A Year-End Story of Growth, Joy, and the Power of Free Programs

Over the last five years, Kirsten has blossomed through her involvement in GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse. With so many memorable moments, it’s difficult to choose just one “Best of All” experience—because Kirsten shows Best of All in every session she attends.
“Best of All” is about small, steady progress, and Kirsten demonstrates that beautifully. Whether she’s holding a plank a little bit longer in GiGiFIT before breaking into laughter, or ending Yoga with Maggie by sending peaceful thoughts to her loved ones, she approaches each program with dedication, joy, and an open heart.
In GiGi’s Kitchen, Kirsten shines brightest. She loves creating dishes, learning new skills, and taking pride in her accomplishments. Volunteers like Analie, our longtime GiGi’s Kitchen Adult volunteer have become meaningful mentors, helping build her confidence one recipe at a time.
Kirsten’s family first turned to GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse during the pandemic, when in-person programs paused. What began as a temporary solution quickly became an essential part of their weekly routine, a source of structure, connection, and normalcy during a challenging time. Since then, our virtual programs have continued to enrich Kirsten’s life through social engagement, physical activity, learning, and most of all, fun.
Today, she participates in GiGi’s Kitchen Adult, GiGiMOVE Yoga, and GiGiFIT Adult. Kitchen remains her favorite, but in every program, Kirsten brings eagerness, positivity, and her signature willingness to always try her best.
Kirsten’s journey reflects the true meaning of Best of All: steady improvement, joyful participation, and celebration of every accomplishment.
Kirsten shows us what’s possible when the right support is available. With your gift, you make that support possible for thousands of participants and families.🌟 Give today. Empower a year of progress, joy, and “Best of All” moments for every participant.
Our Down to Dance Leader; Mariyah
We are so grateful for our partnership with the University of Florida and their Down to Dance program! Our participants absolutely love this program and learn so much from the incredible leaders like Mariyah. Mariyah currently volunteers and serves as the President of Down to Dance, an organization at the University of Florida that has…
Introducing Enrollment Program Leaders
We are so thrilled that the Fall Session is starting off soon for all our enrollment programs! We are thrilled to be offering GiGiFIT Kids, GiGi’s Kitchen Kids, and GiGi’s Kitchen Adult this Fall! These 15-week enrollment programs are a big commitment for our families as well as our volunteers and we know that many…
Our Program and Volunteer Coordinators
We are pleased to announce that we have two experienced Program and Volunteer Coordinators who will be serving our Virtual Playhouse community this fall. Claire We welcome Claire back to our team after family leave! Clare grew up in Minnesota where she earned her degree in Early Childhood Development with a minor in Psychology. Claire’s…