3 Outgoing Board Members – Thank You!

Sadly, with the new year, we’re saying goodbye to 3 of our long time board members. These 3 have served many years and in several roles.  As a medical professional serving new parents, a sibling, and a parent, they all had their very own reasons why they choose GiGi’s. They all brought their unique talents and skills to the table to help achieve the GiGi’s mission of changing the way the world views Down syndrome and to send a global message of acceptance for all. They will all be missed and we wish them nothing but the best. Please help us thank the following for all they’ve done!

Briana Barclay, MD

Briana is the longest-serving board member. She has been part of the board since 2012. She has served as the Secretary of the board and sat on multiple committees during her time with us. As the mom of three growing boys and a medical provider in the community, she is a busy person but always found time in her schedule to attend board meetings. She’s most recently served on our COVID 19 Committee.  She was also awarded the Advocate of the Year at our annual gala back in 2019. Being a medical provider she sees new parents that are given the Down syndrome diagnosis. She always advocates for them and shares information about GiGi’s too. Thank you Briana for all you’ve done over the years.

Tim Gulbranson

During Tim’s time with GiGi’s, he served as a General Board Member, the Vice President, President, and Past President.

Tim had this to say about his time with GiGi’s:

I spent nearly five years on the Board of Managers at GiGi’s Playhouse – Quad Cities, and I could not have asked for a more enjoyable and fulfilling experience.  GiGi’s Playhouse has been a big part of my family’s life, as I have an adult brother with Down syndrome who has been involved in GiGi’s programs since childhood.  I joined the Board to give back to an organization that had given so much to my family, but what I received in return was much more than what I gave.  The participants, families, volunteers, and fellow Board members at GiGi’s Playhouse are some of the most welcoming, enjoyable, and kind people I have ever met.  While I am stepping away from the Board to allow other individuals to serve, I will continue to attend events and be involved where needed.  I want to thank all my friends at GiGi’s for their love and support and would encourage anyone who is interested in joining a wonderful, worthwhile, and fulfilling cause to seek information about becoming a member of the Board, committee, or volunteer!

Tim is planning to continue volunteering as part of the Gala Planning Committee and the Fundraising Committee.

Nathan Bates

During Nathan’s 4 years with GiGi’s, he served as a General Board Member and Treasurer.

Nathan had this to say:

Being on the board at GiGi’s Playhouse Quad Cities is one of the best things that I’ve done.  I’ve been given a really great opportunity to advocate for my son, his friends, and all of the amazing participants and their families.  I’ve enjoyed being a part of committees, serving as treasurer, and attending conferences, programming, and fundraising events.  To be able to give input on programs in their beginning approval stages, to the rollout, to then hear success stories that come from it, is an amazing thing to witness and be a part of.  On top of that, the group of board members are an amazing group of people, and it is inspiring to be part of a group that tries to do so much for individuals with Down syndrome.

Thank you, Briana, Tim, and Nathan!

Please don’t be strangers. We hope to see you at programs and events. 

A current list of GiGi’s Playhouse Quad Cities Board Members and Staff can be seen here.

The Board meets monthly, is responsible for fundraising, serving on committees, and making decisions related to the Playhouse operations.

If you or someone you know might be interested in serving on the Board here at GiGi’s Playhouse Quad Cities, please contact the Playhouse for additional information 309-762-PLAY (7529) or volunteerquadcities@gigisplayhouse.org.