Our Team
Karen Carlson, Executive Director
Serving as the Executive Director of GiGi’s Playhouse Rockford, I now know what it means to be part of a place that lives its mission out loud!
The first time I stepped into the Playhouse, the logo tag line that reads “educate. inspire. believe.” came to life and took on new meaning. I have a background in psychology and close to three decades of professional experience in Rockford’s social service community, but I didn’t need any of that to be able to see and feel immediately that GiGi’s is a place that makes a difference every day in the lives of the individuals and families it serves.
It’s truly an honor to be part of a team that stands at the forefront of changing the world’s perception of children and adults with Down syndrome. If you haven’t seen “the magic” up close, we encourage you to stop in … whether you’re an interested community member, enthusiastic volunteer or new family to our playhouse, be prepared to open your mind and heart to those with Down syndrome and GiGi’s Playhouse Rockford!!! Feel free to reach out to me at kcarlson@gigisplayhouse.org or (815) 654-7529, ext. 211.
Stacey Bonetti, Operations Coordinator
I am a Rockford native who has a background in Administrative work. I answered an ad for Administrative help here at GiGi’s, not knowing much about Down syndrome. I have now been here since January of 2013, and my administrative duties pale in comparison with the interactions I have with the many participants of the various programs. I truly believe everything happens for a reason, and I was meant to be here…not as much for my help to run GiGi’s office, but to learn about people with disabilities and what a wonderful addition they are to our community! These people are warm, caring and wonderful and I am proud to call them my friends. GiGi’s Playhouse has given me much more than I have given it, but I believe it is a wonderful partnership between us. I am more than happy to answer any questions you may have and I can be reached at sbonetti@gigisplayhouse.org or by calling the playhouse at (815) 654-7529.
Devyn McNeany, Education Coordinator
I began my journey at GiGi's Playhouse Rockford as a volunteer when I was 13 years old and loved every moment I've spent here. GiGi's has helped me find my path and my passion in life. After volunteering at the Playhouse through high school and college, I graduated from Northern Illinois University with a degree in family social services, and I have also had extensive experience in special education. Having a special education and social work background has given me plenty of opportunities to work with and learn from various populations. Still, I have never felt the sense of community, family, and acceptance present at the Playhouse. As Education Coordinator, I hope to become a pillar of support for the families and participants that I am lucky enough to get to know during my time here. It means so much to me to be given this opportunity to learn and grow with the fantastic individuals, families, and volunteers I encounter here, and I hope I can give back at least a small portion of what I have received from my years at GiGi's. Please feel free to reach out to me at dmcneany@gigisplayhouse.org or (815) 654-7529, ext. 212.
Board of Directors
President - Penny Wirtjes
Founding Board Member
Vice-President - Nicole Morig
Client Associate, LaLoggia Investment Group of Wells Fargo Advisors
Treasurer - Ellen Poppen, CPA, CMA
EKP Solution Source
Secretary - Sarah Johnson, CFP
Financial Advisor, Luminaire Financial Group
Past President - Michael Dalke
Assistant Deputy Chief, Rockford Police Department
Fred Muehlfelder
Funeral Director, Fitzgerald Funeral Home
Thomas McMahon
Regional Financial Services Manager, WESCO Distribution, Inc.
Scott Freeman
Senior Pharmaceutical Sales Manager, Amgen, Inc.
Steve Summers
Morning Host and Brand Manager, Mid-West Family Broadcasting
Sue Arntzen
Community Supporter
Lorie Moran
Director of Food and Beverage, Hard Rock Casino Rockford