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!”
A note from Desiree & Brighton
“GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse gives our son, Brighton, the opportunity to learn alongside others like him, as we don’t have a GiGi’s playhouse where we live. It has helped our family learn what it’s like in his shoes and the programs expose him to sign language. We love learning new signs and showing them to him.…
Kyrie’s love for GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse Programs
In the digital embrace of GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse (VPH), Kyrie’s story unfolds as a testament to the profound impact of connection and inclusivity. Since September 2023, Kyrie has become a dedicated participant in VPH programs, immersing herself multiple times a week for five enriching months. Kyrie’s virtual journey is marked by joyful encounters – from…
Making a difference through Music
Amidst the demands of her student and part-time work life, Fabiana sought a fulfilling yet flexible volunteering opportunity. Enter GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse, a community-driven initiative dedicated to changing the way the world views Down syndrome and sending a global message of acceptance for all. Little did Fabiana know, this discovery would lead to one of…