About Playworks Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania
Founded in 1996, Playworks expanded to Pennsylvania in 2010. Playworks Pennsylvania serves low-income schools across Philadelphia through our year-round, on-site support services. We’re also reaching thousands more students across Pennsylvania 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
![headshot of Charles](https://www.playworks.org/pennsylvania/wp-content/uploads/sites/18/2023/02/2f222A3990-scaled-e1710190812773-295x295.jpg)
![headshot of Charles](https://www.playworks.org/pennsylvania/wp-content/uploads/sites/18/2023/02/2f222A3990-scaled-e1710190812773-295x295.jpg)
February 6, 2023
Charles Hopkins ›
Charles, or Chuck as he prefers, is a fun-loving, active who’s personality is as big as his voice. With over 10 years of management experience and over 4 years of…
![headshot of Niya](https://www.playworks.org/pennsylvania/wp-content/uploads/sites/18/2023/02/2f222A4178-scaled-e1710190692519-295x295.jpg)
![headshot of Niya](https://www.playworks.org/pennsylvania/wp-content/uploads/sites/18/2023/02/2f222A4178-scaled-e1710190692519-295x295.jpg)
February 6, 2023
Niya Smith-Hutson ›
Niya Smith-Hutson, a social butterfly, youth advocate, community liaison, and philanthropist comes from an extensive background working in education, and human services throughout Pennsylvania. Born and raised in Philly, Niya…
![headshot of Joshua](https://www.playworks.org/pennsylvania/wp-content/uploads/sites/18/2022/12/2f222A3819-scaled-e1710191030597-295x295.jpg)
![headshot of Joshua](https://www.playworks.org/pennsylvania/wp-content/uploads/sites/18/2022/12/2f222A3819-scaled-e1710191030597-295x295.jpg)
December 5, 2022
Joshua Casares ›
Born in Ecuador and raised in South Jersey, Josh first came to the city of Philadelphia to study at Drexel University. Upon graduating with a bachelors in Mechanical Engineering he…