The Change Lab Manifesto
We believe the best way to fix what’s not working is by working together.
Mission
We build stronger, more resilient communities through shared understanding and connection.
About Us
The Change Lab is a nonpartisan initiative that helps neighbors connect, build trust, and take action together. We create tools, host gatherings, and publish research to strengthen civic life and community connection. We don’t aim to win arguments — we build shared understanding, because understanding leads to trust, and trust makes civic participation possible.
We bring people together to solve problems locally. We aggregate opportunities for neighbors to engage and equip them with resources and platforms that make civic collaboration accessible, effective, and lasting.
What We Do
The Civic and Social Club: A community-led initiative that centers mutual support, shared experiences, and meaningful relationships. We build trust not by pushing agendas, but by creating space for small acts of connection.
Digital Tools & Programs: We apply entrepreneurial thinking to civic life. Our digital platform, training modules, and Civic Impact Engine App help people build civic habits, measure impact, and stay connected.
Gatherings: Through structured events, storytelling, and facilitated dialogue, we bring people together to build trust, spark ideas, and foster civic participation.
What Informs Us
Community Research: We conduct field research, surveys, and interviews to surface insights from lived experience. These findings shape the tools, training, and strategies we share back with communities.
Why It Matters
We believe that connection is a public good. It strengthens families, schools, businesses, and neighborhoods. And it’s essential for a healthy democracy.
When people trust one another, they solve problems faster and build stronger communities. Our work is about making that possible — not through politics, but through people.
The Economic Case for Connection
Disconnected workplaces cost the U.S. $154 billion annually in lost productivity.
Social ties improve local business outcomes, investment retention, and workforce participation.
Cross-class friendships are a top predictor of upward mobility.
Communities with strong civic bonds bounce back faster from economic shocks.
Civic connection isn’t charity — it’s infrastructure.
Theory of Change
When people are seen, supported, and equipped — participation follows. Trust grows. Leadership emerges. And communities get stronger.
Our Values
Personal Responsibility – Strong communities start with people who show up.
Respectful Dialogue – We don’t have to agree to move forward.
Local First – Neighbors know what works. We trust them to lead.
Earned Trust – Relationships are built over time, not promised up front.
Practical Action – We care about what works. Impact is the measure.
Who This Is For
People who feel disconnected or discouraged.
Neighbors who want to get involved.
Students and leaders looking to make an impact.
Anyone who wants to help build something better — from the ground up.
