Community & Friendship
During Covid when we first launched Virtual programming, we never realized how many new families we would begin to reach! Many families do not live close to a brick and mortar playhouse and because of this they were unable to take advantage of GiGi’s free purposeful programming and meet other families like theirs. But now through GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse families that live in rural communities, who are unable to drive, or who are simply not in the same city as a GiGi’s Playhouse have a virtual community where they feel supported and welcomed!
James has thrived in our virtual GiGi’s Kitchen program as well as our Teen Tastic program. His Mom Pamela tells us, “James is so proud to have cooked meals thru GiGi’s Kitchen that we have really loved. He can’t stop smiling about that!”
Our FREE purposeful programs, and our online community, have given him a chance to learn new skills and to also to make new friends. “James desperately wants friends and GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse is making that possible for him. I am unable to drive so this is James’s only real opportunity to enjoy others his age,” says Pamela.
We are thrilled to have James on our virtual programs, and we know his friends will be equally thrilled to see him on programs again this Fall!
Kicks, Confidence, and Community: Sarah’s GiGi’s Journey
Sarah’s journey as a volunteer is rooted in something deeply personal: a lifelong passion for supporting people with special needs and creating spaces where everyone feels included. From her early experiences in special education classes as a child to becoming a leader and advocate in her community today, Sarah’s story is one of compassion, leadership,…
Turning Math Upside-Down (Literally!): Maggie’s Lightbulb Moment
How a vertical number line helped one student unlock confidence and accuracy By Katie Buss, BSW Intern, Aurora University & GiGi’s Playhouse Virtual Playhouse Tutor (Fall 2025 – Spring 2026) When you meet 12-year-old Maggie, you immediately notice her spark. This fifth-grader from Massachusetts brings enthusiasm, humor, and heart to every tutoring session. Whether she’s talking about cheerleading (“GO EAGLES!”), gymnastics,…
Meet Addison: Building Friendships Through GiGi’s
Since joining GiGi’s Playhouse in 2023, Addison has become an important part of the community through his dedication, compassion, and commitment to helping others. Wanting to give back to a community that means so much to many families and individuals, Addison quickly found a meaningful way to make a positive impact through volunteering. His passion…