Over the past several years Playworks has been grateful to partner with OneAmerica Financial to bring impactful and meaningful change to children in Wisconsin and Indiana. Our partnership is rooted in a shared belief that play is essential to the development and wellbeing of children. Together, we are creating a healthier and happier future generation.
The Power of Play: Why It Matters
Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive through active play and meaningful connection. Today’s children face unprecedented challenges to their development – from limited access to safe play spaces to increased screen time that reduces active social interaction. Play is a crucial component of childhood development that builds resilience, fosters social connections, and creates the foundation for lifelong physical and mental health. As schools and communities seek solutions to support children’s wellbeing and academic success, organized play programs offer a powerful, practical pathway to transform young lives.
Long time supporter and Leadership Council member, Heather Hutchinson, Senior Vice President, Enterprise Business Improvement at OneAmerica, reflects on why she advocated for the partnership between Playworks and OneAmerica. “Playworks focuses on youth programs that develop critical skills for the future. I am passionate about the Playworks mission and the impact we see in schools and students across Indiana; as a parent I needed and wanted to get involved with this amazing organization.”
Between Indiana and Wisconsin, OneAmerica has participated in numerous corporate play days, bringing the fun to the OneAmerica tower in downtown Indianapolis. Playworks facilitated some of our classic games like foursquare, switch, tic tac toe relay, hula hoop tag, and more! Playworks Indiana was also joined by OneAmerica employees at Brookside School IPS 54 to beautify their Playground and lead students in recess games. Playworks Wisconsin has hosted OneAmerica employees at Brown St Academy in Milwaukee where volunteers helped assemble 1,000 lanyards for our Junior Coaches detailing their recess schedule and popular games.
Impact and Results: Positive Change in Schools and Communities
The partnership between OneAmerica and Playworks has seen tangible results over the past few years, not just in terms of fun and games, but in real, measurable improvements in youth development. Schools implementing Playworks programs consistently report that students:
- Return to class ready to learn
- Demonstrate stronger conflict resolution skills
- Show increased physical activity during recess
- Build positive relationships across grade levels
- Develop leadership skills through Junior Coach programs
In addition, the program’s success is reflected in the growing number of schools across Indiana and Wisconsin that have embraced Playworks’ approach to play. More schools are recognizing the value of high quality recess and the positive impact it can have on the overall learning environment.
With educational budgets continuing to get tighter, thanks to incredible partners like OneAmerica, Playworks is able to catalyze play and reach 2 million children by 2028. By continuing to invest in the power of play, OneAmerica and Playworks are ensuring that future generations have the skills, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.
