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 25, 2019
Robin Grossman ›
Robin Grossman is the Executive Director of Playworks New York/New Jersey. Robin provides leadership, vision, and strategy to the team based on her 25 years of experience in the nonprofit…
October 7, 2019
Jessica Schaeffer ›
Jessica Schaeffer is the Regional Partnership Director for Playworks in New York/New Jersey. Prior to joining the organization, Jessica worked at the Alliance for a Healthier Generation for seven years…