GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau Youth Board

The GiGi's Playhouse Wausau Youth Board is made up of a dedicated and motivated group of high school students who see the importance of increasing awareness for individuals with Down Syndrome, as well as creating an environment that is accepting, generous and kind: the three fundamentals of the Generation G Pledge. The purpose of the Youth Board is to spread the message of Generation G through hosting events for members of the community and GiGi's Playhouse families and encouraging other high school students to commit to signing and carrying out the Generation G Pledge.

Meet Our Youth Board

Maddie Martin, Board President

Hi! I live in Marathon City and I’m sophomore at Marathon High School. At school I enjoy playing on the volleyball team, being on FBLA, and participating in Math-league. I’m also part of my local Auxiliary where I am the 2020 Poppy Princess and got the chance to give speeches at Memorial and Veterans Day. I’m the oldest of four girls and have 3 animals. Two dogs, one is a puppy, and a cat we found as a stray. I joined Gigi’s to make a difference in my community and show other teens they can too!

Aidan Gavrilla, Vice President

I am a junior at D.C. Everest senior high. I play soccer throughout the year and enjoy skiing with my family in the winter. After positively interacting with the Down syndrome community at my middle school I realized I needed to do more to make a difference, thus I joined GiGi’s. I enjoy volunteering at GiGi’s as there is a great atmosphere that fosters irreplaceable friendships. As well, this is the organization that enables me to make the strongest impact in my community.

Elin Nielsen, Secretary

Cassidy Lackey, Board Member

Hello, I’m Cassidy Lackey! I’m one of the many Wausau GiGi’s Playhouse Youth Board Members. I’m a sophomore the DC Everest Senior High. I’m also very involved within sports and my community. I’m a part of Peyton’s Promise, NHS, DECA, and Everest Varsity Dance Team! I’ve been on this Youth Board since 2020, and I’ve found a home within our walls! I’ve met so many caring and compassionate people and friends. I’ve had many great experiences and amazing opportunities during the years! I’ve learned so much more than I ever could have! I’m proud to be a part of GiGi’s and representing #GenerationG!

Zoey Yang, Board Member

My name is Zoey Yang and I am a Sophomore at the DC Everest Senior High. My interests include, volunteering for GiGi’s Playhouse, helping in the community with Peytons Promise, Girl Scouts, participating in Swim Team at my school, theater, dance, being with friends and family, and so much more. I am so happy to be a part of GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau’s Youth Board and have a place for people to hang out and be accepted, as well as to be able to make a change for the better.

Aidan Wanta, Board Member

Hi! I’m Aidan Wanta, a homeschooled 16-year-old sophomore in high school. I live in Tomahawk, WI, and have a younger sister, Morgan, with Down syndrome. She is the reason I joined the youth board. I enjoy playing the piano, painting, drawing, reading, camping, and visiting Lake Superior.

Geneva Michlig

Hi, my name is Geneva Michlig and I am a junior at Wausau East. I am on the swim and basketball teams, and I also enjoy reading and writing in my free time. I joined GiGi’s after hearing about its work in the community and I hope to help make a difference while getting to know other teens interested in this organization. I enjoy volunteering and I’m excited to be a part of GiGi's!

Allyson Frystak, Board Member

Hi! I’m Allyson Frystak, a Sophomore at DC Everest Senior High. I am part of my schools curling team in the winter, as well as the forensics team and Spanish club. I love to cook, bake, and play the drums in my free time. I have been on the Gigis playhouse youth board since the beginning of the summer of 2022. I really enjoy Gigis because you are surrounded by creative people who are all working to achieve kindness and acceptance in our community. I really enjoy being involved in projects and helping to make a difference.

Oliver Meney, Board Member

Ava P'ng, Social Media

Hello, my name is Ava P’ng! I am a senior at D.C. Everest Senior High School. My hobbies include golfing, skiing, and participating in the performing arts. I have been a member of GiGi’s Generation G Youth Board for six months. What does Generation G. mean to me? Generation G means a kinder, more understanding and compassionate generation than those before us. It means fair and equal treatment of everyone, regardless of gender, race, disability, and social or economic status. It means pledging everyday to be a positive force in the world by acting with care in mind.

Riah Weiland, Board Member

My name is Riah Weiland, I am a senior at Wausau West High School and I’ve been a member of the youth board at GiGi’s Playhouse for the last 6 months. Throughout that time, I’ve greatly enjoyed interacting with participants though events planned by the youth board, along with fundraising for playhouse events, and volunteering in the community. I absolutely love spending my time getting to know the participants at the playhouse and helping them learn and grow in a variety of ways.

Elin Nielson, Board Member

Hi! My name is Elin Nielsen and I am a sophomore at DC Everest Senior High School. I enjoy playing tennis, skiing, traveling, and involving myself in school clubs & activities. I joined the GiGi’s Youth Board about six months ago. I heard about GiGi’s through another board member, Cassidy Lackey. My favorite part about the youth board is being able to collaborate and create ways to spread inclusivity. I also love working with the youth board—giving back to our community each month!