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Sunny

Meaningful connection in a modern world

Meet Sunny

An innovative nonprofit that helps foster more fulfilling relationships for greater social well-being

Meaningful connection in a modern world

Sunny leads the emerging social well-being category through a science-backed approach. Because, while social ties are critical to physical and mental health, people increasingly lack meaningful connection and a sense of belonging, despite our hyper-connected lives.

Our team of experts and scientists – in social well-being, human connection, and behavior change – are building practical tools for pursuing more authentic person-to-person connection. This positions us to help people drive significant positive change in their individual lives for a strengthened society and more meaningfully connected world.

Sunny’s approach

Nonprofit

Privately funded organization committed to our mission. Free consumer app. No ads. Full data privacy.

Expert-designed

Category experts and scientists in social well-being, human connection, and behavioral change.

Research-backed

Deeply researched, actionable tools and practical pathways that help foster authentic connection with others.

OUR Stories

With 8 billion people on this planet, we should not feel alone.

With advancements in technology, social media, the pandemic, and the fast pace of modern life (read: we are so busy doing everything else!), we are more disconnected than ever. I love that Sunny is working to tackle the issue of disconnection and foster happier, more connected communities.

Shannon K. Head of Operations

We create meaningful, human-centered solutions that contribute to a better world.

I work at Sunny because its mission to enhance social well-being aligns with my belief in the power of design to create positive change. Sunny’s commitment to improving social connections and overall well-being aligns with my values. Here, I can apply my skills to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Shirley M. Product Design Lead

Meet the team leading Sunny

Dan Barnes

Founder

Betsy Parker

Chief Executive Officer

Ros Bernstein

Chief Product Officer

Emily Sanford

Chief Marketing Officer

Jen Lipsey

Chief Growth Officer

Nicholas Head

Head of Content

Dr. Iain Smith

Head of Behavioral Science

Board of Directors

Dan Barnes

Barnes Family Foundation

Walter “Buck” Buckley

Seminal Capital Holdings

Rita DiPalma

MiCa Marketing, Inc.

Todd Sandler

CRED Technologies

Bryan C. Skarlatos

Kostelanetz & Fink, LLP

Science Advisors

Amy Vest

Steven Crane