Volunteer Spotlight: The Extraordinary Elena! 

Meet Elena, one of our passionate volunteers and a co-lead for Destination Discovery and Family Fun at GiGi’s Playhouse Portland. She’s been an incredible force of service over just one month after our grand opening; she brought in her personal communication support binder and helped us build our visual schedules! Elena is flexible, cheerful, and kind to everyone who comes through the playhouse. If you see bubbles at GiGi’s Playhouse Portland, there’s a good chance that Elena is around the corner, keeping participants engaged. Read on to learn about her journey and what motivates her! 

How did you first hear about GiGi’s Playhouse? 

“I heard about GiGi’s through one of the executive board members while connecting with her about other topics surrounding special needs.” 

What excites you about volunteering with GiGi’s? 

“I am excited to meet others who share my passion of working with kids who have special needs, as well as have fun spreading acceptance and understanding. As a co-lead, I am especially thrilled to get to know individuals of all ages with Down syndrome and their families.” 

What do you think makes a strong community? 

“I think a strong community revolves around kindness and acceptance of all human beings. I do not believe a community is defined by a singular characteristic, but instead the people who make it all possible by showing up for each other.” 

Tell me about a time you were inspired by someone in your life. 

“I am most inspired by the kids I work with. I have been working with kids with special needs since I was about 13 years old and there is never a day that goes by where I am not inspired by them, whether it be a small milestone or overcoming a major obstacle.” 

What do you think of when you hear the phrase “Acceptance for All”? 

“When I hear the phrase ‘Acceptance for All,’ I think of a community that breaks through the barriers of judgment and hate. The world is a scary place, especially for people who face adversity every day. I think of this phrase as a value that I strive to uphold in my personal and professional life, spreading awareness, kindness, and acceptance.” 

Thank you for your dedication, Elena! GiGi’s Playhouse Portland is so lucky to have you.