A national conversation.
Rooted in Spartanburg.

THRIVE 2026: Revisit the Ideas

THRIVE 2026: Weaving Stronger Communities brought together more than 400 national thought leaders, researchers and community partners in Spartanburg on October 29 to explore the role of social capital in expanding opportunity and economic mobility.

Throughout the day, speakers shared research, innovative approaches and practical strategies for building stronger relationships, creating pathways to opportunity and helping more children and young people thrive.

Dr. Raj Chetty

Harvard University | Director, Opportunity Insights

Creating Opportunity in Spartanburg by Investing in Social Connections

Dr. Chetty explored the relationship between social capital and economic mobility, sharing national research alongside data specific to Spartanburg. His presentation examined how neighborhoods, cross-income relationships and access to opportunity influence long-term economic outcomes. He also highlighted evidence-based strategies, including neighborhood revitalization, workforce development and innovative approaches to measuring and financing programs that improve economic mobility.

Christian Rhodes

Harlem Children's Zone | Chief Network Officer

Introduction to Harlem Children's Zone National Impact

Christian Rhodes shared how Harlem Children's Zone has worked to expand its place-based, cradle-to-career approach to communities across the country. His presentation highlighted the importance of coordinated services, neighborhood-based strategies, community leadership and systems change in creating sustainable pathways to opportunity. He also shared the organization's national impact and efforts to support communities in developing and scaling effective strategies.

Julia Freeland Fisher

Clayton Christensen Institute | Director of Education Research

The Missing Metric: Why Connection Matters for Students

Julia Freeland Fisher examined why who students know can be just as important as what they know. Drawing on research about social capital, she explored how relationships with mentors, peers, educators and employers influence students' access to information, support and opportunity. Her presentation highlighted strategies for intentionally building students' networks, measuring social capital and helping young people develop the skills to activate their relationships. She also examined the opportunities and risks artificial intelligence presents for human connection.

Lisa M. Lawson

President and CEO, Annie E. Casey Foundation

Supporting Young People Through Relationships, Development and Opportunity

Lisa Lawson explored how understanding adolescent brain development can help communities better support young people as they transition into adulthood. Drawing from the themes of her book Thrive, she emphasized the importance of guidance, meaningful relationships and opportunities for young people to discover their identities and develop their potential. Her presentation highlighted alternative caregivers, identity-building experiences, early work exposure and the role of families, employers, policymakers and community organizations as bridges to opportunity.

The Conversation Continues

The research and perspectives shared at THRIVE 2026 reinforced a central message: Relationships matter, connections create opportunity, and stronger communities are built through intentional collaboration.

As we reflect on what we learned, we encourage attendees to share these resources, continue building connections and consider how each of us can help create pathways to opportunity for others.

Someone Saw Something in Me

Relive THRIVE 2026

The conversations, connections, and moments that made THRIVE 2026 memorable are worth revisiting!

Explore our official conference photo gallery, find your favorite moments, and download photos to share with your colleagues and networks.