The Courageous Calling That Changed Everything in 1 Year

Kendall Perry’s Journey From Volunteer to Leader at GiGi’s Playhouse that Changed the Course of Her Life

When Kendall Perry first began volunteering in the Teen Tastic program at GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County, she was working at a job that didn’t fulfill her. It wasn’t in her field of interest, but it paid the bills. What she didn’t know at the time was that volunteering here would completely shift her path. Within just a few months, it became clear to everyone around her that Kendall had a natural gift for working with teenagers with Down syndrome. She was intuitive, kind, and deeply accepting. She didn’t force connection; it came effortlessly. Kendall quickly became a trusted, steady presence in the program, someone both participants and fellow volunteers looked to for support and guidance. 

As her talent and heart for this work became more evident, we began encouraging Kendall to consider a new direction, one that aligned with her natural strengths: special education. We could see she would thrive there. At the same time, we invited her to take on other volunteer opportunities at GiGi’s to gain a broader understanding of our mission and the many layers that make the Playhouse thrive, from the participants we serve to the donors and community partners who make it possible. 

Kendall jumped in wholeheartedly. At this year’s Putting for the Playhouse Golf Tournament, she was everywhere, printing photos, greeting donors on the course, assisting with check-out, and making sure every guest felt welcomed. She gave her entire day to help, and her presence didn’t go unnoticed. It was the perfect opportunity for her to connect with Board members, families, and supporters while seeing firsthand how events like this sustain our work. Her energy is bright and contagious, her initiative unwavering. She is the kind of volunteer every nonprofit dreams of, someone who doesn’t wait to be asked but instead sees what needs to be done and does it with heart and purpose. 

Recently, Kendall took another brave step forward by making a huge change, leaving the job she didn’t love, to accept a position as a para-educator in the local school district. It’s a role that aligns beautifully with her gifts and the passion she discovered through her time at GiGi’s. On top of that, she has just agreed to co-chair the 2026 GiGi’s Gala and she is now a 1:1 Tutor, a testament to her leadership, courage, and commitment to making an impact. This new role will give her a deeper understanding of nonprofit operations and how her contributions help shape the lives of those we serve. 

Kendall Perry is one of those rare people who simply makes the world better by being in it. She leads with compassion, gives selflessly, and brings out the best in everyone around her. Watching her follow her calling, with the ability to change and pivot, has been an inspiration, and we couldn’t be prouder to have her as part of the GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County family. 

GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County is a nonprofit achievement center that offers free programs for individuals with Down syndrome from birth through adulthood, as well as support for their families, friends, and community. Our mission is to change the way the world views Down syndrome through consistent programming, educational resources, and meaningful connection. Every program we offer is free of charge, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to participation. Through fitness, literacy, social, and life skills programs, we empower individuals with Down syndrome to reach their highest potential while fostering a culture of acceptance and inclusion across Orange County.