{"id":142960,"date":"2026-07-09T08:38:38","date_gmt":"2026-07-09T15:38:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/sacramento\/?p=142960"},"modified":"2026-07-09T09:57:54","modified_gmt":"2026-07-09T16:57:54","slug":"meet-the-gigis-playhouse-sacramento-team-the-people-behind-the-mission","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/sacramento\/2026\/07\/09\/meet-the-gigis-playhouse-sacramento-team-the-people-behind-the-mission\/","title":{"rendered":"Meet the GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento Team: The People Behind the Mission"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Every organization is built by people, but a community is built by those who lead with compassion, purpose, and heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento, our staff and Board of Managers are more than names and titles \u2014 they are advocates, parents, siblings, professionals, volunteers, and community members who believe in creating a world where individuals with Down syndrome are accepted, valued, and empowered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Each person brings their own unique story, experiences, and passion to GiGi\u2019s. Together, they help create a welcoming place where individuals with Down syndrome and their families can connect, learn, grow, and celebrate their achievements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Our Mission<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We make a lifetime commitment to changing lives and providing hope through the consistent delivery of FREE educational, therapeutic, and career development programs for individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the community, using a replicable playhouse model.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Our Vision<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

To see a world where individuals with Down syndrome are accepted and embraced in their families, schools, and communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Get to know the incredible people who help make GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meet Our Staff<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Missy Okelberry<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Site Manager<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Missy has always had a passion for serving others and making a positive impact in her community. Born and raised in California, Missy has called Roseville home for more than 20 years, where she and her husband, Kevin, raised their three children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Inspired by her mother\u2019s unconditional love for others and commitment to community service, Missy developed a desire to help people from an early age. After working in behavioral health, she found an opportunity to continue that passion at GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Missy is honored to help create a place where individuals with Down syndrome and their families feel supported, welcomed, and connected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Outside of GiGi\u2019s, Missy enjoys spending time in nature, traveling, and making memories with family and friends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Karen Siino<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Program & 1:1 Tutoring Coordinator<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Karen brings a unique blend of experience in technology, education, and community support to GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento. As a wife, mom of four, librarian, and paraeducator, Karen understands the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for individuals to learn, grow, and thrive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Karen is excited about the impact GiGi\u2019s programs have on individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the community. She looks forward to helping empower individuals to discover their abilities and achieve their Best of All.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Kim Francis<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Volunteer Coordinator<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Kim is a dedicated community member with a passion for service and making a difference. As a proud mother of two grown daughters, Kim has always prioritized giving back and supporting the community around her.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Her connection to GiGi\u2019s Playhouse has grown through years of volunteering and a deep commitment to creating an inclusive environment where individuals with Down syndrome and their families feel supported.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kim loves helping volunteers find meaningful ways to get involved and be part of the GiGi\u2019s mission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Meet Our Board of Managers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Our Board of Managers plays an important role in guiding the vision and growth of GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento. Each board member brings a unique perspective, personal connection, and passion for creating a more inclusive world for individuals with Down syndrome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From parents and siblings of individuals with Down syndrome to community leaders, professionals, volunteers, and self-advocates, our board is united by a shared commitment to the GiGi\u2019s mission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Get to know the people who help guide and support our Playhouse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Nicole Harrigan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Board President<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Nicole is a wife and mom of three, including her son Nic, who has T21. She is passionate about fostering acceptance and inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As an attorney with the California State Lottery, Nicole brings her professional experience and leadership skills to the board. However, she found her true passion and life\u2019s work when she became part of bringing GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento to life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nicole treasures seeing the impact GiGi\u2019s has on families, volunteers, and the community. She believes the Playhouse is a place where people find connection, acceptance, and the confidence to be exactly who they are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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April Davila<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Board Vice President<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

April is a passionate advocate, educator, and proud mom of two teens, including her son with an extra chromosome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With an MBA and a background in education, real estate, and recruiting, April brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to supporting individuals with Down syndrome. As a former teacher, she is especially passionate about helping families and communities understand the importance of inclusive education and meaningful opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

