Love Our Team – Michael & Kate

Michael and Kate are not only adult participants of GiGi’s programming they also serve as self advocates on our board and often as ambassadors providing tours and information to visitors at the Playhouse. Michael and Kate have both been involved with programming since the beginning (2011).

Michael

Michael graduated from Moline High School in 2010 and worked at Hy Vee for several years. He likes coming to GiGi’s to be with his friends. We’re pretty sure his favorite program is GiGi’s Kitchen.

Michael joined the board as a self advocate in 2022 and he loves to greet visitors and show them around the Playhouse.

Fun fact about Michael: “I love doing plants, puzzles, and taking care of my dog.”

Michael often helps raise money for GiGi’s with an annual plant sale. He finds and decorate pots, adds beautiful flowers to them, and nurtures them prior to selling them. He’s also known for sharing vegetables from his garden with others at the Playhouse. He’s truly got a green thumb.

We’re very surprised that Michael didn’t mention his love for racing in his interview. He enjoys watching NASCAR. If you see Michael, this is a great topic to bring up as he loves to talk about it.

#NASCAR

Kate

Kate will tell you she loves GiGi’s Playhouse! “You will feel comfortable and at home at GiGi’s because there’s no place better.”

Kate is very proud to serve on our board and has this to say about her time at GiGi’s:

“Not only do I get to be involved on the board but I love getting to know new people and making new friends. This gives me the feeling that I belong and fit in and that’s why being a part of GiGi’s Playhouse makes me feel so loved.”

Fun fact about Kate: “I enjoy having fun with my friends and enjoying life, even though I love singing so much, I really do love living my life.”

Kate dreams of singing and talking to groups about the importance of being kind to others. She has been hurt by bullying and does not want anyone else to face that pain.

#AMERICASGOTTALENT