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 Amy for going above and beyond helping with programming and administrative work. Amy has donated over 163 volunteer hours over the past 3 months! We are very lucky to have her as a volunteer.
“Hi my name is Amy and I am a senior at Loyola Chicago University studying exercise science. I plan to go into dentistry after graduation. I volunteer as a virtual program assistant. I help the program leader to run the virtual program smoothly.
I really enjoy volunteering for GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse because it gives me the opportunity to meet new people and to interact with them. I love talking to participants before the start of each program and getting to know about their weekend plans, what they are having for dinner, or any exciting plans coming up. Volunteering at GiGi’s allowed me to learn how to modify certain activities so that it is inclusive to all participants. It is so enjoyable to see participants engage, succeed in their work, and their resulting happiness!”
Honoring a Sister’s Legacy: Dan’s Volunteer Journey with GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse
For Dan, volunteering with GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse is more than just giving back—it’s a way to honor someone very special in his life. His younger sister was born with Down syndrome, and her memory continues to inspire the time and energy he dedicates to supporting individuals with Down syndrome today. Dan remembers his sister as bright, funny, and…
Elian’s Love for Reading with GiGi’s Online 1:1 Literacy Tutoring
Elian has been part of GiGi’s Online 1:1 Literacy Tutoring program for almost two years, and his mom has shared what a joy it’s been to watch him grow. From a very early age, Elian showed a love for books. By the time he was one, he was already holding books upright, turning the pages as best he could,…
Finding Community Wherever She Goes: Sofia and GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse
Sofia’s journey with GiGi’s Playhouse began at her local Playhouse in her hometown, where she first immersed herself in the GiGi’s community. From the start, she was drawn to the welcoming environment, the emphasis on purposeful programming, and the genuine connections formed between participants, families, and volunteers. As Sofia’s life took her to different places around the…