April loves sharing the GiGi\u2019s ripple effect and connecting others with the mission of GiGi\u2019s Playhouse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Catherine \u201cCathie\u201d Conner<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Board Treasurer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Cathie brings a lifelong passion for community service and advocacy to GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento. She is a wife, mom, business owner, and proud sister of an individual with Down syndrome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helping raise her brother, A.J., gave Cathie a deep appreciation for the gifts, abilities, and contributions of individuals with Down syndrome. Her personal connection and professional experience allow her to support the mission in a meaningful way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cathie is honored to help provide a place where individuals and families feel welcomed, supported, and celebrated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Ashley Lasiter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Secretary<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Ashley is a wife, full-time working mom of two girls, and passionate advocate for the Down syndrome community. She holds a degree in Civil Engineering and brings a thoughtful, analytical approach to everything she does.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Her daughter Brooke has taught her that not everything can be planned \u2014 and that sometimes the greatest moments come from embracing the unexpected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ashley loves the GiGi\u2019s Playhouse philosophy of \u201cBest of All\u201d and believes in meeting each person where they are while supporting them in reaching their goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Nicole Deters<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Board Member<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Nicole is a wife and mother of three boys, including her youngest son, Jaydon, who was diagnosed with Down syndrome in 2014. After Jaydon\u2019s diagnosis, advocacy became a major part of Nicole\u2019s life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With a background in healthcare as a care coordinator supervisor, medical assistant, and caregiver, Nicole brings compassion, experience, and a deep understanding of supporting individuals and families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When Nicole discovered GiGi\u2019s Playhouse, she immediately knew it was a place where her family belonged \u2014 a community built on acceptance, kindness, and connection. In addition to serving on the board, Nicole supports GiGi\u2019s through social media and marketing efforts, helping share the mission and impact of the Playhouse with the community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Etty Goldstein<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Board Member<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Etty is a certified public accountant who works as a financial auditor specializing in nonprofit organizations. Originally from Venezuela, Etty brings a passion for community service and advocacy to everything she does.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She is honored to be part of GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento and appreciates the opportunity to help deliver the mission while bringing the community together in support of individuals with Down syndrome and their families.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Josh Hatfield<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Board Member<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Josh is a husband, father of three, and longtime community volunteer with a passion for serving others. With more than 25 years of experience in the construction industry, Josh brings leadership, relationship-building, and a commitment to helping people to his role at GiGi\u2019s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His passion for the Down syndrome community was inspired through personal connections, including his aunt with special needs and his family friend Lance, who encouraged him to become involved with GiGi\u2019s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Josh is also a coach with Northern California Special Olympics and is honored to be part of a community that creates opportunities for individuals of all abilities.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Shannon Owens<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Board Member & Self-Advocate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Shannon brings an important and powerful perspective to the GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento Board as a self-advocate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shannon has taught her family so much about life, love, and acceptance. She enjoys music, reading, swimming, boating, golf, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through her involvement with Special Olympics and GiGi\u2019s programs including GiGiFIT, Fantastic Friends, and GiGi\u2019s Kitchen, Shannon has built friendships, confidence, and a strong voice for herself and others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She is excited for the opportunity to advocate for herself and her friends while helping shape the future of GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Holly Siino<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Board Member<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Holly has been passionate about advocating for individuals with Down syndrome since her sister Mia was born. GiGi\u2019s Playhouse became a place where she could turn that passion into action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With a background in post-secondary and adult education, Holly brings experience, dedication, and a love for helping others grow. She is also involved with Special Olympics as an event staff member and coach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Holly continues to be inspired by the GiGi\u2019s community and looks forward to helping create more opportunities for individuals and families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Jill Petrarca<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Board Member<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

After 37 years in the insurance industry, Jill discovered GiGi\u2019s Playhouse through volunteering with the Adult Kitchen program. What started as a volunteer opportunity quickly became a meaningful connection to the mission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jill is passionate about sharing the incredible work GiGi\u2019s does and helping spread acceptance, generosity, and kindness throughout the community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Jen Matulich<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Board Member<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Jen brings extensive experience in business development, marketing, and community leadership to GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With more than 20 years of experience in relationship management, sales, and marketing, Jen is passionate about connecting people and supporting organizations that create meaningful change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She is proud to serve GiGi\u2019s Playhouse and contribute to the continued growth and impact of the organization.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Brandon Fullecido<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Board Member<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a Sacramento native, Brandon has a deep commitment to community, service, and personal growth. His involvement with GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento has strengthened his passion for creating meaningful impact and supporting mission-driven work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Outside of his professional life, Brandon is a third-degree black belt in Kenpo Karate. Martial arts has shaped his leadership style through discipline, respect, resilience, and accountability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brandon is excited to continue working alongside the GiGi\u2019s community to help create lasting change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Brooke Jackson<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Board Member Emeritus<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brooke has been a passionate advocate for individuals with Down syndrome and believes in creating a world where everyone feels loved, accepted, and capable of achieving anything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A graduate of the University of Florida, where she played basketball and earned her degree in production, Brooke has been part of the GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento journey from the beginning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She is grateful for the opportunity to work alongside a dedicated group of advocates and help bring the GiGi\u2019s mission to the Sacramento community.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Our Team – Sacramento<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Together, We Are Building a More Inclusive World<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Behind every program, friendship, celebration, and milestone at GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento are the people who make our mission possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We are incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated group of staff, Board of Managers, volunteers, families, and community partners surrounding our Playhouse. Each person brings their own unique experiences, talents, and passion that help strengthen our community and bring our mission to life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Together, we continue creating a place where individuals with Down syndrome are welcomed, supported, and empowered to achieve their Best of All.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At GiGi\u2019s Playhouse, we believe in living our mission every day:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Be Accepting. Be Generous. Be Kind.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Want to learn more about GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento, our FREE programs, upcoming events, and ways to get involved?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit our website and join our community today! GiGi’s Playhouse Sacramento | Down Syndrome Achievement Center<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Every organization is built by people, but a community is built by those who lead with compassion, purpose, and heart. At GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Sacramento, our staff and Board of Managers are more than names and titles \u2014 they are advocates, parents, siblings, professionals, volunteers, and community members who believe in creating a world where individuals…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2021,"featured_media":142994,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[23,52,21,22],"class_list":["post-142960","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized","tag-family","tag-gigis-playhouse-sacramento","tag-sacramento","tag-volunteer-story"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/sacramento\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/142960","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/sacramento\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/sacramento\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/sacramento\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2021"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/sacramento\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=142960"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/sacramento\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/142960\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/sacramento\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/142994"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/sacramento\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=142960"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/sacramento\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=142960"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/sacramento\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=142960"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}