About Playworks Southern California
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 Southern California
Founded in 1996, Playworks expanded to Southern California in 2009. Playworks Southern California serves low-income schools through our year-round, on-site support services. We’re also reaching thousands more students across Southern California 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 13, 2025
Tessa Waite ›
Tessa was born and raised in Minnesota and started with Playworks in 2021 as a Site Specialist in Denver. She now works as a Pro Trainer in San Diego. In…
September 3, 2024
Evelyn Rodriguez ›
Going into my fourth year with Playworks, I’m excited to step into a new role as Program Specialist. I’m passionate about implementing safe and healthy play and driven by the…
August 24, 2021
Nathaniel Manzano ›
Nathaniel “Coach Nate” Manzano began his career with Playworks as an AmeriCorps Program Coordinator in August 2015. He served his first two years at Lincoln Elementary in Santa Ana Unified…