Joy Collaborative
is truly a collaboration

We are powered by a dedicated group of impassioned volunteer designers, contractors, tradespeople, compassionate board members, generous financial sponsors, and invaluable donations from the community.

These folks are the heart and soul of what we do, and they're changing the lives of some seriously deserving kids and their families. It's like a big group hug of support and love. They're not just giving, they're making dreams come true, bringing smiles, and creating brighter futures.

Together, we're making magic happen!

Mark Ostrom

Founder, Executive Director & Creative Director

"THIS IS AMAZING!"

It’s a quote we hear often, and I’m thrilled that we consistently get such a strong reaction. It is not easy work, but for the youth we serve, we can never raise the bar too high.

There is a gap. A gap between care provided in a home or clinic setting, and all the activities that are involved in caring for a kid with a diagnosis. Joy Collaborative was created to champion youth with life-limiting medical conditions by harnessing the power of design to build one-of-a-kind environments that bring delight, enhance independence, create community, and foster well-being.

Abbey Morton

Head of Joyful Operations

I’m honored to join the Joy Collaborative team! As a former educator and dedicated community advocate, I’m passionate about creating inclusive, empowering spaces for all. Contributing to environments that bring joy, accessibility, and enrichment to those with life-limiting conditions is a true privilege and deeply meaningful to me.

Board of Directors

Nicole Deters

Joy Collaborative's mission is an essential one in our communities. I have spent my entire career giving back to those in need. Joining the board of Joy Collaborative is another way to do that in my personal life too.

Kaitlin Strand

With a passion for business operations and giving back to the community, I’ve joined the Joy Collaborative board to be able to amplify the mission of reaching children and families who need that bright spot of joy in life's most challenging times.

Michelle Arulfo

Joy rooms bring life-enhancing joy into the home. An entire family is impacted by the healing and stimulating environment. I believe joy rooms transform the future of the youth, their families, and the community.

Jen Roth

I’m honored to join the Joy Collaborative board because I believe everyone deserves a space that uplifts them—especially during tough times. Living with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis since age nine has given me both challenges and a unique perspective. That experience fuels my passion for creating supportive, inspiring environments. I’m eager to bring my skills as an entrepreneur and marketer to advance Joy Collaborative’s mission and serve vulnerable communities across Minneapolis.

Melanie Zaelich

Being able to help bring happiness to someone is an amazing experience. I joined the Board of Directors to help spread the word (and joy) about Joy Collaborative so we can serve even more youth. These amazingly strong young people deserve as much happiness as possible.

Kathy Jalivay

I contribute to Joy Collaborative because I believe a safe and appealing environment can be a powerful and impactful conduit to thriving.

Summer D. Miller, Ed.D.

I've spent years navigating the unique needs and gifts of my children who have an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis. This journey can feel overwhelming, but we don't have to travel it alone. I am excited to create pathways for other families who desire an inclusive experience that brings out their children's joy, beauty, and brilliance.

Tim Harris

My reason for serving is simple — I’m allowed to use my skills to affect change and bring joy to people in the community around me. Joy Collaborative’s mission aligns closely with a core belief of mine; that everyone deserves a beautiful, accessible space where they can thrive, create, and connect.

Heather Nemer

Having been personally affected by medical issues in since childhood, I am passionate about supporting families dealing with similar challenges. As a people-person with a love for design and children, I'm enthusiastic about making a difference as the Events Chair for the organization.
Want to join me designing great experiences? Call me at (612) 247.3630