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Nex started the Playground for Good program to share happiness in the places it matters most.
We see every Playground donation as planting a seed of play. From hospitals and nonprofits to community spaces like libraries and YMCAs, we hope that each unit brings children and families new ways to smile. And sometimes, the results stretch way beyond our expectations.
Recently, Nex donated a Playground to Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital in New York, where it’s become a staple of the Family Resource Center. Patients and caregivers gather around daily for open play between treatments, filling the space with laughter and movement. Because Playground is easy to set up, staff can even load it onto a mobile cart and bring it directly to those children with less mobility.
Some of the most-played titles at Golisano include Fruit Ninja, Starri, Mirrorama, Arrow Party, Basketball Knockout, and Galax, a puzzle game that's been used by physical therapists to support therapy sessions.
But among all their favorites, one stands out. Homerun Heroes: Starstrikers, a home run derby style game, connects kids to something larger than gaming—and it set the stage for a very special visit.
When Nex made Homerun Heroes, we pictured friends and family of all ages playing together. We never imagined that our game would bring professional baseball players and fans together, but that’s exactly what happened when the Syracuse Mets made a special visit to the Golisano Performance Center in late July.
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The kids were all smiles when the team arrived for a full day of play. Activities like signing autographs, making slime, and moving with Playground filled the schedule.
Gina Lozieto, Golisano’s Manager of Child Life and Creative Arts, said the visit allowed the children a moment to just be worry-free kids. “Being able to make the kids smile and happy and not think about maybe why they are here or anything else that is going on in their lives…", that is something truly special.
The release of Homerun Heroes: Starstrikers and this visit from the Mets happened completely by chance, a coincidence that turned into something bigger. Nex donated Playground, the Mets were generous with their time, and together, a simple act of giving became a home run moment of joy.
“It’s awesome,” said Mets pitcher Justin Hagenman. “Some of these kids have been through a lot, and anytime we can come here, it’s special. We’re super fortunate to do what we do, so if we’re in a position to give back, it’s good to be here.”
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For kids navigating hospital stays, a moment of play can be a breath of fresh air. A chance to forget schedules, treatments, and worries, even for just a little while. Playground, with its motion controls, encourages patients to get active, and many games can be played from a bed or wheelchair, allowing nearly all patients to join in the fun.
Know a hospital, school, or community organization that could use Playground? Nominate them for a Playground for Good donation, and help plant a seed of play and joy.
