Forming friendships through volunteering
“Every program I go to makes me smile. After a few weeks, the regular attendees knew me, and I know them, so it feels like we are forming meaningful friendships through the programs.”
Annika got involved in GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse programs, as well as physical programs at the San Diego playhouse, in hopes to gain more information about how GiGi’s can be a positive resource for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. This inquiry is part of her doctoral work on the mental health and wellness of individuals with Down syndrome. Annika’s little brother has Down syndrome, so she has spent most of her life as a part of the Down syndrome community, and she wanted to find a way to give back in any way that she could.
Annika observed many virtual programs because she enjoyed them so much, as well as becoming a volunteer with virtual GiGi’s Kitchen Adult and virtual Yoga. “In Yoga, we focus on mental and physical health and wellness while doing a yoga flow that is an amazing way to start the day. In GiGi’s Kitchen Adult, we learn all sorts of important kitchen and healthy eating skills while making different delicious recipes that are great for everyone in the family.”
Annika is graduating from OT school with her doctorate in Occupational Therapy on April 16th, 2024. “My focus is working with individuals of all ages with Down syndrome, pediatrics, and mental health, so I do lots of work and volunteering within these groups. I babysit, coach, and tutor and have been working hard on a website with mental health and wellness information and resources for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.”
“I recommend volunteering to others because it really is an opportunity to get as much as you’re giving, and oftentimes, even more. I am making new friends all throughout the US with participants and other volunteers, and I get to learn fun new things each week about cooking and yoga (and so much more).
“If you or someone you know is on the fence about volunteering, consider it! It is an amazing way to be involved with GiGi’s and something that you can do from anywhere, and there are options for all sorts of schedules. Even if you have no experience, the virtual GiGi’s team helps to make sure you have all the information you need. ”
“Each program gives me the chance to take a step away from the stresses of my life and enjoy some truly awesome company.”
We would love to have you join our volunteer team today! Learn more here: https://gigisplayhouse.org/virtual/volunteer/ .
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…