Become a Volunteer!

Over 450,000 individuals with Down syndrome currently live in the United States, and including affected parents and siblings, that’s two million people who face this diagnosis every day. There is an urgent need to improve the lives of those with Down syndrome and those touched by it. And because of fear and lack of understanding, the pregnancy termination rate is at a shocking 75-80%. GiGi’s Playhouse is on a mission to change the way the world sees Down syndrome and send a global message of acceptance for all. With nothing else like this in the United States or the world, this incredible organization is changing lives daily and growing at a very rapid pace due to the growing need worldwide.

There are currently 35 locations across the United States and Mexico and we are proud to say that San Diego will be the first to open its doors in California! GiGi’s Playhouse is a volunteer-run organization and we rely on the skill and dedication of volunteers of various levels of expertise to keep our programs vibrant, educational, purposeful, fun and free. Since the first Playhouse opened in 2003, GiGi’s Playhouse programs have always been free for our families.  Parents, family members, clinicians, and individuals who believe in the GiGi’s Playhouse mission act as volunteers in GiGi’s Playhouse programs, events, administrative offices, and on our Board of Members.                               

Sign up to be a volunteer!

How can you help? Where do you see yourself?

Outreach Committee:

• Increase awareness about Down syndrome and the programs available at GiGi’s Playhouse
• Define annual outreach plan
• Expand base of member families
• Build relationships with schools, therapy centers, medical professionals, community organizations, local businesses, etc. to spread the word about GiGi’s
• Increase awareness about Down syndrome and the programs available at GiGi’s Playhouse 

Communications Committee:

• Create all required promotional material (e.g., flyers) for events and programs, in collaboration with the respective committees
• Execute all formal communications to parents, volunteers and donors, including e-newsletters, Facebook posts, mail newsletters, blog posts, etc.
• Maintain the website
• Market all programs and events as needed by the other committees
• Manage all media interactions, PR, etc.

Fundraising Committee:

• Define annual fundraising plan, including target % for grants, events, individual donations, etc.
• Expand base of donors and potential donors
• Develop strategies and tactics to achieve the above targets
• Research, write and follow-up on grants
• Define any fundraising events

Events Committee:

• Plan all events in the playhouse, including scheduling, food, activities and setup/cleanup
• Assign an Event Chair for each fundraising event

Finance Committee

• Ensure Playhouse assets and donations are used effectively
• Build and Propose Budgets
• Review financial position and trends on a regular basis

Temporary Building Committee:

• Ensure the Playhouse is ready to open by the Grand Opening date
• Secure exterior signage (must be approved by INC staff)
• Review all GiGi’s Playhouse facility and branding guidelines and ensure all requirements are met
• Communicate the facility-related wish list of furnishings, service needs, decorating needs, etc., securing all needed items
• Oversee all build-out, decorating and furnishings

CLICK HERE TO RSVP TO ONE OF OUR VOLUNTEER ORIENTATIONS 

***February 22nd from 7:00pm-8:30pm or March 3rd from 3:00pm-4:30pm***