Best of All: How Aliya and Sam Show the Magic of GiGi’s Playhouse
At GiGi’s Playhouse Sacramento, progress isn’t just measured in milestones—it’s found in moments. A corrected letter, a confident smile, a hug that says everything. Aliya and her tutor, Sam, remind us that growth happens when patience, consistency, and genuine connection come together.
We are so proud of Aliya and the incredible progress she’s made over the past two years! Her tutor shared how far she has come, especially with writing the letter “a.” What started as a tricky little tail that made her a’s look like q’s has transformed into beautifully written letters. After weeks of practice and gentle reminders, Aliya surprised everyone by correcting her “a” all on her own without any prompting!
Now, she writes her a’s more accurately than ever, and even when she forgets, she notices and fixes them herself. This moment is just a glimpse of the many ways Aliya is growing, learning, and blossoming every day. Keep shining, Aliya!
Sam began volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse with a simple but powerful intention—to give back. After enjoying volunteer work in high school and college, life got busy and a few years passed without much community involvement. While money was tight at the time, Sam realized that time, connection, and compassion were something she could freely give.
After exploring local opportunities, GiGi’s Playhouse immediately stood out. She jumped in by shadowing cooking, fitness, and social programs before finding her perfect fit in one-on-one literacy tutoring, where she could see growth firsthand and build meaningful connections.
One of Sam’s most cherished memories happened with her participant, Aliya. During their first season together, Sam asked Aliya for a hug goodbye, but quickly reassured her that it was okay to say no.
After taking a short break due to life and work changes, Sam returned months later feeling nervous about how Aliya might react. Instead, Aliya ran straight to her, wrapped her in the biggest hug, and simply said, “missed Sam.” It was a moment Sam will never forget—and one that perfectly captures the magic of connection at GiGi’s Playhouse.
Volunteering has had a deeply positive impact on Sam’s life. No matter how tired or stressed she feels after work, spending time with Aliya completely changes her mood. Through their nearly two-year relationship, Sam has learned to slow down, be present, celebrate every win, and appreciate the small moments.
She loves how their relationship has grown from teacher and student to genuine friendship—and how GiGi’s Playhouse supports participants of all ages with flexible programs that make volunteering possible alongside a full-time job. While Sam enjoys many programs, her heart belongs to literacy tutoring, where she proudly cheers Aliya on each week and witnesses the power of consistency, patience, and love in action.
Inspired by Sam’s story? We are always looking for volunteers who are willing to give their time, talents, and heart. Whether you are interested in tutoring, programs, or special events, there is a place for you at GiGi’s Playhouse Sacramento.
Join us https://gigisplayhouse.org/sacramento/volunteer/ and experience the joy of making a difference—one connection at a time.
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