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.
Participants Supporting Participants
The End of a Session Celebration is a big deal around GiGi’s Playhouse! It’s a time to celebrate achievements and Best of Alls of not only our participants but also tutors and program leaders enrolled in our GiGiFIT, GiGi’s Kitchen, and one-on-one literacy or math tutoring programs. But, for the Virtual Playhouse, there was a…
Heather’s Hawaii 5-0 Team
Shari, Heather’s mom, shares their “why” for participating in The GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge (GFAC) 2023 – Virtual Movement. “We love the GFAC – Virtual Movement! It is an amazing opportunity to raise awareness, feel the love and support of our family and friends AND get moving. There are so many ways to participate, but…
Volunteer Appreciation – Amy Goes Above & Beyond
During National Volunteer Month in April, we would like to recognize and thank all those who give their time and energy to support GiGi’s Playhouse and our Virtual Playhouse families. As a primarily volunteer run organization, we are truly grateful for the 650 Virtual Playhouse volunteers who donated 7,250 hours in 2022! Our volunteer Spotlight for April recognizes…