Who We Are
At Big Thought, empowering and equipping youth with the skills and tools to create their best lives and a better world is at the heart of everything we do.
As a national leader in this work, we are committed to driving change. We are a platform for every voice, a seat at the table for every young mind. We believe we are one of a kind individuals moving as one team. Through innovative programs, initiatives and collaborative partnerships, we uplift creativity, empower youth and build inclusive communities.
Empowering youth through creativity, community, and collaboration
Who we are
Our History
Big Thought has been a leader in youth empowerment since its founding in Dallas in 1987. Originally an affiliate of Young Audiences, the organization was established by civic leaders Edith O’Donnell and Mitch Jericho. Fast forward to 2004, our vision had outgrown our original name, leading us to become Big Thought—a name that reflects our big ideas and even bigger impact.
EXPLORE our history
Who we are
Our team
Our team is a group of passionate people dedicated to elevating youth voices and creativity every day. Meet the faces behind Big Thought who work to bring our mission to life.
MEET THE TEAM
Who we are
Connect
with Us
Have questions or want to get involved with Big Thought? Reach out to us today. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, investing in our mission, or learning more about our programs, our team is here to connect.
CONTACT US
In the News
Skill-Building, Mentorship, and Impact: Key Takeaways from Built for More Webinar
Check out our Built for More webinar recap, “The Importance of Youth Workers in Preparing Youth for the Future of Work”.
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How Do We Hold Onto Hope in Uncertain Times? (And Help Youth Do the Same)
Change is a constant, and with it often comes uncertainty. As educators, nonprofit leaders, and community advocates, we are not only responsible…
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7 Questions with Let The Beat Build
See how Big Thought program partner, Let The Beat Build uses music, technology, and mentorship to help young people turn their passion…
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What Youth Need from Us in 2025
Mentorship is more than just offering advice; it’s about fostering a trusted relationship. Using the insights shared by youth, that relationship can…
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Art, Advocacy, and Impact: Aria’s Story
Explore how Big Thought empowered Aria to use art, advocacy and impact to drive change through programs like Creative Solutions and Artivism.
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Empowering Youth Through Creativity: Fernanda’s Story
Discover how Fernanda, a teaching artist with Big Thought, uses creativity to empower justice-involved youth.
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Big Thought and PEAR Partner to Support Youth Resilience
Big Thought and Partnerships in Education and Resilience (PEAR) have partnered to expand the reach of PEAR’s Developmental Resilience Training, a research-backed…
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Big Thought Names Erin Offord As New Chief Executive Officer
Under Offord’s leadership, Big Thought is poised to expand its national impact, advancing education and driving transformative change for young people.
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Annual Report: A Year of Collective Impact
Check out Big Thought’s 2023 Annual Report to see the impactful milestones and stories that shaped this year.
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Big Thought Announces New Board Leadership And Members
DALLAS – July 15, 2024 – Big Thought is proud to announce the appointment of a new board chair, a dynamic leadership…
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