Detroit, Michigan — Playworks, a national nonprofit that uses recess and play to support learning and helps schoolchildren stay active and healthy, has announced receipients of the first annual Game Changer Awards. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Come Play Detroit, Excellent Schools Detroit, Motor City Chapter, Jack and Jill of America, Inc., and WXYZ’s Detroit 2020 Inititiative have each been named awardees.
The selection of awardees is based on the core values of Plaworks Detroit, which include healthy community, healthy play, respect and inclusion, along with recognizing one organizaton for outstanding community service.
“As an organization concerned about the wellbeing of children in our community, we really wanted to recognize those companies, organizations, or initiatives that are making a positive impact in Detroit”, said Jeannine Gant, executive director, Playworks Detroit. “Everyone can play a role ensuring Detroit is a great place to live for all children”.
The Game Changer Awards, sponsored in part by MGM Grand, will be presented at the first annual Playworks Detroit Get in the Game Luncheon on Wednesday, March 21, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Ford Field.
“There is nothing more valuable than helping to ensure the next generation knows we really do care about their future,” says President and CEO Florine Mark, Weight Watchers, who serves on the honorary committee. Other civic leaders serving on the event’s honorary committee include: Barbara Allushuski, Right Management; Dr. Betty Chu, Beaumont Hospital; Irma Elder, Elder Automotive Group; Debbie Dingell, D2 Strategies; Yousif Ghafari, Ghafari & Associates; Alan S. Schwartz, Honigman, Miller, Schwartz and Cohn, L.L.P; Dee Odom, MGM Grand Detroit; and, Reginald Turner, Clark Hill.
This free event is open to the community, but space is limited and a donation to Playworks is encouraged. For additional information on the award receipients, event registration and program book ads, or call 313-879-4935.
Playworks Detroit, launched in September of 2010, and is currently bringing organized play and recess to 10 elementary schools 8000 in Detroit. Playworks also integrates other programs into their curriculum which improve student’s chances to succeed, not only academically, but also their physical, social and emotional development. Founded in 1996, Playworks is the only national nonprofit organization in the country to send trained, full-time coaches to low-income, urban schools. Currently, Playworks serves more than 130,000 children in 300 low-income schools in 23 cities throughout the country every school day.
