About Playworks Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania
Founded in 1996, Playworks expanded to Pennsylvania in 2010. Playworks Pennsylvania serves low-income schools across Philadelphia through our year-round, on-site support services. We’re also reaching thousands more students across Pennsylvania 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
December 5, 2022
Joshua Casares ›
Born in Ecuador and raised in South Jersey, Josh first came to the city of Philadelphia to study at Drexel University. Upon graduating with a bachelors in Mechanical Engineering he…
April 25, 2023
Tia Mathisen ›
Tia Mathisen is the Playworks Pennsylvania Executive Director. A native of Birmingham, Alabama, and mom to three, Tia has lived in Philly for well over a decade, and has planted…
December 5, 2022
Ivy Olesh ›
Ivy Olesh (she/her) is the Vice President for Field Operations, supporting a multi-region HUB including Michigan, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and North Carolina. A strong supporter of public education…