scalejoy.org
scalejoy.org
Modern life takes place within fully built-out systems of distraction and a loneliness epidemic.
rec·re·a·tion is a nonprofit organization and a social sculpture: an experiment to build scalable structures for individual flourishing. In short, to scale joy.
We're inspired by the AA fellowship model — decentralized, member-run, fully self-sufficient autonomous groups — and grounded in Aristotelian friendships of virtue and bell hooks' definition of love. Our belief: a sense of both purpose and belonging is critical to thriving.
Learn more about our programs.
what we do
Our gatherings come in three formats — play (peer-led creative activity), pause (guided reflection and discussion), and restore (value-setting and accountability). A weekly pilot runs in Chicago, hosted by members in rotation.
We're writing The PlayBook — our field guide, modeled on the "Big Book" — so any group, anywhere, can adopt the format and run their own.
See the programs.
the foundation
recreation foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity based in Evanston, Illinois, led by an all-volunteer board. Everything we make — the gatherings, the curriculum, The PlayBook — is offered to participants at no cost.
who's behind it
stay in touch
tony@scalejoy.org