Playworks: One Year Later

  1. Updates

One year ago…

All of our partner schools closed their buildings and our work serving kids in schools risked coming to a halt. We knew our mission had to continue. We remained committed to providing opportunities for joy and connection through play for kids in a COVID safe way, regardless if their school was virtual, in-person and socially distanced, or hybrid. 

With the support of our communities, we successfully developed new ways to share the #powerofplay. Watch this video to see highlights of our accomplishments, which would not have been possible without a supportive community filled with people like you.

Support our ongoing work. Donate today

More Updates


Vincent speaking to students
Vincent speaking to students

May 15, 2023

Let’s Create a Brighter Future Through Play ›

I am so thrilled to continue my journey with the Playworks Michigan team after joining as Executive Director in November 2022.  After only a few months I have had the opportunity to experience firsthand the outstanding passion of Playworks Coaches, Site Coordinators, program staff, board, and volunteers, who are the heart of this organization.  Through…

January 10, 2023

Understanding the Complex Simplicities of Play ›

Play is a behavior that is natural and has existed for thousands of years and across species. It combines a set of made-up rules or norms and a willingness to explore. Researchers, scientists, and doctors have studied the effects of play on kids–and adults–and understand that this natural behavior has tremendous benefits. As the American…

three people with Playworks shirts
three people with Playworks shirts

July 28, 2022

A year of social and emotional learning ›

“You can’t do SEL, trauma, or equity work without each other,” Jennette Claassen, Head of Evaluation, Playworks. As Playworks continued to progress on our equity journey, we explored a critical question: what are the intersections between play, social and emotional learning, physical activity, and trauma? A working group focused on this question decided, among other…