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 Core Values
Meet Our People


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 with children all her life. From running a full Sunday…


November 9, 2021
Zokwymere Lawton ›
Zok Lawton is a Program Specialist for Playworks New York/New Jersey region. He joined Playworks as an AmeriCorps Coach in 2016 and has moved up in the organization to recently be named Program Specialist. Zok strongly believes in the power…


September 19, 2022
Andrew Yansen ›
Andrew Cebul-Yansen joins Playworks after spending over a career working in direct service of education, counseling, and nonprofit organizations. He was born and raised in Rochester, New York and is excited to bring his talents of leadership and engagement to…