The Heart of Belonging
Carla Christopher’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of community. Raised by a single mother navigating mental health challenges and housing instability, Carla grew up feeling “less than”—less capable, less wanted, less seen. But when she arrived in York some 20 years ago, she found something different: a community that recognized her gifts, offered her a roadmap, and walked alongside her with compassion and purpose. From open mic nights to city commissions, from Poet Laureate to statewide advocacy, Carla’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and the kind of belonging that turns struggle into strength.
In her presentation to the audience at Bell’s 2025 Annual Celebration, Carla shared her experience to remind us that when people are met where they are and invited to grow, they don’t just survive—they shine.
Carla’s stories, including many that spotlighted interactions with Bell, offered a framework to help identify ways that belonging can move from being a buzzword to a lived reality. She illustrated how belonging is built through intentional relationships, clear pathways, and spaces that honor each person’s unique gifts.
Four Pillars of Belonging
1. Advocacy from Leadership
Belonging begins when someone in a position of power uses their voice to uplift others.
“Do you have someone in leadership who you know has your back?”
It’s knowing someone will speak up for you, intercede when challenges arise, and ensure your voice is heard.
2. A Clear Roadmap
Success isn’t just a destination—it’s a journey that requires guidance.
“There was nothing more stressful than being told, ‘Just succeed.’ Okay, but what does success look like?”
Belonging means having access to tools, mentorship, and pathways that help individuals navigate systems, build skills, and move forward with confidence.
3. Meaningful Engagement
True belonging happens when people are invited to contribute, learn, and grow.
“Do people seem to care about how you are doing on a personal level?”
It’s about recognizing effort, valuing ideas, and offering opportunities for education and creative expression. It’s about being part of something where your presence matters.
4. Intentional Inclusion
Belonging requires actively dismantling unconscious bias.
“We still, no matter what our differences are, need to have the message that we are respected for who we are.”
It means honoring diverse identities, abilities, and experiences—not just as recipients of services, but as leaders, teachers, and changemakers.
Belonging in Action
Carla’s story reminds us that belonging is not passive—it’s active, intentional, and deeply relational. It’s found in the moments when someone says, “Can I help?” not to fix or rescue, but to walk alongside.
“Bell is creating not just healthy, independent livers and thrivers. It’s creating advocates who are changing the face of York City and York County.”
From creative collaborations to community organizing, from teaching to healing, Bell fosters a culture where people are empowered to share their gifts and stories—and to shine.
“With each lit candle of kindness, we remind each other that there is a place for you here.”
If you’re looking for a place to belong – as a cause champion, an employee team member, an engaged volunteer, a financial supporter, a person seeking services to help you move forward – look no further than Bell Socialization Services.
#youhave a place here
Carla Christopher is, among other things, an ELCA Pastor, Trainer, Writer, & Consultant. She has been Poet Laureate for York City (twice).
She shared this poem with us at Bell’s annual event:
Look at the shine in these faces,
look at these people
gathered in places that during the phases of recent yearshave only been able to gatherin places of protest and tearsresistance and action,a passion to be admired yet even and still,the soul needs rest and restoration.It needs space to rememberthe best in us is not lostand the cost of empowerment and freedom will not be our community.For this reason, we gather in celebration to honor our unity.We have bought help and hope in storesto keep unhoused neighbors warm in a night that feels cold.The brightness of a single act of kindness lights a candle, anchors a handle thedowntrodden and weary can clearly see and hold on to and we,we carry it.If only you knew, you will never know most of the good you dobecause your prayers are often answered in places far beyond your view.Keep praying.Your volunteer hours and donations, social media posts, warm sock and nonperishable collectionsare absolutely the fruit of the reason for every healing season.Keep giving.Your books read and classes taught, your personal connections, your fierce and defiantly claimed moments of joy are shining stars in the eye of every child receiving an unexpected night of rest, comforting hand sewn blanket or toy.Keep sharing.And as you do, say these words out loud or in the quiet of your heart,let there be light,because with each lit candle of kindness,our world becomes brighterand as new day dawns, a Bell clearly rings,signaling and singing,you belong.We belong here.