Indiana’s largest credit union to sponsor Playworks Indiana’s Junior Coach Leadership Program and serve as presenting sponsor for the 2026 Junior Coach Celebration
Playworks Indiana is jumping for joy to announce that Everwise Credit Union is stepping onto the playground as the official sponsor of our Junior Coach Leadership Program (JCLP) and the Presenting Sponsor for the Junior Coach Celebration on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Frederick Douglass Park. Together, Everwise and Playworks Indiana are proving that leadership, teamwork, and a good game of tag all go hand-in-hand.
The Junior Coach Leadership Program trains upper elementary students to be playground leaders, problem-solvers, and all-around kindness champions. From running recess games to modeling respect and empathy in the classroom, Junior Coaches help create a school culture where every kid feels like they belong. Last year, more than 150 student leaders took on the role of Junior Coach in schools across Indiana, leading games, cheering on their peers, and showing that leadership can be just as fun as it is impactful.
“We know that when kids feel safe, included, and valued, they thrive and that’s exactly what the Junior Coach Leadership Program delivers,” said Audrey Hallmann, Executive Director, Playworks Indiana. “Students in the JCLP program not only develop skills like integrity and problem-solving, they report increased academic motivation and improved relationships with peers and adults. Everwise’s commitment to building stronger communities makes them the perfect partner to help us expand this impact statewide.”
Founded in 1931, Everwise Credit Union is Indiana’s largest credit union, with more than $5 billion in assets, 50 branches throughout Indiana and southwest Michigan, and nearly 300,000 members. From checking and savings to mortgages, credit cards, and wealth management, Everwise offers the financial tools people need to thrive, while keeping community impact at the heart of everything they do.
“At Everwise, we believe in helping people thrive, not just financially, but in every part of their lives,” said Amy Wells, Everwise Area Manager and a member of the Playworks Indiana advisory board and governance committee. “We’re proud to support Playworks and the Junior Coach Leadership Program because it builds confident, compassionate young leaders in our communities. The positive impact on both the student coaches and their peers is incredible to witness.”
The Junior Coach Celebration, presented by Everwise, will kick off with an awards breakfast honoring Junior Coaches and their families, recognizing their leadership both on and off the playground.
And then… the real fun begins! After the celebration, the public is invited to join The Great Indianapolis Playdate, a free, high-energy community recess and resource fair packed with games, laughter, and connection. Families can jump into classic recess favorites, try new Playworks games, and visit local community partners offering information on summer camps, reading programs, and family resources. It’s recess without the bell, no hall passes required!
