About Playworks New York/New Jersey
All kids deserve the social, emotional, and physical benefits of play. We help schools and youth programs create healthy play environments where every child can join in.
Meet Playworks New York/New Jersey
Founded in 1996, Playworks expanded to New York/New Jersey in 2009. Playworks New York/New Jersey serves low-income schools across the area through our year-round, on-site support services. We’re also reaching thousands more students across New York/New Jersey through professional development workshops for schools and youth organizations.
Our Mission
Playworks’ mission is to improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play.
Our Vision
Playworks’ vision is that one day every child in America will have access to safe, fun, healthy play every day.
Our Core Values
Meet Our People
September 22, 2017
Basheer Smith ›
Bash joined Playworks in 2015 as a Playworks AmeriCorps Coach and has since advanced to become the Program Director for the New York/New Jersey region. In this role, he oversees…
July 19, 2024
Niya Santiago ›
Niya Santiago has rejoined Playworks as a Pro Trainer for the New York/New Jersey Region. She was born and raised in New Jersey and is a former Division 1 basketball…
September 11, 2024
Kevin Spearman ›
Kevin Spearman, born in Atlanta, currently resides in Newark, New Jersey, returns to the Playworks family as the NYNJ Region Site Coordinator. After leaving Playworks, Kevin pursued IT consulting and…