Volunteer Spotlight: Garrett Kohel

Being a volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse can take on many different forms. Some volunteers lead group programs. Others support events behind the scenes. Some lend a hand when mailings need to go out or supplies need to be prepped. And then there are those special individuals who seem to do a little bit of everything. This month, we are proud to recognize one of those volunteers: Garrett. 

Beyond his willingness to jump in wherever he’s needed, Garrett brings the true spirit of GiGi’s Playhouse core values into everything he does. His time, energy, and heart have made a lasting impact on our participants, our programs, and our Playhouse as a whole. 

Enthusiastic: Bringing positive, high energy to your work 
Garrett currently serves as a Playhouse Pals Program Leader and is often the creative force behind some of our most fun and engaging activities. He is always willing to be the first to demonstrate an activity—even if it means being a little silly—because he knows that leading by example helps our participants feel comfortable and confident. His enthusiasm is contagious, and his energy consistently brings smiles, laughter, and joy to everyone in the room. 

Best of All: We are always looking to improve every day, with all that we do. Challenge yourself every day to embrace a Generation G life 
Starting a new program is never easy, especially when lesson plans must be written before truly knowing the participants who will be attending. Despite this challenge, Garrett has shown a strong commitment to growth and improvement. Over time, Playhouse Pals has continued to evolve and strengthen thanks to his thoughtful planning and reflection. Garrett is constantly looking for new ways to better engage participants, support their understanding, and adapt lessons to meet their needs. The care and intentionality he brings to his work are evident in every session. 

Get It Done: Making things happen and blasting through barriers when needed. Figure it out together. 
Being the spouse of a Volunteer Coordinator is no small role, but Garrett embraces it with patience, humor, and dedication. He is always willing to lend a hand, whether that means helping construct parts of our 2025 Wausau Business Expo booth, cutting out pirate flag pieces for Playhouse Pals, or assisting with last-minute projects that pop up unexpectedly. Garrett is also a wonderful sounding board for new ideas and an innovator when old concepts need reshaping. His grounded perspective and problem-solving mindset help turn ideas into action. 

Believe: Believe in ourselves, believe in our mission, believe in each other, and believe in the history that brought us here. 
When asked why he volunteers, Garrett’s answer is simple and heartfelt: the participants. He finds genuine joy in watching them grasp new concepts, grow as individuals, and discover their own strengths. He celebrates our friends for exactly who they are and regularly shares stories of his experiences at the Playhouse with others outside our walls. His belief in our participants and in the mission of GiGi’s Playhouse shines through in everything he does. 

Locally Centered, Enterprise Minded: We collaborate, share best practices, and leverage the collective learnings from across the GiGi’s Network.  
In November, Garrett was part of our local team that traveled to the GiGi’s National Leadership Conference. There, he learned from Playhouses across the network and shared insights from the Wausau Playhouse. One of the greatest challenges for Program Leaders is balancing fun, engaging activities with the core concepts and goals of each program. Garrett excels in this area, consistently creating lessons that are both meaningful and enjoyable. 

While every volunteer hour is deeply appreciated, the impact that one dedicated individual can make is truly remarkable. Garrett’s time, creativity, and commitment deserve sincere recognition and gratitude. 

If you—or someone you know—would like to learn more about volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau, please contact Lizzy at [email protected]. We would love to share more about what it looks like to be part of our organization, in whatever capacity you are willing to serve.