Meet Playworks Minnesota
Founded in 1996, Playworks expanded to Minnesota in 2010. Playworks Minnesota serves schools across Minnesota through our year-round, on-site support services. We’re also reaching thousands more students across Minnesota 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.
Every child deserves
• to learn how to be a good friend.
• to feel like a hero.
• a voice.
Playworks outcomes speak for themselves. Last year school principals and teacher reported:
Meet Our People
September 22, 2017
Brandon Elsner ›
Brandon Elsner (“Coach Brando” on the playground) is the Associate Director for Playworks Minnesota. His passion for play, physical activity and social and emotional wellness comes from his B.S. in…
March 20, 2024
Tristan Fatula ›
Tristan joined Playworks Minnesota as a Site Coordinator in 2024. He now serves the region as a Program Specialist. He grew up in Tucson, AZ and earned a bachelor’s degree…
September 22, 2017
Shauna McDonald ›
Shauna McDonald is the Executive Director of Playworks Minnesota. In this role, Shauna is responsible for growing Playworks impact and long term sustainability in Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota and South…