We create life-enriching spaces
for youth with
life-limiting conditions
Because every child deserves a space that brings out their best
Joy Collaborative is a 501©(3) nonprofit organization serving youth in need. We are based in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Joy Collaborative was inspired by a desire to champion for kids and youth living with conditions that limit their activity and often keep them isolated.
Harnessing the power of design, we create one-of-a-kind "Joy Rooms" that bring delight, enhance independence, create community and foster well-being.
We are a partnership of impassioned doers and givers.
Designers, architects, builders, donors, volunteers and sponsors come together to transform environments from a place kids have to be to a setting where they — and others — want to be.
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In addition to helping individual families, Joy Rooms are accessible to more than 5,000 kids through public spaces and facilities.
Our Impact
20%
of Minnesota's youth under 18 are living
with a disability.
145,893
of them live in the
7-county Metro Area
7,125
people can currently access Joy Rooms in the Twin Cities
RESULT
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Bringing kids hope
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Enhancing physical and mental health & well-being
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Combatting social isolation
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Facilitating daily living
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Fostering community
Recent News
Backyard playhouse with zip line is wish come true for Minnesota boy with cystic fibrosis
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Just about any kid would be thrilled to be gifted with an outdoor getaway that includes hammocks, a zip-line, a curving slide, a rock climbing wall, a library stocked with more than 300 graphic novels and even a secret door — accessed by pulling a hidden lever — that leads to an escape-hatch ladder. (Heck, even a few adults might think this sounds like a dream come true.)
Get Involved
We couldn't do this critical
life-impacting work without the generous support from you. There are many ways you can help contribute — from donations to volunteer work.
Pass It On®
The Dream Builder.
Mark Ostrom and the Joy Collaborative customize spaces for children with physical and emotional needs.
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Stephen Wunderli is a freelance writer for The Foundation for a Better Life and The Denver Gazette. He is the recipient of the United Nations Time for Peace award, and the Bridport Prize in literature.
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Mark Ostrom shares his personal journey and the inspiration behind his nonprofit, which creates life-enriching spaces for kids and youth with life-limiting conditions. From his early vision in college to his impactful role in designing the Rainforest Cafe, Mark’s story reveals how Joy Collaborative came to life.
Discover how Joy Collaborative’s mission aligns with PowerHouse SMART’s focus on luxury design and community impact and learn how their 2025 partnership will amplify the nonprofit’s reach—uniting the luxury design industry to champion humanity. Tune in for insights on gratitude, collaboration, and the transformative power of design.
Plus: Find out about the upcoming April 17 event in Minnesota and how you can support this meaningful cause.
April 17, PowerHouse SMART Event Link: PHS Education + Friend-Raising with Joy Collaborative
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Join the
Burrito Bigrade
Spread the joy for the cost of just one burrito a month.
Your tasty donation, no matter how small, helps us create amazing spaces that can transform children's lives. It's a fun and easy way to make a big impact. So, let's roll up our sleeves and burritos together for a brighter future.
Every burrito brings a smile!
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