Why GiGi’s Playhouse…Meet Desta!

Volunteers are vital to the operation and success of a Playhouse!  We are so grateful for their dedication to participants and want to share a little about Desta!

I have been a life long educator and have continued to look for ways to help others in my community after I retired.  Having been involved in various volunteering pursuits with United Way of Marathon County,  I noticed some volunteer opportunities for GiGi’s Playhouse located in Weston, WI.  I was curious to know more.   I researched what GiGi’s Playhouse was all about and became fascinated in the programs, resources, support, and services offered at no-cost to families and individuals of all ages with Down syndrome.  I attended a Volunteer Orientation Meeting and was impressed with the facility, their purpose, mission, and vision.  I decided that I had to be a part of this positive and life changing organization, so I volunteered as a Literacy Tutor and help with the Fantastic Friends Program.

Having been a volunteer for seven months, some of my favorite moments are:  when a very shy student comes out of her shell and shares her joy by smiling, laughing, clapping, and dancing with success during a letter lesson,  when a participant feels comfortable and confident enough to speak in front of a small group, when participants excitedly and cooperatively work together in activities and preparing snacks,  when a student eagerly shows you her Phonics Book that she was working on at home, when a student giggles out loud over a story she is reading, and when the participants enter the front door, see you, and enthusiastically greet you with their smiles!!

Working with individuals and families at GiGi’s Playhouse has been an absolutely amazing experience for me.   I have found a positive, compassionate, and inclusive environment that truly encompasses the vision, purpose, and mission, by unleashing joy, building confidence, and working towards continuous improvement.  This is why I am a volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse!!

Desta Krueger

Sign up to be a volunteer today and experience what Desta has HERE!