Volunteer Spotlight – Where there is passion there comes great volunteers!
As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) you are tasked with getting to know the person you support to provide the upmost quality of care which in tern increases quality of life. Meet Demi, an amazing DSP and valued GiGi’s volunteer.
We asked Demi to share a bit about her journey into GiGi’s volunteerism and here is what she offered:
“Wow I am so honored! Thank you so much for this, I am thrilled to be a part of your organization and all you do at Gigis! – Demi
- How did you find out about GiGi’s Playhouse?
I have had the pleasure of having Noah, a person living with Down syndrome, in my life over the last 8 years and as he has gotten older I began exploring new resources and ways to meet other people with Down syndrome in our area. We found GiGi’s last year and attend their fitness with friends program once a week among other events. We have met so many amazing friends and look forward to our weekly nights at GiGi’s. - What made you want to volunteer?
I have a personal passion for helping people with special needs and have a degree in special education. Although I did not pursue a career in this field, I feel it on my heart to serve others who experience disability in whatever form I can. GiGi’s offers so many ways to volunteer and opportunities to connect with other people living with Down syndrome. Noah is a very special person in my life and I love that GiGi’s offers something we can do together. - What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
GiGi’s is full of so many infectious and wonderful people. My favorite part is the joyful interactions I have with the participants and other volunteers and all of the laughter and happiness that ensues every single event. - What do you think we could improve on?
I would love to see more resources for individuals who are non-verbal. - Anything else you would like to add?
Through my own non-profit, Team Quinn, I have had the opportunity to connect with a few participants on a more personal level through surfing.
Team Quinn is a local non-profit serving people with disabilities and their families. It was inspired by Quinn Waitley, @quinn_cess, and her passion for surfing ~ Prone Assist Surfer USA. Learn more about Team Quinn by visiting https://TeamQuinnSurf.org/
Clark, Kelsey, Jack, Mateo and a few others from GiGi’s have attended our adaptive surf events recently and our friends and volunteers have absolutely fallen in love with them. Seeing our community grow in tandem with GiGi’s and seeing my own friends build connections and friendships is so heartwarming. One of my favorite moments was hearing that Kelsey went and bought a wetsuit after one of our events and it has been so awesome to see her love of surfing grow. She sparks joy and excitement in us all. Kelsey is a beautiful person full of big smiles and no fear and I am so excited to continue surfing and spending time together! “
Partnerships and connections occur everyday and blossom into beautiful working relationships all towards a common goal of Acceptance for All!
If you are interested in making a meaningful impact by volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego, please visit the link below or email sandiego@gigisplayhouse.org
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