About Playworks Utah
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 Utah
Founded in 1996, Playworks expanded to Utah in 2011. Playworks Utah serves low-income schools across Salt Lake and Davis Counties through our year-round, on-site support services. We’re also reaching thousands more students across Utah through professional development workshops for schools and youth organizations.
Our Core Values
Meet Our People
September 22, 2017
Desirae Arends ›
Desi began her journey with Playworks in 2014. She worked as a speech therapist in Nebraska with elementary-aged children for three years prior. After learning about the power of play and how Playworks helps children grow socially and emotionally, she…
August 23, 2022
Ashley Engeler ›
Ashley joined Playworks Utah in 2013 as an Americorps Member with an extensive background in childcare and youth development programming. Her journey with the organization has curated a deep passion for educational equity and expanding platforms for community impact. She…
September 28, 2022
Mariana Sine ›
Prior to Playworks, Mariana had been working with children for 6 years and loved every moment. She is excited to be a part of something that will really make a difference in not only the children’s lives but hers as…