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.

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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.

Meet our Service Partners

Learn about our Impact

Read the Playworks Equity Statement

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.

Our Core Values

core values graphic

Meet Our People


April 3, 2019

Daniel Speciale ›

Daniel Speciale joins 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…

July 29, 2022

Jen Kline-Galkin ›

Jen Kline-Galkin is the Social Media and Marketing Manager for Playworks New York/New Jersey, where she leverages her diverse background in Advertising and the Food and Beverage industry to create…

September 19, 2022

Jasmine Hamlett ›

Jasmine Hamlett is a Program Specialist for Playworks New York/New Jersey. Jasmine started her journey with Playworks as an AmeriCorps member serving as a recess coach. Jasmine has been working…

Join the Team


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

Open positions