Who We Are

Jacqueline Scherer, LMSW, RPT™ is a seasoned professional with over twenty-three years of experience and Michigan's 2025 Michigan Play Therapist of the Year.

Jacqueline is both a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Registered Play Therapist ™. As a foster parent for over thirteen years, and a mother to three children, Jacqueline has demonstrated her commitment to promoting healing through play, both in her home and community. Jacqueline has led various initiatives such as Stand Up For Kids Olympia, WA Chapter and Co-pioneering the first THP+ Program in San Diego, CA. 

She has also contributed significantly to the field by piloting a traumatic grief curriculum for children, advocating for educational rights, and serving as a crisis clinician for children in Kent County. Jacqueline's dedication extends beyond direct practice as she actively engages in teaching and speaking engagements, sharing her expertise in grief, trauma, and play with clinicians, teachers, and community members. 

Her recent endeavor, THE PLAYGROUNDgr Podcast, further amplifies her mission by inviting local experts to share their insights on healing through play. Jacqueline's passion for play therapy and play-based strategies led her to create THE PLAYGROUNDgr, driven by the belief that everyone deserves access to the healing power of play. 

Through her ongoing leadership roles, such as sitting Board Member of the Michigan Association of Play Therapy and her leadership role as Chair of the Midtown Neighborhood Association, Jacqueline continues to advocate for safe and accessible play and play therapy services for all.

Fatima Vazquez is dedicated to enhancing community support as the Youth Program Coordinator at THE PLAYGROUNDgr. With a strong passion for supporting children and families, Fatima brings a deep commitment to fostering positive change through innovative play-based strategies.

In her role, Fatima plays a vital part in advancing THE PLAYGROUNDgr’s mission. She supports programming both in school curriculums and in youth-centered events across various community spaces. Her responsibilities include organizing youth-focused community opportunities, managing volunteers involved in child-based activities, and contributing to the organization's camps and training sessions.

Fatima’s background includes a Bachelor of Social Work internship with THE PLAYGROUNDgr, where she gained valuable experience working with children and families through community events, day camp programming, and other initiatives. Her skills extend to building and maintaining strong partnerships with families, school teams, and community organizations, ensuring the ongoing growth and impact of the program.

Passionate about the transformative power of play, Fatima is dedicated to upholding THE PLAYGROUNDgr’s mission and values. She is excited to contribute to the organization’s success and support the community through the healing and empowering effects of play.