Every month here at Playtime, we spend some time chatting over the most incredible things our volunteers have done that month, the ways they've gone above and beyond the call of duty, and who truly epitomizes the term "hero of play." Then, we pick a Volunteer of the Month for each of our programs. So, without further ado, let us introduce our My Sister's Place Volunteer of the Month!
Meet Ingalisa Schrobsdorff, our March 2020 My Sister's Place Volunteer of the Month!
Starting a new program from scratch is always an exciting time at Playtime, and it's made all the better when we have incredible volunteers like Ingalisa Schrobsdorff helping us get a program off the ground! Inga came on the Playtime just this year at our newest site, My Sister's Place, and Site Manager Madison Sampson shared that she's been an integral part of that program's start.
"She always brings great energy to the playroom and makes an effort to get to know all of the children. For our Valentine’s Day party she went above and beyond to ensure our children had a great time. Not only did she spend time baking cookies for them to decorate, she also brought in various arts and crafts for them to create lovely valentines for their moms and teachers," Madison said. "While playing with the big kids, she also makes an effort to spend time in the baby room. Her kindness is felt by staff, fellow volunteers, and all the children. Last week when she walked into the baby room to drop off more cookies, a 2 year-old walked over and immediately fell asleep in her arms. We love having Inga at the MSP team!"
Keep reading for a Q&A with Inga.
I've only been with Playtime a little over a month, but I'm already such a huge fan of the program, the kids, and the staff and other volunteers; I hope to be volunteering for a long time.
-Playtime Project Volunteer of the Month Ingalisa Schrobsdorff
When and why did you start volunteering with Playtime?
I started with Playtime four weeks ago earlier this year. I was really excited to volunteer with kids, and when I did some research and found Playtime, I was so impressed with the mission. Helping this vulnerable population have a cheerful space, positive attention and fun activities and some time to interact with other kids sounded like such a brilliant project. And the much-needed breaks for the parent(s) is also so essential, and as a parent myself I know how much time off can help make time with kids better.
How has volunteering with Playtime affected you?
First, I've been so impressed with not only the mission, but how organized Playtime is. The info session, orientation, and the weekly volunteer experience all feel so well thought out and organizationally excellent. Madison, who runs My Sister's Place where I volunteer, is focused, professional, supportive, and just so good with both volunteers and the kids.
And the kids! They are amazing. They're so enthusiastic and bright, and they engage fully in all the activities. I love when one of the toddlers falls asleep on my shoulder, when the boys get excited about a new game, the incredibly sweet child who helps all the younger kids.
Can you share a memorable moment you've had as a Play Ranger?
Probably my most memorable moment was reading to a boy who's just 9 months old but who was completely captivated by Global Babies, a book filled with pictures of babies.
What else do you want people to know about your work with Playtime?
I've only been with Playtime a little over a month, but I'm already such a huge fan of the program, the kids, and the staff and other volunteers; I hope to be volunteering for a long time.
If you could have any super power, what would it be?
I'd love to fly! The idea of soaring above the city, above the trees, hanging out with the birds would be amazing.
Read more about how you can be a Play Ranger just like Ingalisa here.
