Best of All December 2025

The highlights below are just a few of the #bestofall moments we witnessed here at GiGi’s Playhouse Quad Cities in December 2025.

Participant & Program Best of All

Earlier this year we launched a second Group Speech program for adults almost on accident. We started scrapbooking during our Achievers program, and the group enjoyed it so much that we made it a year-long activity as a program all on its own. It is Group Speech “Memory Makers.” You might ask what makes this different from the Group Speech “Coffee Club.” This program consists of memory strengthening games in addition to working on scrapbooks (memory books) twice a month. Just ask a participant to see their book and experience the joy and pride they have in their work, not to mention their family and friends who make up a majority of the pages!

“During our last meeting in December, our group was so excited about sharing pages they had completed in the books, no-one got any new work done!  The conversations were loud (in a good way), crossing the table back and forth, laughing was constantly taking place, and everyone ended up taking group selfies at the end. Talk about great communication, it was fantastic!” Ms. Ann

Volunteer Spotlight

In early December, we held a Volunteer Roundtable to gather feedback from volunteers on their experiences here at GiGi’s. While we wished we had more volunteers in attendance, those who attended were engaged, thoughtful, and eager to continue volunteering. One volunteer shared the following:

“I love volunteering here so much! It brings me so much joy each time I come.”  Lindsey

Lindsey began volunteering this fall in our Achievers and Group Speech programs, and we’re thrilled that she’s already committed to returning next year to assist with GiGi’s Kitchen for Adults.

One of the main goals for the night was for Nate, our Executive Director, to meet more volunteers and get a true feeling for what they have experienced and/or want to see moving forward.

“The evening was an open, honest, and insightful look at what we are doing well, where some improvements could be made, and the dreams that our volunteers have for GiGi’s Playhouse Quad Cities.” Nathan Bates

Playhouse Inspiration

The holidays are always such a busy time. It’s also full of excitement, love, and a little inspiration, too. As we transition from one year to the next, we always enjoy looking back on all that’s happened, and certain volunteers, events, and memories naturally stand out more than others.

Many of you know Mr. Brian. He’s been around GiGi’s for nearly 10 years. Not only is he Ms. Pam’s husband, but over the years, he has also taken on many roles, such as Santa, maintenance man, program assistant, event setup and tear-down, and even gala emcee one year. This year, he added master chef to the list.

When planning our annual holiday party, we explored several catering options, only to find they were far more expensive than expected. Mr. Brian stepped in and confidently said he could do it for less and save the Playhouse some money. He spent hours researching what we would need and where to get it, created a detailed supply list, and then Mr. Nate tackled all the shopping.

Over the course of a few days, Mr. Brian wrapped nearly 100 potatoes for baking, cooked 50 pounds of meat, and prepped all the toppings—lettuce, tomatoes, and more. He arrived at the party a little late and a little frazzled, but the result was well worth it. Partygoers raved about the delicious “taco and ‘tato bar,” and there were plenty of full bellies and compliments to go around.

After the party, Mr. Brian transported everything back to the Playhouse, unloaded it all, and then returned in the following days to handle all the necessary cleanup. His behind-the-scenes dedication helped make our holiday celebration a success, and we are incredibly grateful for all he does during the holidays and all year long. His dedication to our playhouse is a true inspiration!

📌If you missed our previous blog highlighting the holiday party and everyone who made it amazing, you can see it here.

YOU can submit your Best of All stories and moments too!

Staff typically choose these stories, but we’d love to hear from you, too! If you see or hear something worth highlighting, please let us know!

309-762-7529 or email quadcities@gigisplayhouse.org

#bestofall