We put humanity at the center of learning.
Which means we design the systems, stories, and relationships that let young people thrive — and in doing so, strengthen our democracy.
our mission
We create the conditions for young people to grow into their power — grounded in history, connected to community, and supported in their wellbeing.
our vision
We imagine a world where:
Adolescence is treated as a time of creation and becoming.
Schools, museums, libraries, and communities work together as ecosystems of belonging and contribution.
Young people are trusted to matter and care.
In this world, civics isn’t a subject. Where civic thriving is at the core of growing up.
how we work
Voice + Narrative
Shifting imagination through youth-led storytelling and bold thought leadership.
Products + Tools
Design science-backed curricula, games, and civic learning resources.
Networks + Ecosystems
Weaving coalitions that turn silos into synergy.
Scaling What Works
Using research and data to grow
what lasts, with integrity and trust.
what makes us different
We co-design with teens.
Their brilliance is our compass.We unite history, humanities, and learning science.
We are system-builders and movement partners,
not just program providers.We co-design in relationship with communities
We are trusted by leading institutions,
like Carnegie and Kauffman.
our values in action
Teens are magnificent.
Their ideas guide our work.Hope wins.
We speak with clarity and possibility.Play is our posture.
Curiosity and joy fuel discovery.“Co” is a superpower.
We build across generations, sectors, and systems.We think in generations.
We act with care for the past and responsibility to the future
impact
For five years, we’ve partnered with schools, museums, and communities to make teen thriving a lived reality:
our story
The Co:Lab was born from a 2024 merger of two pioneering organizations:
History Co:Lab was founded to strengthen democracy by transforming history education.
iThrive Games is a research and design studio specializing in learning for adolescent thriving.
Together, we combine deep roots in history, adolescent development, and networks across fields and silos with a bold vision for the future.
Our logo reflects this connectivity: a tree with roots and networks, symbolizing growth, connection, and civic thriving.
Experiential civics is teen-centered, community-connected learning in history, arts, and the humanities. We focus on giving young people opportunities to be curious and active learners who can and will contribute to our common purpose.