Volunteer Spotlight: Celebrating Community, Connection, and Kindness

Meet Meghan!

At GiGi’s Playhouse Syracuse, our volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do. This month, we’re excited to highlight a dedicated, upbeat, and deeply valued member of our community whose kindness shines in every program he touches. Meet our Volunteer Spotlight: Meghan 

Family plays a huge role in her life. She has two brothers, a nephew named Jimmy, and two nieces, Rose and Tess. When she’s not snowboarding, exercising, or staying active outdoors, you can usually find her spending time with her nieces and nephews—babysitting, or playing baseball in the neighborhood 

Two years ago, Meghan stepped into GiGi’s Playhouse for the very first time. Her girlfriend, Lexi, brought her along to help with Teen Kitchen—and after that one class, she was hooked. 

“I found a community I never knew existed and have loved getting to know so many new people.”  What started as helping for a day quickly turned into a passion for supporting our teens and being part of something meaningful. 

Meghan co-teaches Teen Kitchen, creating fun, hands-on cooking experiences that build both skills and confidence. You’ll also see her lending a hand at many of our events—races, holiday celebrations, and any time an extra pair of hands is needed.  

Volunteer work has always been a part of Meghan’s life. In high school and college, she spent time serving at warming houses and soup kitchens—experiences that taught her the power of purpose and community. 

“GiGi’s does an amazing job at creating a community for others, and it’s something I wanted to be a part of since my first day in Teen Kitchen.” 

Her heart for service continues to guide her, and that spirit is felt every time she walks into the Playhouse. For Meghan, the highlight of every week is simple—the people. She loves meeting new friends, spending time with participants, and watching each teen grow. The laughter, the inside jokes, the progress over two years, it’s all part of what makes volunteering so meaningful. 

“Watching them become more confident and learn so much is something you cannot take for granted.” 

Some of the most heartwarming moments happen outside the Playhouse. 

“I love when participants ask us to visit them at their baseball or basketball games. Seeing how happy it makes them when Lexi and I show up makes me just as happy.” 

Those connections—built on trust, joy, and mutual support—capture exactly what makes our community so special. “Go for it. It’s okay if you do not have experience with somebody with Down Syndrome—there is a spot for everybody who is kind, open-minded, and caring.” 

At GiGi’s Playhouse, every volunteer brings something unique. All you need is a big heart and a willingness to be part of creating change. 

Visit our website to find more ways that you can get involved! GiGi’s Playhouse Syracuse | Down Syndrome Achievement Center