When schools closed and afterschool programs paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, many children—especially those in low-to-moderate income households—lost access to a vital part of their development: play.

For PlayFreedom Co. (PFC), that wasn’t just a setback—it was a call to action.

Reclaiming Play in Challenging Times

PlayFreedom Co. is one of the most recent recipients of the American Heart Investment Community Foundation’s “Resilient Communities – COVID-19 Needs” grant. This funding initiative supports organizations that stepped up to serve communities hit hardest by the pandemic—and who continue to adapt and rebuild stronger than before.

PFC’s mission is rooted in one fundamental belief: every child deserves the right to play. Through its unique “PlayFreedom” model, the organization develops economically, socially, and environmentally just play environments. And more than just fun, these spaces foster real growth—offering children a chance to take risks, solve problems, explore materials, and even learn the importance of making mistakes.

As the pandemic disrupted daily life, PlayFreedom leaders noticed a disturbing trend: afterschool programming, when available, often served only families who could afford it. Children from lower-income households were being left out—not just from educational support, but from joy, discovery, and safe spaces to play.

“We knew we couldn’t sit back,” one PFC leader shared. “The pandemic showed just how fragile access to play really is—and how urgent our mission had become.”

Community Collaboration in Action

In response, PlayFreedom Co. turned to community. With the support of the AHIG Resilient Communities grant, they formed a powerful new partnership with Unbroken Promise Ventures (UPV), a grassroots nonprofit rooted in the West End community. Together, they’re building play opportunities by the community, for the community—starting with the training and hiring of five local adults as Playworkers, 80% of whom will come from low-to-moderate income backgrounds.

This partnership marks a new chapter in both organizations’ missions. UPV, known for its neighborhood revitalization and racial justice work, brings deep community trust and on-the-ground experience. PlayFreedom brings an evidence-based approach to play-centered development. Together, they’re launching seasonal afterschool programs at three key locations: Southside Community Center, Titus Flats, and West Village—spanning spring (12 weeks), fall (8 weeks), and summer (6 weeks).

Why Play Matters—Now More Than Ever

According to Sensory Surroundings, play isn’t just entertainment—it’s essential. Through play, children develop confidence, creativity, resilience, and the cognitive tools to navigate an unpredictable world. And in communities impacted by systemic inequality, creating access to play is a direct investment in justice and equity.

“This is more than a program,” a representative from UPV explained. “It’s a movement to restore what every child should have: safe, inclusive, joyful places to grow.”

Building Resilience for the Future

As we navigate a post-COVID world, the work of PlayFreedom and UPV serves as a blueprint for what real resilience looks like. It’s not just about recovery—it’s about transformation. Their work demonstrates that when organizations listen, collaborate, and invest in people first, communities thrive.

Congratulations again to PlayFreedom Co. and Unbroken Promise Ventures for embodying the spirit of the AHIG Resilient Communities initiative. Your commitment to children, equity, and the power of play is inspiring.

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Interested in getting involved or supporting PlayFreedom’s mission?

Learn more about their work and how you can contribute to creating play spaces that build stronger futures.