Volunteer Spotlight: Theresa Szuba

Theresa Szuba is a devoted volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse whose impact can be felt throughout the organization. She has served as a Board member, led Kids Club, helped launch and lead GiGiFIT Teen, and has been a Teen Tastic leader for more than five years. Most recently, she joined the Family Engagement Committee. 

Theresa is inspired by her daughter, Melissa, to volunteer, connect with others, and encourage families to participate or get involved. She believes deeply in the mission of GiGi’s Playhouse and the sense of belonging it creates. “When Melissa was born, there wasn’t a GiGi’s Playhouse in Syracuse, and I remember what that felt like. I don’t want anyone to feel alone. I want them to know there is a whole community waiting to support them and understand what they’re going through.” 

One of Theresa’s favorite parts of volunteering is watching participants, families, and volunteers build lasting relationships and seeing programs grow—because when programs grow, the community grows. She especially loves welcoming volunteers into the GiGi’s experience and watching them carry what they learn and feel at GiGi’s out into the greater Syracuse community, creating positive change beyond the Playhouse. 

One of her most meaningful memories is helping a parent feel confident enough to drop off their teen at the zoo with Teen Tastic. “The teen was a little nervous at one point, but the volunteers supported them, and it was very successful.” Later, Theresa ran into the teen at a school event. “They came running up to me, gave me a big hug, and said, ‘Hello, my friend!’ It absolutely made my day and helped me understand the impact Gigi’s has had in my life personally and can have in the wider Syracuse community, when we are all there to support one another.” 

For anyone considering becoming a volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse, Theresa has simple advice: “Do it! GiGi’s is a warm, joyful place filled with laughter, smiles, and meaningful connections. You will not regret it.”