Welcome to the Joy Lab

The Joy Lab is the beginning of a big dream we have for this island.

What is it?

So glad you asked! We believe that a big aspect of joy starts with belonging, and belonging involves being able to fully access a space. That's why space is at the center of our dream.Our island (Aquidnick Island) already does an incredible job creating inclusion, and we want to help continue building on that foundation through the Joy Lab—a fully inclusive overnight camp, retreat space, and business incubation hub for people with disabilities here in Newport County (RI).

Four people sit on the beach smiling at the camera

Tell Me More

We returned to the island after many years of supporting the disability space, through spaces as varied as summer camps (Zeno Mountain Farm and Camp Jabberwocky), music festivals (Newport Folk and Jazz Fest,) as well as through business inclubation (Remarkable Disability Tech Accelerator, National Federation of the Blind).We believe in the joy of inclusion and want to build more opportunities for our community.

Three people smile at the camera, a woman with blonde hair in a braid on the left, a man in a wheelchair in the middle, and a man on the right with light brown hair.

How Can I Help?

What a sweet question to ask! We would love your help in bringing this vision to life.Some big and small ways include:
Donations (we are finalizing our 501c3) Land donations and ideas (help us find a space)
Volunteer your skills (accountants, grant writers, builders, artists, joy makers, etc.) Join us! Sign up for our newsletter to get access to our events.Ready to be involved? Send us a note at [email protected]