Strengthening Communities Through Play Streets & Outreach

Building Stronger Communities in Wilmington, DE

The Rysheema J. Dixon Foundation is committed to strengthening communities in Wilmington and across Delaware by providing safe spaces, engagement opportunities, and essential resources for families. Established in honor of Rysheema J. Dixon, a dedicated leader and former Wilmington City Councilwoman, the foundation continues her vision of uniting neighborhoods through impactful programs like Play Streets. By fostering partnerships and empowering residents, we aim to create a future where every child and family has access to safe, inclusive, and enriching experiences.

A LEGACY OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND LEADERSHIP

Rysheema J. Dixon was a passionate public servant, advocate, and entrepreneur who dedicated her life to community development. She served on the Wilmington City Council, where she worked tirelessly to address social and economic disparities. Rysheema also founded RD Innovative Planning, a consulting firm focused on improving community-driven initiatives. Through her leadership, she launched programs that uplifted low-income neighborhoods, ensuring access to education, wellness, and public engagement opportunities. The foundation now carries forward her mission, continuing to inspire change in the communities and provide safe, recreational “playstreets” for the children of Wilmington, Delaware.

Creating Safe and Inclusive Neighborhoods

The foundation is dedicated to creating safe, inclusive, and active communities by promoting social engagement and youth development. Our flagship program, Play Streets, transforms city streets into car-free zones where children and families can interact, play, and build stronger relationships with their neighbors. In collaboration with local organizations, law enforcement, and healthcare providers, we also offer resources focused on public health, community outreach, and economic empowerment, ensuring a more vibrant Wilmington for future generations.

The Impact of Your Support

Dear Sponsor:

I hope this message finds you well! As the President of the Rysheema J. Dixon Foundation, I am reaching out to share with you the remarkable impact of your generosity and invite you to continue partnering with us in fostering vibrant, thriving communities through our Wilmington PlayStreets initiative.

Playstreets, founded by my daughter, the late Rysheema Dixon, serves as one of the cornerstones of community growth and family well-being in Wilmington. Thanks to your support and the support and partnership of other organizations, the program temporarily transforms neighborhood streets into safe, lively spaces where children can play freely, families can connect, and communities can unite.

View Photos of Rysheema Dixon and Our Community Events Below!

Your Impact So Far:

Approximately 500 children in 7 or 8 neighborhoods engaged in physical activities that promote health and wellness; from soccer games to hopscotch. They were fed with food and fun! Several adults channeled their inner child and participated as well!
Increased community connections- through interactive events with local law enforcement, First Tee Golf, the Delaware Blue Coats, Wilmington City Council, Wilmington Parks and Recreation, and DJ Timothy “Tim Dogg” Bayard, (just to name a few), we’ve taken steps to bring neighbors together to build trust and collaboration. They literally danced in the streets!
Safer neighborhoods-once notified of the events, the Police Community Engagement teams blocks off designated streets and, along with Wilmingtons local police officers, oversee and interact with children and residents during the event. This is a critical piece of PlayStreets goal to foster positive relationships between residents and local law enforcement.

Your contributions have been pivotal in creating these joyful, secure spaces. Families have shared how these events have brought smiles to their children’s faces and how Playstreets has provided a sanctuary in areas with limited access to parks or recreational facilities.

Impactful Partnerships and Community Support

Through strong partnerships with Wilmington Parks and Recreation, Christiana Care Hospital, and the Wilmington Police Engagement Unit, we provide services that go beyond recreation. Our initiatives focus on education, wellness, and safety, fostering trust between community members and local institutions. Testimonials from participants and partners highlight the foundation’s positive influence—families express gratitude for safe play spaces, and community leaders recognize our work in bridging gaps and strengthening relationships between residents and public organizations.

Continuing the Legacy:

In 2025, we aim (if possible), to expand the Playstreets initiative to more neighborhoods, introduce new play equipment, and enhance program offerings like educational workshops and health screenings. This vision is only possible with your support.

What the Community is Saying

“The Play Streets program has brought our neighborhood together like never before. It’s amazing to see families engaging, children playing safely, and local organizations working hand in hand.” — Wilmington Resident

“Rysheema Dixon’s vision lives on through this foundation. Her passion for community development continues to inspire us all.” — Local Business Owner