Volunteer Spotlight – Mara

This month we would like to recognize Mara as our Volunteer Spotlight! She has been volunteering here at the Playhouse since last fall. She is originally from Rockford, IL but is currently living n Davenport, IA. She is a Junior at St. Ambrose University with plans to be a physical therapist.

How did you hear about GiGi’s Playhouse?

The first time I heard about GiGi’s Playhouse was when the Rockford location opened by my house. I wanted to get involved, but I never had the time to get involved before college!

Why did you choose GiGi’s as a place to volunteer?

I had a volunteer requirement for one of my psychology courses last year and as soon as I heard there was a Playhouse in the Quad Cities I decided that’s where I wanted to volunteer since I finally had the opportunity! Even after the class was over, I knew that I was going to stick around. This year, my roommates and I have chosen the theme “Generation G” for our house, which we hope to spread across our campus.

What has your experience been here at the Playhouse?

My experience at the Playhouse has been nothing short of amazing! From the moment I walked through the doors of the Playhouse, I felt at home. The relationships that I have built with everyone at GiGi’s are unlike any others and the best part of my week is anytime I know I’m coming to GiGi’s.

What do you want others to know about volunteering at the Playhouse?

I honestly believe that there is something for everyone to do at GiGi’s! There are so many opportunities to get involved with, that can work with your schedule. Spending time with friends at the Playhouse doesn’t feel like volunteering, but more like hanging out with good friends! Once you get involved, you’ll want to keep coming back!

Tell us about your favorite moment/experience while volunteering. 

There have been so many amazing moments through the past year that I’ve been involved with GiGi’s, so it is hard to pick just one! However, I think that right now my favorite memory would have to be from just last week. My roommates and I hosted the Fantastic Friends program at our house for a pizza party, and then we went to a basketball game here on campus. We threw out t-shirts at half-time and took pictures with our Fighting Bee mascot! Everyone had a great time, and it was awesome to have our friends from GiGi’s on campus and at our house. Some of our friends even started planning a pajama and movie party at our house and coming back to campus for a volleyball game!

We look forward to having Mara and her friends here at the Playhouse as long they’re in the area and their schedules allow.

If you would like to know more about volunteering at the Playhouse visit gigisplayhouse.org/quadcities.