About The Campaign
When Kristen Bruck heard that her kids’ school district was going to limit what teachers could post in their classrooms, she and Krissy Laverty, another mom in the district, created yard signs that said “You Belong. You Matter. We are all Southern Lehigh.” They started with 20 signs that were meant to spread a message of inclusivity and kindness throughout the community. But when a few teachers saw the signs and bought their own to put up in their classrooms, they were immediately told to take them down. The teachers and community members in Southern Lehigh refused to hide this message of kindness, and thus, a movement was started. Soon parents in other districts joined in and we keep growing!
Mission Statement
To spread messages of inclusivity & advocate for groups who have been marginalized in our communities.
Who We Are
Kristen Bruck (Executive Director) is a wife and mother of two teenagers. She holds a Master’s Degree in Education and has taught Grades 6-12 and at a local community college. She created the You Belong Campaign signs to make sure all of the students in the district knew that there were community members that support them for who they are - no matter their race, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
Sally Gill (President) is a Theatre Artist and Educator. She holds an MA in Theatrical Design and is a Freelance Theatrical Designer. She is also a Yoga Practitioner and Instructor. A wife and mom of two boys, she has been an active ally to the LBGTQ community for many years. Through her teaching work at a local Community College, she serves a diverse population of students. Sally leads the You Belong Campaign in Grayslake, the first campaign in IL and has inspired much local participation. At a time when many are minoritized and dehumanized, Sally sees so much need for a message of acceptance, kindness and unity that inspires action on behalf of a growing diverse population. She is so grateful to be a part of the You Belong Campaign.
Shannon Burkhart (Vice-President) was born and raised in Arizona. She has been a project manager for over 25 years in the technology field. She served as the board president for Mesa Montessori for 6 years and was the Social Season chair for Keystone Montessori for 4 years. She wanted to become involved in the You Belong Campaign to support inclusion, diversity and equality in her community.
Andrea Lycette (Secretary) is a mother of four living in Coopersburg, PA. Trained as an occupational therapist focusing on pediatrics and mental health, Andrea has always believed that our future lies with the loving care we provide the children in our society. Valuing each individual for their unique characteristics is the foundation for developing one’s self-worth and dignity and ultimately fosters a safe, flourishing community. The You Belong Campaign speaks to this long-held belief by helping to celebrate our differences while not forgetting our similarities.
Stacey Kahan (Treasurer) Is a clinical research management professional with over 15 years’ experience in the Life Sciences industry and a mother of 4 located in Malvern, PA. As the mother of a transgender child, Stacey is an active participant in both her local school board and grass-roots political activities to ensure all LGBTQIA+ students have a safe and accepting educational experience. Stacey joined the board of You Belong after running 2 campaigns in the Great Valley School District to help increase the visibility of positive messaging and acceptance in her school district.
Krissy Laverty (Creative Director) holds a BS in Art Education and has taught preK toddlers through 12th grade. Krissy lends her talents to several nonprofits and other causes close to her heart. When not volunteering, Krissy is raising her 2 young children and agreed to help Kristen with her original sign campaign because she believes that the best communities for our kids include, embrace, and protect diversity. She hopes that her designs will remind anyone hurting that they are loved and challenge their allies to support safe and inclusive communities for all.
The You Belong Campaign is a 501(c)(3) non-profit.
Email: youbelongcampaign@gmail.com