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.

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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.

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Learn about our Impact

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

Calvin Hamilton ›

Calvin “Coach Calvin” Hamilton started off as a program coordinator in 2014, serving as an AmeriCorps Coach at Florence Griffith Joyner Elementary in Watts. After his year of service with…

Christian headshot
Christian headshot

August 30, 2021

Christian Villarroel ›

Christian, better known as “Coach Monkey” is going on five years of being a Playworker. He believes in teamwork, laughter, and the power of play. Christian’s favorite recess game is…

headshot of Greg
headshot of Greg

September 3, 2024

Greg Williamson ›

Greg joins Playworks with over 10 years of experience working directly with children in learning and development spaces. After coaching junior high and high school volleyball for several years, Greg…

Join the Team


We’re hiring! Join us on the playground or behind the scenes.

Open positions