and Math & Literacy Tutoring. Her commitment is inspiring, and her impact is undeniable.

Recently, Laney completed her training to become our official Social Media Influencer — and while we’re still getting in a little practice, she’s already proving to be a natural! Outgoing, passionate, and always ready to emcee or dance to her favorite tunes, Laney is the perfect fit to help share the mission and magic of GiGi’s Playhouse with the world.

Outside of GiGi’s, Laney is a multi-talented athlete and performer. She plays bass guitar, loves to sing and line-dance, and is an active member of her community through sports and music. She plays baseball and basketball with The Miracle League of New Orleans, flag football with Tulane University Special Olympics, and is a proud member of the St. Michael Special School Bell Choir. This May, she’ll graduate from St. Michael and plans to continue her journey with the Joy Center in the fall!

Laney describes GiGi’s Playhouse as a place that has given her purpose and so much to look forward to — and we feel the same way about having her as part of our family.

Keep an eye out for Laney on our social media channels — and don’t forget to give her a shoutout when you see her sharing, posting, or helping out at an event. She’s got a lot of love to give and stories to tell… and we’re lucky to be part of her journey!

Welcome to your new role, Laney — we’re so proud of you!