Welcome, Summer 2026 Volunteer Interns!

This summer, we’re excited to welcome three new interns to GiGi’s Playhouse Quad Cities from Augustana College, each studying a different field!

To help everyone get to know them better, we asked each intern to share a photo and a short bio, including what they’re most looking forward to as part of the GiGi’s Playhouse Quad Cities community.

We can’t wait for you to meet them and experience the energy, passion, and fresh perspectives they’re bringing to our Playhouse. Please introduce yourself to them and welcome them to the team!

Alayna

“Hi, my name is Alayna Ickert, and I am a senior at Augustana College, where I am majoring in Psychology. I am excited to be interning at GiGi’s Playhouse this summer because I enjoy working with others and being involved in programs that make a positive difference in people’s lives. Through this internship, I hope to learn more about supporting individuals with Down syndrome, gain hands-on experience, and grow both personally and professionally. I am excited to continue meeting new people, learning from the GiGi’s community, and being part of an organization that encourages confidence, growth, and inclusion.”

Alayna is tutoring and assisting with Achievers, Yoga, Kitchen for teens, and will also assist with Destination Discover: First Aid & Hygiene.  

Jenna

“Hi, my name is Jenna Mullany, and I am a rising Senior at Augustana College, double-majoring in Communication Studies and Public Health. What drew me to GiGi’s was the positive atmosphere of people who want the best for others. Everyone is so kind and understanding, which makes this organization perfect for people of every age to learn and grow. I am excited to get to know everyone more and help them achieve their goals!”

Jenna is tutoring, assisting with Achievers, Yoga, Kitchen for teens and the 2^nd Saturday of the month programs.

Ryan

“Hello! My name is Ryan Sondgeroth. I am a rising Junior at Augustana College, pursuing a major in Political Science with minors in Theatre and Nonprofit Leadership Development. I am so beyond happy to be spending my summer with GiGi’s and am excited to get first-hand experience while helping to fulfill the GiGi’s Playhouse mission.”

Ryan is working closely with Nate & Pam on donor development and marketing. An interesting fact about Ryan is that his family has been friends with our Executive Director & our Program/Volunteer Coordinator for many years.

We are truly thankful for our partnership with the local universities that encourage their students to get involved here at GiGi’s. We rely on volunteers for the majority of our programs, and students need that experience, which makes it a perfect partnership.

If you or someone you know may be interested in volunteering, please visit our volunteer webpage to learn more!

To learn more about the programs that these interns are volunteering to lead or assist with, visit our website calendar.