GiGi’s Youth Board Stepping Up: Volunteer Spotlight – Ava

Youth Board Stepping Up – Meet Ava

The San Diego Generation G Youth Board has grown immensely in the last year and with that has come many new bright youth, ready to put the work in and raise the much needed awareness for their GiGi’s community.

One of these amazing Youth Board Member is Ava, a high school senior who has stepped into the roll as Youth Board Secretary. In this position she is not only able to work with the rest of her peers but work closely with Laura Bellizzi, who is the Youth Board Facilitator/GiGi’s Board Fundraising and development chair. This unique work relationship allows Ava to strengthen her reporting/documenting skills as well as how to present to a wider audience.

Laura, Youth Board Facilitator adds,

“Ava is a kind and compassionate volunteer and an integral member of the youth board executive council. When volunteering with participants, she is nurturing, patient, and supportive. Through her role as Youth Board Secretary, she works diligently behind the scenes to record and communicate important information. She’s always willing to go above and beyond to support the Youth Board and ensure the success of participants!“

Some contributions Ava has made:

• Contributing to the website blog
• Writing thank you notes
• Updating donor wall

We asked Ava to share some incite on her involvement with GiGi’s and here’s what she had to share:

1. How did you find GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego?

I found GiGi’s Playhouse through Luke, our youth board president. I’m eternally grateful to him.

• We absolutely love hearing volunteers sharing our mission and encouraging others to volunteer

2. What made you want to volunteer?

I wanted to volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse because of its mission to support individuals with Down syndrome and their families. I admire the inclusive environment and wanted to contribute to making a positive impact in my community.

• Acceptance for All is what we strive for

3. What is your favorite part about volunteering?

My favorite aspect is building relationships with the participants and seeing their confidence grow. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of their journey and witness the joy and excitement they bring to every activity.

• Such a key aspect of any non-profit, building relationships and encouraging growth

4. What is your favorite part of GiGi’s?

My favorite part is the sense of community and acceptance. Everyone feels valued and celebrated, which makes it a special place to be.

• We couldn’t agree with her more

5. Do you think it is important for high school students to explore the world of volunteering and why?

Yes, volunteering teaches responsibility, empathy, and teamwork. It allows students to give back, broaden their perspective, and develop skills they might not learn in school. It’s also a great way to make connections and discover new passions.

6. What do you think we could improve upon?

It would be great to expand outreach efforts to involve more high school and college students.

7. Anything else you would like to share?

Volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse has been a transformative experience. I’ve learned so much about inclusion and resilience, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of this incredible organization.

GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego is truly blessed with such young bright volunteers such as Ava. If you would like to learn more or volunteer as a youth please check out:

https://gigisplayhouse.org/sandiego/generation-g-youth-board/