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
Alexis Cleland - Youth Board Advisor
Hello everyone! My name is Alexis Cleland, I am the Youth Board Advisor as well as a school psychologist and barre instructor. I joined this role to encourage youth in the surrounding school districts to challenge themselves in a leadership role within their communities and within an organization with a mission of acceptance for all and changing the way the world views Down Syndrome. I am excited to see the board reach our goals and support the community.
Elin Nielson, Board President
Hello! My name is Elin Nielsen, and I am a senior at DC Everest Senior High School. Within GiGi’s, I am currently serving as President of the Youth Board and am a Literacy Tutor. I also volunteer for the Kitchen Program. Outside of GiGi’s, I am heavily involved with and very interested in politics, law, and civic engagement. These past of couple of years have given me immense opportunity to help my community, and I am excited to continue spreading the message of inclusivity and acceptance!
Zoey Yang, Board Member
My name is Zoey Yang and I am a senior at the DC Everest Senior High. My interests include volunteering for GiGi’s Playhouse, helping in the community with Peytons Promise, Girl Scouts, being a team captain for the 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 in the community and in the world.
Owen Gavrila, Board Member
Hi, my name is Owen Gavrila, and I am a junior at DC Everest. I enjoy skiing and golfing with my family, traveling, and fishing. In school, I like to involve myself in clubs like FBLA and DECA. I joined the Youth Board about 6 months ago after being introduced to it by my brother, Aidan. I realized how amazing of an organization it is after my first time entering the building and immediately being able to build multiple relationships with the others involved. I love being a part of the Youth Board because it is the best method for me to give back to my community and I know that I am making a difference.
Livi Freiboth, Youth Board Member
My name is Livi Freiboth. I am a senior at Mosinee High School. I enjoy spending my time reading, hanging out with friends and family, playing soccer, running, traveling, and volunteering time to school/community based organizations. My passion to help people has driven me to GiGi’s, and I feel honored to be apart of something so impactful. I look forward to working alongside the other members to gradually increase awareness, inclusivity, and inspire participation within GiGi’s.
Loghanne Olson, Youth Board Member
My name is Loghanne Olson, and I’m a sophomore at D.C. Everest Senior High. At school, I’m involved in DECA and Student Council. Outside of school, I coach gymnastics, write and read poetry, and give my best attempt to make people smile. One belief that has come from how I was raised was constantly being told that “being kind is everything, even when you have everything.” This aligns with one of the three promises of being part of the Gen G mission. The mission hits closer to home with having a younger brother who has noticeable emotional struggles. Not only do I wish for others to be more kind, but more generous, and more accepting. This is why I wanted to join GiGi’s Youth Board; to advocate for those whose own advocacy is heard but not listened to.