Newman resident seeks nonprofit status for growing community youth playdates

Michael Campos, a Newman resident, told the City Council on March 25 that an informal weekend play program he started at Sherman Park has grown into a regular community activity and that he is exploring nonprofit status to support expansion and safety measures.

Campos said the gatherings began after a game of tag a few months ago and now average 40 to 60 children and their parents. He described a mix of activities — games such as red light/green light, sack races, dodgeball, arts and performance activities, and play equipment — and said the group includes children from public schools, homeschool families and children with special needs.

Campos said his goal in forming a nonprofit tentatively called the Campos Busy Bee Youth Foundation is to secure liability insurance, provide restroom access during events and create a safer, more inclusive space for children. He said he has spoken with Recreation Department staff (Ali) and representatives from other local partners, including Brett Powers of Powers Productions and a traveling library representative, and that he is seeking guidance on next steps.

Council members and members of the public responded positively and suggested coordinating with the city’s teen center and existing events such as movie nights. No council action or funding was requested or taken at the meeting; staff thanked Campos and encouraged him to continue coordinating with recreation staff.

Why it matters: The gatherings are an example of grassroots programming that can supplement existing city youth services; nonprofit status could enable better liability coverage and facility access but would require formal organization and compliance with city policies.

Staff follow-up: Recreation staff (Ally) and other city staff were asked to be points of contact, and Campos was encouraged to share contact information for follow-up. No formal city endorsement or funding was committed at the meeting.