Think & Thrive Is…

A Space for Curiosity, Creativity, Challenge and Connection

An innovative center based in Santa Barbara, created for the deep feelers, constant question-askers, and creative thinkers who light up when they’re inspired.

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• Be A Founding Donor • Pledge Just $25 To Start • Be Part of Something Special

Who We Are

At Think & Thrive Project we are committed to a whole-child approach—recognizing strengths, interests, personality and spirit in each individual. At the core of every thriving community are individuals who think deeply, imagine boldly, and never stop asking “why.” Think and Thrive is a vibrant, welcoming space for children who are curious, creative, and driven to explore big ideas. It is a movement designed to meet the needs of young minds who crave challenge, connection, and meaning — and the families and professionals who walk alongside them. Let’s bridge the gap between what school and home can offer!

Our Purpose:

Foster Passion-Based Learning:

Encourage learning that is driven by each child's curiosity, creativity, and personal interests and strengths.

Offer afternoon hands-on experiential classes that allow kids to explore their passions and interests and stimulate their innate abilities.

Offer Real-World Guidance & Skill Building:

Deliver expert insight and guidance for children and the adults (parents, caregivers, educators) who guide them.

Connect learning to real-life experiences to build confidence and practical skills.

Offer tangible tools and insights for parenting in everyday life.

Build a Supportive Community:

Create a welcoming space where children and families can explore, grow, and feel a sense of belonging, together.

Our Founding Team

  • Kari Van Bebber

    Executive Director

  • Edie Lanphar

    Executive Director of Programs

  • Sage Kimball

    Director of Media and Communications & Performing and Visual Arts

Message from the Founders

Hi! We are the founders of Think and Thrive Project—a space dedicated to helping bright, curious kids explore through creativity, connection, and challenge. 

At Think and Thrive, we believe learning should be inspiring, meaningful, and personalized. Our center was born out of years of experience working with gifted children and their families, and our approach is deeply rooted in compassion, openness, and intellectual curiosity. We believe that giftedness is not just about high achievement—it’s a way of experiencing the world that can involve deep curiosity, emotional intensity, and asynchronous development. We also believe in expanding this model to create a space where all kids who enjoy learning and who are eager to explore and hungry for connection can thrive.

At Think and Thrive Project, we offer a welcoming, inclusive community that brings best practices in education and blends them with engaging, hands-on experiences for any child who seeks creativity, challenge, and connection.

Whether a child is advanced, intensely curious, is in need of more engaging learning opportunities, or wants more opportunity to use their originality and explore through creative experiences, we’re here to meet them where they are. Our programs are designed to help kids think critically, wonder widely, and feel deeply supported as they grow into their fullest selves.

Think and Thrive Project is a place where kids can stretch their minds, express their creativity, and build confidence through meaningful learning and community.

We’re excited to grow this space with families like yours, and we can’t wait to build a community where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to thrive.

Edie, Kari & Sage

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