Celebrating Intern Appreciation Week: Honoring Charlie, Jocelyn, Jenalyn & Elizabeth

At GiGi’s Playhouse, we believe that every act of service—no matter how big or small—contributes to something truly meaningful. That belief rings especially true during Intern Appreciation Week, when we pause to recognize the dedicated individuals who go above and beyond to support our mission of acceptance and achievement for individuals with Down syndrome. This year, we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on four extraordinary interns and volunteers whose contributions have made a lasting impact on our community: Charlie, Jocelyn, Jenalyn, and Elizabeth.

Charlie & Jocelyn: Leaders and Learners

From day one, Charlie and Jocelyn jumped in with open hearts and helping hands. Their internships at GiGi’s Playhouse were marked by a strong sense of responsibility, creativity, and enthusiasm that elevated every program they were a part of. Whether supporting our early learners or assisting our teens and adults in fitness and social programs, Charlie consistently created a welcoming environment rooted in patience and encouragement.

Jocelyn brought a spark of joy and a deep sense of empathy to her work. She was a natural leader in programs, engaging participants with warmth and creativity. From organizing hands-on learning activities to ensuring families felt seen and supported, Jocelyn’s attention to detail and love for this work was evident in everything she did.

Together, Charlie and Jocelyn helped bring consistency and energy to our programming, and we are so grateful for their dedication.

Jenalyn & Elizabeth: Thoughtful Connectors Behind the Scenes

While Charlie and Jocelyn brought their magic to the forefront of our programming, two more shining stars quietly made a difference in their own unique way. Jenalyn and Elizabeth have become integral to our mission by taking on a special and deeply meaningful role: writing cards.

Every Thursday, Jenalyn comes in to write personalized birthday cards for our participants. Her thoughtful words and consistent presence have helped ensure that everyone who is a part of GiGi’s Playhouse feels celebrated and appreciated. On Tuesdays, Elizabeth writes thank you notes to our donors. Together, Jenalyn and Elizabeth help us create a culture of gratitude and connection. It’s easy to underestimate the power of a handwritten note, but these gestures build bridges, lift spirits, and deepen the bonds we share with one another.

Why Interns Matter

Intern Appreciation Week gives us a beautiful opportunity to step back and recognize the individuals who help us keep everything moving forward. They are learners and leaders, cheerleaders and change makers, and their work-seen and unseen-is vital to the success of GiGi’s Playhouse.

To Charlie, Jocelyn, Jenalyn, and Elizabeth: thank you. Thank you for your time, your talents, and the many ways you’ve contributed to our community. Your presence has made us better, stronger, and more connected. We are incredibly grateful for all you’ve done!