Playworks Celebrates 20th Year Anniversary at Second Annual Get in the Game Gala

June 2016. New York

​Playworks celebrated its 20th year anniversary by raising more than $200,000 at the second annual New York Get in the Game Gala, recognizing Inspiring Leadership Honoree ESPN and Most Valuable Principal Heather Foster-Mann of Brooklyn’s PS 133 William A. Butler School. This school year, acclaimed nonprofit Playworks will provide safe, healthy and inclusive play for nearly 900,000 children in more than 1,800 elementary schools nationwide that reduce bullying, increase physical activity, improve learning and promote social and emotional skills.

The evening featured remarks from Olympic gold medalists Edwin Moses and Benita Fitzgerald Mosley, a live auction led by CK Swett, entertainment from Grammy nominated artist John Forte and international recording artist ELEW, recess games, a friendly ping pong tournament, plus food and drink. Funds raised support the expanding efforts of Playworks to bring the power of play to every girl and boy in New York and beyond.

To help make this event a success, Empire produced the fundraiser at the elegant Tribeca Rooftop venue where we transported guests from the ballroom to the playground on the transformed rooftop space. Attendees enjoyed stunning Manhattan views and experienced play through sophisticated and immersive activations of traditional recess games like Four Square, along with life sized installations of Chess, Jenga and Connect 4.

Working closely with Playworks, Empire served as the event producer, managing elements including venue, décor, technical production, and performing talent. Empire is a leading producer of fundraising events and we are honored that Playworks continues to work with us to produce successful events.

To support or learn more about Playworks, please visit www.playworks.org