Stepping Up to Make an Impact
We Need You!
Two of GiGi’s Playhouse core values are Enthusiastic and Get it Done. In 2023, we showed our small but mighty Playhouse could Get it Done, through increased programming and community awareness initiatives. While we try to be Enthusiastic showcasing the amazing things our participants are achieving and the fun things we are doing, let’s be honest, it has been hard, and volunteers and staff are tired at times!
Over the course of a year, the average Playhouse has roughly 100 volunteers. GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau operated with just over 60 last year. This includes 18 individuals with roles on our Board of Managers and Youth Board and 8 who volunteered in an administrative role. We are extremely lucky that many of our volunteers hold multiple roles and / or take on several literacy students. There is also the fact that several volunteers admit they cannot say “no” when I ask for their help!
My staff role is unique in that I am a parent. I work for the families and advocate for their needs and wants at the Playhouse every day. And boy, do we know there is a need, that is clear with the Playhouse providing 1,011 hours more in programming last year than what we did in 2022. Because I am a parent I struggle at the beginning of every session, knowing I may have to tell a family we cannot serve their loved one in Literacy, or we cannot offer a program because we do not have enough volunteers.
We have just started Spring session programming and we are looking at the 2nd highest enrollment in Literacy and not enough volunteers for multiple programs. We NEED you this Spring and, in the future, as the need continues to grow programming, advocacy, and community acceptance.
Open Volunteer Roles
Program Leads
Kids Club: Supports the development of social skills and language through peer-to-peer interaction in a casual and fun setting. Programming supports gross motor skills through active games, fine motor and self-help skills through meal/snack preparation and activities and includes community outings.
Schedule is every other Monday 5 to 6pm.
Dance: Introduces dance styles, techniques and movements to participants while improving gross motor skills, increasing mental and muscle memory, and increasing cardiovascular conditioning, strength, flexibility, and coordination. Programming includes a dance recital at the beginning of October.
Schedule is every other Sunday 4 to 5pm.
Program Assistants
Special Olympics Young Athletes: Focuses is on fun activities that are important to mental and physical growth, participants enjoy sport and play that develop motor skills and hand eye coordination.
Schedule is 8-week session Mondays 6 to 7pm.
Seed to Sale: Programming empowers participants to become motivated to eat and love fruit and vegetables, promotes physical activity, and installs a respect for nature. Teen and adult participants will be empowered to explore the career-based opportunities that exist when harvesting items produced in the garden, all while increasing self-confidence, accountability, and quality of life.
Schedule is TBD.
Greeter: Responsible for ensuring each participant/guest in GiGi’s Playhouse is greeted, checked-in and any relevant forms are completed. Assist with taking pictures and capturing Best of All’s.
Schedule is based on all programming.
Tutoring
1:1 Literacy Tutors: Developing reading skills also leads to improvements in speech and language development, auditory perceptual skills and working memory function. Our goal is to foster a love for reading and provide an opportunity to develop and master skills, all while building a positive relationship with our volunteer tutors.
Schedule is based on tutor and family availability.
Committees
Events: Responsible for planning and executing 5K GLOW Fun Run and Harvest Picnic.
Schedule is virtual every other Thursday 7 to 7:45pm.
Outreach: Responsible for planning and executing family events (WDSD, Holiday, etc.) and community events.
Schedule is virtual the 2nd Sunday of the month 7 to 8pm
Board of Managers
Executive Members & General Members: Oversight of Playhouse sustainability and strategic vision.
The Journey to Becoming a Volunteer
- Complete our online Volunteer Interest Form.
- Look for an email from Kerri, our Volunteer Coordinator, inviting you to come in and join us for Volunteer Orientation.
- Attend Volunteer Orientation, get a tour, and find your passion!
- Complete required onboarding documents, training, and potential program observation.
- Be inspired!
As a 99% volunteer run organization, we rely on the skills and dedication of volunteers of various levels of expertise to keep our programs vibrant, educational, fun, and FREE. We have many ways in which you can get involved. Whether you are a parent, family member, clinician, therapist, educator, graphic artist, computer whiz, or any other skill, we have a place and NEED you!
“You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give.”
WINSTON CHURCHILL
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