Volunteer Spotlight: Claudia & Shannon

GiGi’s Kitchen and our dedicated volunteers play a crucial role in the mission of GiGi’s Playhouse. They provide invaluable support, helping to teach essential life skills and fostering a sense of community and belonging for our participants. Shannon and Claudia have been a part of GiGi’s Kitchen Teen since the beginning of the program; read below as they share their experiences and the impact GiGi’s Playhouse has had on their lives!

What inspired you to volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse?

Claudia: My professors at Sac State spoke very highly of GiGi’s, and I just knew I had to see it for myself.

Shannon: I learned about the Playhouse while at Sac State and fell in love! I wanted to give back to my community and be a part of a cause that I was passionate about.

What’s your favorite memory from volunteering at GiGi’s?

Claudia: I loved seeing all the progress each participant has made, from the knowledge they have gained, their skills, and their openness to trying new things!

Shannon: Our last class of Teens Kitchen in Spring ’24- Everyone took a chance flipping burgers. The smiles and excitement for each other were the sweetest things! Everyone was cheering for each other and so happy.

How has volunteering at GiGi’s impacted you?

Claudia: I cannot express how much GiGi’s has impacted my life. To be a small part of something so incredibly important has meant the world to me. My perspective of the world has changed for the better.”

Shannon: The time and memories I’ve made at GiGi’s have impacted me incredibly. The abundance of love, patience, kindness, and laughter here inspire me to be the best version of myself.

What do you enjoy most about working with our participants?

Claudia: I always looked forward to all the positive energy I received when walking into the Playhouse. The kids, parents, and volunteers always made my day 100% better.

Shannon: Their happiness and passion for not only the class but also for all their friends and family never fail to make me smile.

What makes GiGi’s unique to you?

Claudia: GiGi’s mission to celebrate all participants while also giving them amazing life skills is so admirable. The community is also something I’ve never seen before. I’m going to miss it so much.

Shannon: GiGi’s Playhouse isn’t just an organization; it’s a family. A family that loves hard and welcomes everyone with open arms.

Do you have a favorite program? If so, what is it?

Claudia: GiGi’s Kitchen, of course!

Shannon: GiGi’s Kitchen! I love watching the kids fall in love with cooking and grow their skills and confidence.

Everyone at GiGi’s Playhouse wishes you both the best of luck at Grad School! We are so proud of you!