Update from the Executive Director

Dear Valued Playworks Colorado Donors,

 I am deeply grateful for your unwavering support this year. Your generosity has been transformative, and I want to express my heartfelt thanks for the many ways you’ve championed Playworks.

Your presence at our events, your donations, and your efforts to engage friends, family, and colleagues have been instrumental in spreading the word about our vital work. You understand that when children play, we all win. By supporting kids at play today, you’ve invested in a healthy future for all of us.

Through your partnership, we’re addressing a critical need. Children are still struggling with emotional regulation and social-emotional skills, especially in the wake of increased isolation. You recognize that play is not just about fun and games—it’s where children first learn to relate to others, building communication and collaboration skills that last a lifetime.

Your support helps us create safe, supportive spaces for play, particularly for children who might otherwise lack access. You understand that equitable access to play is crucial for building inclusive communities and fostering better social and emotional health for all.

Every recess game organized, every conflict resolved peacefully, and every smile on a child’s face is a direct result of your generosity. You’re not just donors; you’re partners in creating a brighter, more playful future for Colorado’s youth.

As we look ahead, we’re filled with hope and determination. With supporters like you by our side, we’re confident in our ability to continue making a positive impact. You understand that what happens on the playground today will strengthen our communities tomorrow.

Thank you for believing in the power of play and for your commitment to nurturing the next generation. Your support is truly an investment in our shared prosperity and the future of our communities.

With deepest gratitude,

Andrea Woolley
Executive Director
Playworks Colorado

This year we served

31,702

Students 

374

Youth Leaders

77

Partners

 

73.56% Free/Reduced Lunch Eligible Students with direct service partners

kids playing Switch“Playworks has had a clear positive impact on my students’ ability to communicate with one another and emphasize kindness over ‘winning.’ They always look forward to their time with Coach Grace!” 

– Classroom Teacher

According to our Annual Survey,

% of educators agree that Playworks helps…

increase the number of students that are
physically active

91%

students develop the skills to succeed in their learning community

90%

improve the school climate

93%

 

 

create an environment of belonging

92%

 

reduction in the number of disciplinary incidents

81%

 

create opportunities for inclusion of diverse groups of students

91%

Local highlight

Hi everyone, my name is Dylan Jimenez, and I am a fifth grader at Colfax Elementary in Denver Public Schools. Today, I want to share with you something really awesome that I’ve been doing – being a Junior Coach at Playworks!

Being a Junior Coach is like being a recess superhero. I get to help out during recess and make sure everyone is having fun and playing nicely. It’s a big responsibility, but it’s also really fun!

Since I started being a Junior Coach, I’ve noticed some cool changes in myself. Before, I used to be a little shy and nervous about talking to new people. But now, I feel like I can talk to anyone! When you’re a Junior Coach, you have to talk to lots of different kids and make sure they’re all having a good time. That’s helped me be more confident when I have to speak up in class or work on group projects. I even made some new friends because I started talking more and being friendly to everyone.

Another awesome thing about being a Junior Coach is that I get to be a leader for younger kids. They look up to me, and I get to show them how to play games and resolve conflicts. It feels really good to help others and be a role model. Plus, it’s fun to see their smiles and hear them say “thank you” after I’ve helped them out.

So, if you ever get the chance to be a Junior Coach or help out at recess, I totally recommend it. It’s been such a great experience for me, and I know it can help you become more confident and a leader too!

In case you missed it

On Thursday, April 11, Playworks supporters, Board Members, Junior Coaches and families, staff, and partners came together for our annual fundraiser where sneakers are required. The event was held for the second year at Empower Field at Mile High transporting guests from the dinner table to the playground. Together, we reached our fundraising goal of $100,000 by learning, celebrating, and investing in the power of play. All funds raised support Playworks programs in elementary schools in Colorado by providing on-site coaching, professional training for school staff, consultation visits and digital resources; partnerships can be found here.

Guests learned first hand how play works from Junior Coaches in our school communities. Junior Coaches, Roxanna, Dylan, and Jailyn, and Arturo, representing Colfax Elementary School and Highline Academy, led games and shared their experiences as Junior Coaches, highlighting how the program has helped them make new friends, gain confidence, and help others.

Check out our blog Playworks Soiree for Play Event Playback

kids playing Switch