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 2, 2022
Melissa A. Marston ›
Melissa’s core value is to champion young people and communities to create sustainable and innovative solutions. She strives to be the biggest cheerleader in what sparks joy and brings people…


December 5, 2022
Bridget Poisel ›
Bridget joined Playworks this year as a Program Specialist to help bring the power of play to students across Philadelphia, and is now a PRO Trainer! After spending the last…


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…