give play another life

Our Story

Play it Forward was founded in Palm Beach, Florida, and inspired by the story of the Perez family's son, whose life was forever changed shortly after birth.

After developing bacterial neonatal meningitis as a newborn, he was left with permanent neurological and developmental brain injury. What began as an incredibly difficult chapter for one family eventually became the inspiration to create something with a greater purpose, something that could turn their experience into an opportunity to give forward.

From that vision, Play it Forward was born.

We are a purpose-driven marketplace giving new and gently loved toys, books, clothing, shoes, collectibles, and other childhood items another life. We believe quality items shouldn't lose their value simply because a child has outgrown them.

By keeping these items in circulation, we hope to encourage families to purchase more consciously, reduce unnecessary waste, and rethink the cycle of overconsumption and overproduction.

But our purpose goes beyond sustainability.

Brighter Futures

The experience that inspired Play it Forward also created a deeply personal connection to childhood neurological and developmental conditions.

That's why a portion of our proceeds supports organizations advancing pediatric neurological and developmental research, education, and care.

For us, this isn't simply a cause. It's part of our story.

Our hope is that continued research can lead to greater understanding, better resources, new possibilities, and brighter futures for children and families navigating neurological and developmental challenges.

Growing Our Impact

Play it Forward is only the beginning of what we hope to build.

As we grow, our long-term vision is to establish a charitable organization that can expand our impact through toy drives, back-to-school initiatives, holiday giving, community programs, and direct support for children and families in need.

Until then, we're building toward that future one item, one purchase, and one conscious choice at a time.

Every Item Has a Purpose

Whether it's a toy ready for another childhood, clothing ready for another adventure, or a purchase that helps us contribute toward research, we believe what already exists can continue creating value.

Less waste. More purpose. Brighter futures.

What started with one child's story is being built with the hope of making a difference in the lives of many more.

PL8-Forward
Play it. Love it. Pass it forward.