We’re thrilled that you’re considering joining our team of passionate volunteers! Our volunteers are the heartbeat of GiGi’s Playhouse Sacramento, infusing our programs with energy, expertise, and compassion. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s a place for you to make a meaningful impact at GiGi’s. From running programs to lending a hand at events, your talent and time can help us keep our mission alive: providing vibrant, educational, and – most importantly – FREE programs for our families. Join us in spreading joy and empowerment – let’s make a difference together!
Types of Volunteer Opportunities
Board of Managers & Committees
Board Members: We're on the lookout for community leaders with a natural knack for teamwork, a passion for our mission to change the way the world views Down syndrome, and the ability to leverage their connections to benefit our Playhouse. The board plays a pivotal role in ensuring our Playhouse’s long-term success and sustainability. This commitment spans 2 years, with a minimum commitment of 5 hours per month. All board members are expected to either hold an executive position (President, Vice President, Treasurer, or Secretary) or serve on a committee. Join us in making a lasting difference!
**Current Committee Needs
Development and Fundraising Committee: Are you a natural storyteller with a sales background, or simply someone who loves connecting with people? Our fundraising committee is the driving force behind our financial success, crafting and executing strategic plans to secure funding through events, grants, donations, and campaigns. From identifying major donor opportunities to crafting compelling grant proposals and ensuring proper donor stewardship, this team makes our mission possible.
Program Committee: With an extensive roster of potential programs, this committee plays a pivotal role in shaping our offerings. From defining program lineups to recruiting and training volunteers, they ensure our programs are impactful and accessible to all.
Outreach Committee: Build bridges within the community! This committee cultivates relationships with schools, therapy centers, medical professionals, and local businesses to spread the word about GiGi's Playhouse Sacramento, amplifying our reach and impact.
Events Committees: Let's throw unforgettable parties for a cause! The Events Committees are the masterminds behind our fundraising events, handling logistics, promotion, sponsorships, and creating memorable experiences for our guests. With a strong emphasis on the months leading up to each event, this short-term commitment ensures smooth execution and maximum impact.
Additional Committees
Marketing Committee: Execute communications to families, donors, and community members including social media, monthly e-newsletter, periodic blog posts, and content updates to website, all using GiGi’s Playhouse’s standardized templates and tools. Also seeks ways to engage with the local media to promote GiGi’s Playhouse Sacramento. Specialized technology experience not required.
Finance Committee: Responsible for ensuring the financial health of the Playhouse. The finance committee helps build budgets, helps ensure the whole board understands the financial health of the organization, and establishes the bank relationship. NOTE: The national office manages all bookkeeping, reconciling funds, and entering transactions into financial systems.
Other Volunteer Needs
You don’t need to be on the board or on a committee to help support our efforts! There are many ways to help for a day here and there or for a week or two of intense needs. Here are some examples:
Events:
Fundraisers/Sponsorships: Help secure donations for the events by reaching out to organizations in the community, asking for sponsorship and donations.
Decorations: Research and secure rentals needed for the event.
Food and Beverage: Research and secure food and beverage donations.
Day-Of Volunteers: Helping with registration and other activities.
Silent auction items: Help secure gifts cards, experiences, and other goods and services that would make great silent auction or raffle items.
Programs:
Program Leaders: Program Leaders play an integral role within GiGi’s Playhouse Programs – to facilitate educational and therapeutic skill development activities and connect with families. It is preferred that the Program Leader has advanced education and/or training in developmental therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, behavioral therapy, social work, special education, speech-language therapy, music, dance, art, or a related field. We provide sample lesson plans, program guides, and a host of resources to help support your success! Minimum commitment is 1 session (10-12 weeks), with programs occurring weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.
Program Volunteers: Assisting the program lead, the program volunteers help support program execution in partnership with the program leader, by welcoming families, facilitating activities, supporting participants’ success, tracking outcomes, and connecting with families. Minimum commitment for 1 session (10-12 weeks), with programs occurring weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.
Literacy and Math Tutors: This is an exciting opportunity to help those with Down syndrome learn reading or math skills! Become a trained Literacy Tutor, commit to a weekly 1 hour session (1.5 with prep time) for 15 weeks, starting the week of January 30th. You will work directly with the family of the child you are tutoring to determine when you will meet for your session each week. Apply here.