Participant Spotlight – The Best Ever First Tutoring Session

Letter from Frankie's mom.

“We are incredibly thankful to GiGi’s for the opportunity to have Frankie experience tutoring for the first time. Initially, as parents, we were hesitant due to concerns about his behavior, but he truly amazed us with his positive attitude and behavior. It was clear he felt comfortable with his tutor, Malia.

We also noticed significant improvements in his phonics and pronunciation, which was especially meaningful as it had been a while since he made any sounds. What brought us the most joy was seeing Frankie leave each session with a big smile on his face.

Thank you, Malia, for your professionalism, and thank you, GiGi’s, for the opportunities you provide for our kids.” Sonia, Frankie’s Mom

Frankie at Fantastic Friends - karaoke.
Frankie at Amigos de GiGi's - Hispanic family event.

“Ever since I started volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse I have felt nothing but welcomed. I have had the amazing opportunity to work with Frankie as a literacy tutor and it has been a highlight of my summer. He is a great kid and I really enjoy watching him grow and learn. He always gives me his best and I always want to give that back to him in return. I am very grateful to GiGi’s Playhouse for giving me this opportunity and experience and I am so excited to see what the future holds for Frankie!” Malia, Frankie’s tutor.

We also asked Malia the following questions:

1. How did you hear about GiGi’s Playhouse/GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego?
I heard about GiGi’s Playhouse through a mentor I had at Rady Children’s Hospital who recommended places for me to volunteer at. GiGi’s Playhouse was one of them and after telling me about it I was really interested in the program and the work that they do for individuals with Down syndrome and their families, and I wanted to get involved. 

2. What inspired you to volunteer?  
I have always wanted to give back to my community and have worked with kids for a while now. I really enjoy seeing the change and growth in them from all aspects and I wanted to be a hands-on contributor to their success. 

3. What is your favorite thing about GiGi’s Playhouse?  
My favorite thing about GiGi’s Playhouse is definitely all the kind people I come across at the Playhouse every time I’m there! Everyone is always so welcoming and I really enjoy the positive atmosphere.

4. What would you like us to incorporate or do?  
I feel like not a lot of people know of GiGi’s Playhouse and we should spread the word about it more! It is truly an amazing nonprofit that I feel a lot of people would love to be a part of. 

We are so happy for the experience that Frankie had with his tutor Malia and we are grateful to have found such a wonderful tutor like Malia.

For more information about our Tutoring programs and other programs, visit us at:

#gigissandiego #tutoring #gigisandiego #volunteering #collaboration #spanishspeaking #freeprograms

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