Celebrate Changemakers. Fuel the Future.
This summer, we’re lifting up the people who make change happen.
Through stories of people our community nominates, we’re celebrating the everyday leaders who shape our city and support our youth. It all starts here ↓
why?
There’s no shortage of challenges right now. But there’s no shortage of changemakers either.
Every day, people are doing the hard, hopeful work of creating opportunity for youth, families, and future generations. At Big Thought, we’ve had the honor of walking alongside many of them for nearly 40 years.
This summer, we’re sharing those stories. Mentors, artists, educators, and young leaders who are building stronger, more connected communities.
We’re also facing real funding challenges, as pandemic-era support ends and tough decisions hit youth programs citywide.
That’s why we’ve set a goal to raise $250,000 to sustain what’s working, support what’s needed, and invest in the next generation.
If you’re looking for some good news, you’ll find it here.
Nominate someone. Donate what you can. Help us keep the good going.
nominate
your changemaker
We’re kicking off this campaign by spotlighting changemakers from within the Big Thought community—those who have shaped us, led alongside us, and pushed us to think bigger.
Now it’s your turn.
1. Nominate a changemaker who inspires you
2. If you’re able, make a donation to Big Thought in their honor
3. Encourage others to do the same
Every story inspires another. Every donation helps us keep the work going.
full terms and conditions
Who Can Be Nominated: Nominees must have an active profile on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram. This allows Big Thought to tag honorees and enables nominees to take part in the Campaign’s storytelling on social media. There are (no geographic or age restrictions) – anyone can be nominated if they are creating positive change.
Who is a Changemaker? Eligible “Changemakers” include individuals making a positive impact in their community or field.
Limited Nominations: There is a nomination limit to how many people you can nominate. You may submit up to three nominations if you know several inspiring changemakers.
Who Can Nominate: Nominations can be made by any individual who wants to recognize someone’s positive impact. You can nominate friends, colleagues, mentors, community members, or anyone you feel is deserving. Those who nominate must have an active profile on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram.
Donation Encouragement: While not required, nominators are encouraged to donate to Big Thought in honor of each person they nominate. This suggested donation celebrates Big Thought’s nearly 40-year legacy and helps sustain its programs for the future. Your donation is a tribute to your nominee and supports Big Thought’s mission.
Recognition on Big Thought Platforms: Honorees chosen for the Campaign will be featured on Big Thought’s social media channels and website. Big Thought’s communications team will share their stories and achievements as part of the Campaign’s storytelling efforts, highlighting and celebrating their contributions.
Benefit Event (Optional): Some honorees may also be recognized at Big Thought’s Fall 2025 Benefit Event, where their contributions could be honored in person. (Participation in the event will be optional and subject to the event’s final planning.)
Use of Nominations: By submitting a nomination, you grant Big Thought permission to use the content you provide (such as the nomination story/description of your nominee’s impact, and any photos or media submitted) for campaign purposes. Big Thought may edit or adapt your submission for clarity or length and may use it in promotional materials related to the Campaign (such as social media posts, website features, press releases, or event materials).
Names and Likenesses: You also allow Big Thought to publicly use the names, likenesses, and biographical information of both the nominator (you) and the nominee for the purpose of highlighting the nomination and the changemaker’s story. This usage might include tagging the nominee on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram, and mentioning the nominator’s name as the person who nominated them.
Honoree Consent: If your nominee is selected as an honoree, Big Thought will contact them directly to obtain their consent before any major public recognition or use of their photos/story. Honorees have the right to decline public recognition. If an honoree does not consent to participation, Big Thought will not feature them in the campaign. Additionally, if a selected honoree is under 18 years old, consent from a parent or guardian will be required before any public recognition.
Agreement to Terms: By participating in the Big Thought Changemakers campaign (either by nominating someone or by agreeing to be an honoree), you acknowledge that you understand and agree to these Terms and Conditions.
Original Submissions: You affirm that the information in your nomination is truthful and that you have the right to share any content submitted. If you include a photo or quote, you must have the right to use it. Do not submit any material that you do not have permission to share.
Respect and Appropriateness: Nominations should be respectful and appropriate. Big Thought reserves the right to disqualify or disregard nominations that contain offensive, harmful, or irrelevant content.
No Compensation: Nominating someone or being selected as an honoree is an act of recognition. It does not involve any prize, financial reward, or compensation. The Campaign’s goal is purely to honor individuals and inspire community giving.
Right to Adjust Campaign: Big Thought reserves the right to extend, shorten, or otherwise modify the Campaign timeline or rules if necessary (for example, if technical issues arise or to ensure fairness and participation). Any changes will be communicated through Big Thought’s official channels.
Contact and Follow-Up: If needed, Big Thought may reach out to nominators or nominees for additional information or clarification about the stories submitted. By participating, you agree to be contacted for Campaign-related purposes.