This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Playworks Utah is a nonprofit helping children build healthier lives through physical activity and meaningful play. Celebrating 15 years of impact, Playworks partners with more than 50 elementary schools across Utah. Executive Director, Desi Arends, joins us with more.
Desi Arends:
At Playworks Utah, we believe play brings out the best in every kid. But recess can become a source of conflict and lost classroom time. In Utah, only 14% of children get an hour of daily physical activity, and one in four youth reports feeling isolated.
Without active connection, kids miss opportunities to build resilience, teamwork and communication skills. Playworks partners with Utah schools to transform recess through proven proactive strategies, student leadership and positive adult role models.
When play is intentional, schools report physical activity increasing by 43%, and classroom engagement rising by 73%. Play isn’t just a break from learning; it is learning. We’ve brought the power of play to 175 schools and 22,000 students across Utah.
Help us reach every student, school and community by supporting the power of play. Learn more or donate at Playworks.org/Utah.
Derek Miller:
Playworks is helping Utah children build confidence, friendships and healthy habits through the power of play. Their work is creating safer, more connected school communities where every child has the opportunity to thrive. I’m Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.
