Finding Strength, Joy, and Confidence at GiGiFIT

High fives, positive vibes, and personal best achievements! If this sounds like a fun way to spend an hour, then come join us at the GiGiFIT Kids class! Whether you’re cheering someone on, getting a workout yourself, or laughing through a round of jumping jacks, every session is packed with energy, encouragement, and connection.

GiGiFIT Kids is for our school age friends who love fitness and connecting with their peers. The program focuses on helping individuals improve their strength, balance, coordination, peer interaction and to increase their love of fitness!

We (Shonda and Cam) first discovered GiGi’s Playhouse through our Mom/Son volunteer program, Young Men’s Service League. Cam was immediately drawn to GiGi’s because the programs sounded fun, active, and full of opportunities to make personal connections. I was drawn in for a deeper, more emotional reason—volunteering at GiGi’s felt like a way to honor the memory of my late mother, who spent her life working with adults with disabilities through an employment and support program. What started as a way to give back quickly became something more—a community, a purpose, and a shared passion.

Now, two years later, this journey has blown away our initial expectations.

Cam found his stride almost instantly. The fitness class was a natural match—he thrives in the high-energy environment and lights up when he’s cheering on his friends. Whether it’s counting reps, demonstrating stretches, or offering a high-five after a tough round, Cam brings motivation and joy to every class. He’s learned that real progress doesn’t happen overnight, but with consistency, encouragement, and a little grit, big gains are made. He loves celebrating with his friends as they push beyond their comfort zones—planking longer, jumping farther, marching with more confidence. Seeing their pride is contagious, and knowing he plays a role in that growth means everything. The laughter and inside jokes shared along the way? That’s just the cherry on top.

Meanwhile, I have found joy in the warmth and welcoming spirit of the GiGi’s community. From the very first day, I felt embraced—not just as a volunteer, but as part of the GiGi’s family. Watching Cam grow into a compassionate, confident leader has been one of the most rewarding parts of this experience. I’ve seen him stretch himself, step up, and lead with heart. For me, volunteering isn’t just about helping others—it’s about being inspired. The kids in the fitness class show up ready to work, but they also show up ready to smile, laugh, and support one another. They remind me every week that strength comes in many forms and that challenges are best tackled together. Plus, thanks to the GIGIFIT class, I’m guaranteed to hit my 12,000-step goal each Wednesday—and have a blast doing it!

There’s something magical that happens when people come together with a shared purpose, a little sweat, and a lot of heart. GiGiFIT is more than a workout—it’s a celebration of effort, growth, and community. As the kids love to say in class… yeah, baby!

Shonda and Cam