Everyone agrees: Coach Isaiah Marshall’s deep care and approach with finding the best in everyone he meets inspires, uplifts, and connects individuals and communities.
Isaiah is making an impact on over 2,000 students and 120 staff from four schools in which he works. He is the energetic hub of every playground he steps onto, and this energy permeates throughout the whole school community.
Isaiah helps kids–and adults at school– navigate challenges, build confidence, and discover leadership qualities within themselves, all through play. His approach to recess goes beyond fun and games; it’s about creating a network of support where every child feels included and valued.
Growing up, Isaiah was inspired by his foster dad, Dion Wiggins, who saw in him a unique dedication to meeting people where they are and building genuine relationships.
“Seeing him understand the importance of meeting people where they’re at and wanting to have genuine relationships…is very nice to see.”
And these qualities continued to flourish as Isaiah pursued a career in education, like his foster dad. Through his work at schools, Isaiah met Julian Peota, a Program Manager with Playworks, and discovered his passion.
As Isaiah says, “My intention is to make the world a better place through play.”
So he set out to do just that.
Isaiah joined Playworks as a Coach because he knew what a difference play could make to connect people. As fellow Playworker Travis Evans shared, “relationships are his thing.”
Whether he’s teaching conflict resolution, encouraging teamwork, or just playing alongside the kids, Isaiah’s presence transforms recess into a space where students can grow, learn, and thrive.
His passion for empowering youth, inspired by his own journey, continues to make a lasting impact across schools. Explore more of Isaiah’s impact
This giving season, we’re highlighting Isaiah’s story, and the stories of just a few of the many students and staff he has impacted in his role as a Coach.
Coach Isaiah’s story is just one example of how many Playworks coaches help students build confidence, develop leadership skills, and form lasting connections through play. This impact is only possible through a growing network of supporters who believe in play’s power to transform kids’ lives.
When you donate to Playworks, you become part of this network.
Your support helps us to connect even more kids and communities. By investing in coaches like Isaiah, you’re helping build a future where every child can lead, grow, and thrive. Join us in making play a powerful tool for change, and be a part of a story that’s creating brighter futures for kids everywhere.
