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
November 20, 2025
Cris Hinkley ›
Cris joined Playworks PA as an AmeriCorps Coach during the 2018-2019 school year, left to get his Bachelor’s in Social Work, and then came back in 2023. As a Program…
December 2, 2022
Sean Speers ›
As the Regional Program Manager, Sean brings years of experience in youth development and play-based programming to my new role with Playworks PA. After graduating from Kutztown University with a…
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…