About PlaySmart

Created in 1997 by a group of alumni from Princeton University, PlaySmart, Inc., is a 501©(3) public charity who helps underserved 5^th through 8^th grade students realize their academic and life potential through sports.   Governed by a ten member board of directors, the organization has programs and outreach in several U.S. cities including Denver, Omaha, New York City, Newark (NJ), Oklahoma City, Baltimore and Tampa Bay.  PlaySmart’s headquarters are in Tampa Bay.

As socioeconomic disparities often means that certain groups of children do not have access to quality athletic and academic programming, PlaySmart works to level the playing field by offering opportunities and programming that foster positive youth development.  These include:

• Branded Programs (PlaySmart Academy)
• Scholarships (support of student-athletes to further their development)
• Partnerships (mini-grants to mission similar organizations, leagues and programs)

PlaySmart has invested over one million dollars since its inception back into the communities it serves through the above strategies.  Thousands of young people across the country have been impacted.   In 2011, PlaySmart took a major leap forward and launched its own form of unique summer camps in three of its cities allowing for hundreds of young people to play sports and learn crucial life skills.  The camp program expanded to four cities in 2012 and was rebranded and named the PlaySmart Academy.  By introducing young people to new possibilities, we hope to broaden their perspective, raise their aspirations and level the playing field for all.

Our Mission

PlaySmart’s Mission is to help kids reach their academic and life potential through sports.

Our Vision

America’s children will have the necessary skills, abilities and values to be successful academically and in life.