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.
Meet Our People
September 11, 2018
Maria Bautista ›
Maria “Coach Mae” first came to Playworks as an AmeriCorp Member, bringing her passion for healthy, inclusive, and meaningful play to students across Los Angeles County. After her years of…
August 24, 2021
Nathaniel Manzano ›
Nathaniel “Coach Nate” Manzano began his career with Playworks as an AmeriCorps Program Coordinator in August 2015. He served his first two years at Lincoln Elementary in Santa Ana Unified…
August 16, 2022
Isa Garcia ›
Isa is beginning her first year with Playworks as a Site Specialist. Before joining Playworks, she worked for KCSN as a news anchor at Cal State University, Northridge. After graduation,…