Volunteer Spotlight: Spreading Smiles & Making Connections – Carlos Huerta

At GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego, it truly takes a village — and that village is made up of passionate, talented volunteers who bring their unique skills and heart to everything they do. With GiGi’s Playhouse being 99% volunteer-run, having people from all walks of life makes a huge difference. Volunteers like Carlos Huerta help bring our mission to life not only through his time, but also through his creative photography skills that help preserve the joyful moments from our events and programs.

Carlos has been (and continues to be) an amazing volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego. He has generously volunteered his time to photograph events such as Fall Fun Fest and the Valentine’s Celebration, capturing meaningful moments and memories for our families. His experience working in different aspects of the disability field gives him a natural ability to connect with participants, understand their needs, and create an environment where everyone feels seen, respected, and supported.

Carlos brings a genuine heart to everything he does. He is open to helping wherever needed and approaches every opportunity with care, kindness, and flexibility.

Carlos has a talent for capturing the joy, energy, and special moments that make GiGi’s Playhouse events so memorable, here are just a few of his snapshots!

We had a chance to connect with Carlos to hear more about his journey with GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego and what keeps him inspired as a volunteer.

How did you find GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego?

“I found about GiGi through my work at the school district. I was working with transition students focusing on vocational, leisure and social skills groups around the community. We emphasized community and culture building and connected students to various organizations, groups and programs for them to get involved. GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego was one of those programs.”

What made you want to volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse?

“Working in transition I wanted to bridge the gap between students and various programs. I saw posts in social media and was interested in seeing the type of services and opportunities were out there. Environments were this community can go socialize are important.”

What has been your favorite thing about volunteering?

“I enjoy meeting other like minded individuals who spend their time wanting to help build meaningful connections and environments were others can be seen and heard and encourage opportunities for social interaction.”

Anything else you would like to share?

“I’m grateful to be given the chance to spend time helping and empowering others and for the opportunities given to capture and share some of the projects GiGi’s has been developing through photography.”

Carlos is a wonderful example of how volunteers make a difference in ways big and small, through talent, compassion, and genuine connection. We are so grateful for the light and energy he brings to our GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego community.

Interested in volunteering or learning more about how to get involved?
Click to visit our volunteer page for more information:
👉 https://gigisplayhouse.org/sandiego/volunteer/