Mission To strengthen civic life and community connection through nonpartisan tools, research, and programs that help people build trust, act together, and participate in public life.
Our Strategic Vision
By 2030, The Change Lab will activate tens of thousands of neighbors across the U.S. through a replicable civic engagement framework grounded in trust, measurable action, and shared understanding — starting in Houston.
Our Values
Curiosity over certainty – We value honest questions more than easy answers.
Service over spotlight – We’re here to strengthen communities, not chase attention.
Trust over transactions – Relationships matter more than metrics.
Practice over perfection – Civic engagement is a habit, not a headline.
Common ground over ideology – You don’t have to agree with us to belong here.
Our Commitment to Social Connection
Extensive research confirms this. The 2025 Connection Opportunity report by More in Common found that over 70% of Houstonians want to connect across lines of difference but lack the opportunity. The Othering & Belonging Institute identifies social connection as essential for bridging divides and building inclusive societies. Pew Research reports growing social isolation across age groups and political affiliations, underlining the urgency of our work.
Every program we create is designed to reduce isolation, foster relationships, and build the human infrastructure that makes democracy work.
To strengthen civic life and community connection through nonpartisan tools, research, and programs that help people build trust, act together, and participate in public life.