About Playworks Northern California

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.

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Meet Playworks Northern California

Founded in 1996, Playworks expanded to Northern California in 2012. Playworks Northern California serves low-income schools across the San Francisco Bay Area through our year-round, on-site support services. We’re also reaching thousands more students across Northern California through professional development workshops for schools and youth organizations.

Learn about our Impact

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.

Meet Our People


September 15, 2023

Vince Samudio-Garcia ›

Vince started his career as a counselor at the Monterey County Jail, providing rehabilitative services to incarcerated individuals. But he wanted to make a broader impact, so he transitioned to…

Headshot of John
Headshot of John

October 24, 2024

John Schilder ›

John joined Playworks in October 2024 as the Development Director for California. A product of Central Ohio, John brings over 15 years of nonprofit leadership and fundraising experience with a…

March 11, 2021

Michelle Serrano ›

Michelle joined Playworks as an AmeriCorps coach in NorCal back in 2006, and her love of kids, sports, and our impact has remained front and center throughout her career at…

Join the Team


We’re hiring! Join us on the playground or behind the scenes.

Open positions