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/ .
Bringing People Together Through Dance
If you have not attended the popular Virtual Dance – LaBlast, you should sign up right now! High energy Robert Wallop, a 26-year-old from Annapolis, Maryland, shares his love for dance and passion to perform as our Dance – LaBlast program leader (for both GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse and GiGi’s Playhouse Annapolis since 2021). As a…
Empowering Abilities – James’ New Job!
James’ passion for cooking blossomed when his family relocated from Florida to Georgia, and he started attending the Virtual GiGi’s Kitchen Adult program. In Virtual GiGi’s Kitchen, James learned kitchen safety and food preparation skills while increasing his self-confidence and social skills with his peers. Reflecting on his experiences with GiGi’s Kitchen, James shared, “I…
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…