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 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…
June 8, 2022
Jon Gibbs ›
Jon, aka “Coach Redbeard,” joins Playworks bringing his passion for supporting youth development and strengthening communities through his experience as a fourth-grade teacher in New Jersey. After joining Playworks as…
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…