Volunteer Spotlight: Diane Austria

This week, we are excited to spotlight one of our amazing volunteers, Diane Austria! While new to the GiGi’s NYC community, Diane has quickly become part of our family and a tremendous asset to our volunteer team. Please join us in thanking Diane for her commitment to GiGi’s NYC! We hope you enjoy the below Q&A with Diane. 

How and when did you first get involved with GiGi’s Playhouse NYC? 

I first heard about volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse NYC from a relative on Facebook. GiGi’s NYC was looking for volunteers to help with their LitLab program. It sounded like a fun way to volunteer and meet new people. 

What do you do as a volunteer? 

I am a volunteer in the LitLab program. I am currently partnered with Vladamir. We had a great time during the Winter semester. We worked on a research presentation about one of his favorite sports, basketball. The Spring semester has recently started, and I am looking forward to us learning about new topics together. 

What is the best part about volunteering with GiGi’s NYC? 

I have loved getting to know Vladimir and his family, and meeting the other participants in the program. Everyone is so supportive of each other. LitLab is the highlight of my week. I always leave the program smiling. 

How do you enjoy spending your free time? 

I love to cook and bake for my family and friends. GiGi’s NYC will be coming out with a cookbook, and I can’t wait to try out some of the recipes! I also like to spend time outdoors and be creative. I love to sew, paint, and draw. 

What do you want the GiGi’s Playhouse NYC community to know? 

They are awesome and inspiring! 

Thank you, Diane, for your kind and thoughtful words. We always leave LitLab smiling, too! From all of us here at GiGi’s NYC, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continued support and belief in our mission.