Internship Success Stories

In our GiGi Professional Spring Session, five outstanding students embarked on field internships at YMCA’s Camp Winnebago and various Beef-a-Roo locations throughout Rockford. These field internships play an exceedingly important role for our students to gain experience and knowledge in the workforce and lend a helping hand to our community partnerships.  GiGi’s Playhouse Rockford greatly appreciates Camp Winnebago, Beef-a-Roo, and other businesses who understand the importance of giving our participants a chance to prove themselves in hands-on work environments. By taking a chance on the Playhouse and those we serve, these businesses are sending a “loud and clear” message of acceptance for individuals with Down syndrome in our community. They are also helping to forward our mission of inspiring and empowering those with Down syndrome to succeed in life, and we are truly grateful.

With our Spring Internships now complete, we are so proud to recognize two exemplary GiGi Professional students and share their success stories. Marty McMahon and Julia Berlage have surpassed expectations in their field internships at Beef a Roo and Camp Winnebago, respectively. As a result, they have been asked to continue at their locations as hired employees! Marty, age 22, is a kind and helpful person who is no stranger to hard work. He has a heart for service and deep respect for his country, and he aspires to serve in law enforcement or the military. In addition to starting his own lawn maintenance business (Marty’s Mighty Lawncare) several years ago, this industrious young man is always on the lookout for opportunities to grow his skillset and increase his earning potential. Julia, age 24, is a competent and dedicated young woman who always rises to the occasion. Not only is she a solid bet from an employment standpoint, but she also excels in martial arts, is proficient in sign language, and is an experienced stage performer with several theatrical productions under her belt! Julia holds herself to the highest standards, sets goals for herself, and routinely strives to be her best of all. With all of that to their credit, it is probably not surprising to note that these two also happen to be dating. That is what we call a power couple! We are very proud of Marty and Julia, and we cannot wait to watch them excel in their new positions at Beef-a-Roo and Camp Winnebago. Congrats!