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
Reimagining Civic Life in Dallas Through Youth-Led Dialogue
Big Thought, a Dallas nonprofit, brought young people and adults together for civic dialogue centered on youth voice, trust, and shared community.
Read More
Volunteering With Young People: An Investment in What’s Possible
At Big Thought, our work is rooted in partnership with young people—creating alongside them, not just for them. Volunteers are an important…
Read More
How Community Action Team Youth Are Shaping What’s Next
By Evelyn Torres, Marketing & Communications Intern at Big Thought Young people in Big Thought’s Community Action Team (CAT) are stepping into…
Read More
The Opportunity Exchange Summit: Where Youth Voice, Community, and Cross-Sector Action Converge
By Kristina Cola, Sr. Director of Learning Systems at Big Thought Kristina Cola helps shape the strategies, partnerships, and learning experiences that…
Read More
Big Thought Featured: Creative Solutions Rewriting Futures for Justice-Involved Youth
Written by: Charlotte, Founder of Giving Tree Paper Co. We are honored to share that Big Thought has been profiled in a…
Read More
Big Thought: The Ecosystem Intermediary behind Dallas City of Learning
Written by: Merita Irby, strategic advisor, and Karen Pittman, editor-in-chief and publisher At Big Thought, we’ve always believed that learning happens everywhere…
Read More
Dreamkeeper™ Spotlight: Erin Offord
Chief Executive Officer | Big Thought Owning your power, claiming your space, and mastering the role — this is what Erin Offord,…
Read More
What Effective CEO Leadership Looks Like From the Board Seat
A midpoint reflection from a nonprofit board chair By Anthony Bégon, Board Chair, Big Thought I am roughly halfway through my tenure…
Read More
NBA Foundation Renews Its Investment in Big Thought
We’re grateful to share that the NBA Foundation has renewed its investment in Big Thought. This renewed support strengthens career readiness pathways that help…
Read More
BTI BRIEF – The Learning Ecosystem Effect: A Decade of Innovation Through Dallas City of Learning, January 2026
DCoL proves citywide ecosystems can distribute learning dosage and still deliver impact – while outlining the model, evidence, and policy steps for…
Read More