We put humanity at the center of learning.
The Co:Lab is a design and innovation lab for civics and the humanities.
We create the tools, experiences, and networks that communities need to help young people grow into their ability and desire to shape a democratic future — grounded in history, connected to community, and supported in their wellbeing
our why
Our current learning systems do not produce civic thriving.
The current model of schooling is leaving too many teens feeling disengaged, disconnected and discouraged.
We’re here to change that.
our core belief
The key to a better future is deeper, experiential civic learning.
We approach civics not as a subject, but as the process of unfolding one’s humanity.
We see that through deeper, experiential learning journeys in schools, museums, libraries, and communities, ALL teens can gain belonging, agency, purpose, and mattering. They grow into curious learners and kind problem-solvers—able to handle conflict, design solutions, and shape the future of democracy. We are working with partners to make these experiences the norm in schools and communities worldwide.
We start with what theresearch shows
We design with teens every step of the way
why it works
We partner with institutions that know how to scale and sustain change
We co-design in relationship with our core communities (KC, Pittsburgh, Dallas)
where it works
schools
museums
archives
neighborhoods
online communities
Science says: all young people hold endless possibility.
In a recent article co-written with our research partner Dr. Pamela Cantor, we explain the Science of Experiential Civics, and why it must be a priority in school redesign.
what we do
We are innovators and weavers.
We are a Civic Innovation Lab working to ensure that ALL young people grow up ready to engage in their community with a commitment to democracy, knowing their place in the world.
We combine learning science, history, adolescent development, and systems change in four core services.
Thought Leadership
We are sought-after speakers and writers shaping the national and global conversation on civic innovation and teen thriving, through publications, keynotes, and public events.
Product Design
We develop curriculum, games, media products, and training tools that activate belonging, purpose, and agency.
Strategic Advising
We partner with schools, museums, foundations, and civic institutions to align strategy, shift practice, and embed the science of adolescent civic thriving.
Convening + Weaving
We bring leaders together across silos to spark collaboration, build ecosystems, and accelerate scale.
“You are masters of loving, relationship-centered co-creation; You gave me and the kids we brought to the work hope for what is possible.”
— Big Thought, Dallas
impact
Ways we are changing the game:
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“100 Docs Game” with the National Archives for America250
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U.S. History curriculum co-created with teens, commissioned by Carnegie Foundation and XQ
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Award-winning intergene-rational Teen-led history podcast, UnTextbooked
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Civic Learning Ecosystem in Pittsburgh
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Game Design studio with Big Thought Youth to shift adult mindsets
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Teen-Centered Civics primer and 18x18 Civic Thriving Framework
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Real World Humanities Ecosystem in Kansas City
our network approach
We co-create with people and organizations who share our vision for teen thriving and civic renewal.
We are designers and weavers, always seeking to catalyze collaborations to bring the best of different institutions to transform the system.
Civic thriving starts with people like you.
join the movement
Whether you're 17 or 70, there's a way for your to engage with us.
Join our teen co-designer network to help shape the tools and environments that support teen thriving.
Allow your ideas to be heard and get paid doing it.
I'm an Educator
Access curriculum, professional development training, and tools that work for teens.
Join a growing community that centers how teens learn.
I'm a Partner
Invest in bold, evidence-backed work.
Collaborate with us to innovate and scale teen-centered civic learning.
our story
The Co:Lab was born from a 2024 merger of two pioneering organizations:
History Co:Lab
Founded to strengthen democracy by transforming history education.
iThrive Games
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.
