About Playworks New York/New Jersey
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 New York/New Jersey
Founded in 1996, Playworks expanded to New York/New Jersey in 2009. Playworks New York/New Jersey serves low-income schools across the area through our year-round, on-site support services. We’re also reaching thousands more students across New York/New Jersey 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
April 3, 2019
Daniel Speciale ›
Daniel Speciale joined Playworks as a Regional Pro Trainer in Western New York responsible for delivering Playworks professional development training for youth-facing staff. Most recently he was a human services…
October 9, 2025
Machi Duncan Hoppie ›
Machi Duncan Hoppie, raised in Staten Island, New York, is currently the Site Coordinator for Playworks New York/New Jersey. Now in her third year with the organization, she remains passionate…
September 22, 2017
Basheer Smith ›
Bash joined Playworks in 2015 as a Playworks AmeriCorps Coach and has since advanced to become the Director of Impact & Strategic Partnerships for the New York/New Jersey region. In…