Spotlight: Our Friend Gleb

Gleb (27) and his family moved from Russia to the United States 11 years ago. They first attended Family Fun, and followed up with Fantastic Friends 3 weeks later. Gleb is nonverbal, usually does not interact much with others, and occasionally uses an AAC device. He and his brother Trifon both enjoyed painting at Family Fun, with Gleb being careful to paint inside the lines, and Trifon adding a botanical flair (he’s a professional artist).

Gleb’s first experience at Fantastic Friends was loud and busy; not only were there 7 participants and 4 volunteers attending, there was also an outreach tour happening AND a shelf-building project all at the same time! Despite the chaos, Gleb did a FANTASTIC job mixing the eggs for breakfast tacos with his dad! He served his own eggs, as well, and enjoyed brunch at the table with everyone. By the way, if there were an award for “Best Handmade Hat” at Fantastic Friends, Gleb would take it.

GiGi’s Playhouse Portland is happy to have Gleb and his family in our community. Can’t wait to see what his next Best of All moment is!