About Playworks Southern 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.
Meet Playworks Southern California
Founded in 1996, Playworks expanded to Southern California in 2009. Playworks Southern California serves low-income schools through our year-round, on-site support services. We’re also reaching thousands more students across Southern California 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
June 8, 2022
Evelyn Barraza ›
Evelyn “Coach B” Barraza is entering her seventh year with Playworks Southern California in her new role as Regional Partnerships Manager. Evelyn began her Playworks journey in 2015 as an…
September 22, 2017
Roderick Burnley ›
Roderick Burnley joined Playworks in 2016. As Program Director for Playworks Southern California, he leads the planning and implementation of Playworks’ comprehensive school-based play and youth development programming, school partnership…
April 29, 2024
Aja Merriett ›
Aja embarked on her exciting journey with Playworks in July 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a heart full of passion. Her professional adventure started back in…