1 Volunteer, Infinite Impact: Remarkable Karen Przyborowski’s Role at GiGi’s Playhouse

With over four decades of experience in education, Karen enriches GiGi’s Playhouse with her volunteer work.

At GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County, we frequently stress the importance of placing the right people in the right roles. This principle became especially clear when Karen Przyborowski walked through our doors to volunteer. With her extensive background as a retired Speech Therapist and Elementary School Teacher from San Francisco, we knew we had to find the perfect spot for her immediately. After an almost 50-year career, Karen and her husband chose to retire in Orange County. Even in retirement, Karen remains a lifelong learner, leading an active life filled with family, grandchildren, travel, Spanish lessons, and now, volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County.

When Karen arrived, we were in the preliminary stages of launching our 1:1 Literacy program, a crucial initiative for our families. Her decades of experience made her an ideal candidate to help get this program off the ground. We quickly immersed Karen in literacy training, recognizing the invaluable expertise she brought to the table. Partnering with volunteers Brenda Bolla and Fran Pratt, the trio proved to be unstoppable. Brenda assumed the role of Literacy Coordinator, while Karen’s focus was on preparing tutor rooms, organizing supplies, and recruiting potential students. This collaborative effort ensured the Literacy program was set up for success from the start.

As the Literacy program progressed, Karen took on a more hands-on role as a tutor, working with two young students. Her commitment to her students is evident in her meticulous preparation and dedication. Meeting with her students at least twice a week, Karen ensures she is always well-prepared for each session. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, and she has quickly become a favorite among her students. After each tutoring session, Karen takes the time to speak with parents about their child’s progress and provide any necessary resources, reinforcing the support system we strive to offer at GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County.

Beyond her role as a tutor, Karen has seamlessly integrated into the fabric of our community. Her keen sense of style has earned her the unofficial title of the playhouse’s fashionista, always appearing chic and put together. But her contributions go far beyond appearances. Karen is patient, kind, funny, and incredibly smart, with a laugh that brightens the room. Her conversational skills, love for learning, and passion for teaching make her an asset in every interaction. Most importantly, Karen’s big heart and accepting nature embody the values we hold dear at GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County.

Karen’s journey with us highlights the profound impact a dedicated volunteer can have on our programs and community. Her ability to adapt, lead, and inspire has set a standard for excellence. As we continue to grow and evolve, having individuals like Karen on our team ensures we can provide the best possible support for our families.

GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County is undeniably a better place with Karen in it. Her presence has enriched our community, bringing a blend of professional expertise and personal warmth that resonates with everyone she meets. As we look to the future, we are excited to see the continued positive influence Karen will undoubtedly have on our programs and the lives of those we serve. Her story is a testament to the power of placing the right people in the right roles, and we are incredibly grateful to have Karen as part of our GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County family.

We offer GiGi’s 1:1 Literacy and Math Programs three times a year: Fall session (Sept – Dec), Spring session (Jan – May), and Summer session (June – Aug). Registration can be completed on the Programs page of the GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County website. Program availability depends on the number of volunteers participating in each session.