Volunteer Spotlight

My name is Karla Guevara and I am an intern working on graduating in Spring 2023 with a degree in Public Health at the University of Houston. When it came to choosing an internship site, I chose GiGi’s Playhouse Sugar Land because being here is a valuable and meaningful experience that allows me to learn about the challenges and achievements of individuals with Down syndrome while allowing me to contribute to promoting their inclusion and success. I also chose to intern here because I have family members who are intellectually and physically disabled, so being here allows me to contribute to the community that has directly impacted my family, and also provides me with an opportunity to gain valuable experience and skills in a field that aligns with my personal and professional interests.

This Spring, I spend time leading and assisting in GiGi’s Kitchen, GiGiFIT, and GiGi Art. I also assist in LMNOP and Destination Discovery every Friday. Here, the participants get to learn essential cooking skills and learn about health, hygiene, and healthy habits while being able to express themselves in a healthy and safe environment.

While being here, I’ve learned about the successes and challenges faced by individuals with Down syndrome, their unique abilities and strengths, and the various ways to promote their inclusion and success in society. One of my favorite experiences that I’ve had here would be the Valentine’s Day party. I got to spend time and meet new friends from GiGi’s while interacting in games and activities with them.

In my free time, I enjoy playing video games, playing cards, and reading. I love cats, cars, and food. After graduating, I aspire to go to nursing school to become a Nurse Practioner

 and obtain my Ph.D. in Public Health all while devoting my knowledge and experience  continuing research. My advanced research abilities, love of clinical research and medicine, along with my academic prowess, keep me grounded and fortunate to go forward to the bigger picture.