Playworks recognized as a NYSS Champion

  1. Updates

Playworks becomes an NYSS Champion

Official National Youth Sport Strategy (NYSS) Champion web badgePlayworks is pleased to be recognized by the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as a National Youth Sports Strategy (NYSS) Champion.

As a NYSS Champion, Playworks has demonstrated our commitment to support safe, fun, inclusive, developmentally appropriate, and accessible youth sports opportunities. Playworks is recognized along with other NYSS Champions on health.gov as part of a growing network of organizations partnering with HHS to improve the youth sports landscape in America.

“We know children who obtain regular physical activity gain important physical and mental health benefits, which are more important than ever considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” explains Rear Adm. Paul Reed, M.D., deputy assistant secretary for health at HHS. “I’m thrilled to acknowledge the work of the NYSS Champions who are helping to foster a lifelong love of sports and physical activity for our Nation’s youth.”

The NYSS is a federal roadmap with actionable strategies for youth, adults who interact with youth,
organizations, communities, and public policy makers to increase participation in youth sports and
improve the youth sports experience. The NYSS vision is that one day all youth will have the opportunity,
motivation, and access to play sports. NYSS Champions are recognized for working towards achieving
this vision.

NYSS Champion is a service mark of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Used with
permission. Participation by Playworks does not imply endorsement by HHS/ODPHP.

About the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
ODPHP plays a vital role in keeping the Nation healthy through Healthy People 2030, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition, and other programs, services, and education activities. ODPHP is part of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health (OASH) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. To learn more about ODPHP visit health.gov or follow @HealthGov on Twitter and @HHSHealthGov on Facebook.

More Updates


February 25, 2026

Playworks Welcomes Three New Members to Board of Directors During 30th Anniversary Year ›

Raven Jemison, Jodi Bricker, and Oliver Nordlinger join at a pivotal moment as Playworks continues to innovate and expand access to play nationwide Oakland, California – Playworks, the national nonprofit…

February 20, 2026

Introducing the Playworks Facilitator Playbook ›

The newly released Playworks Facilitator Playbook is a library of ready-to-use lesson plans that help staff confidently lead games that keep kids active and learning through play, and is accessible…

February 11, 2026

4 Playful Takeaways from the Winter Olympics ›

It’s an exciting time as the 2026 Winter Olympics are underway. Many kids will watch the games, some aspiring to participate someday, others learning about new sports they’ve never seen…