Marie Kruger

Founder

Marie is the Founder of Called to Belong, which she established after years
of advocating for her son, Coleman, who has autism. As Coleman
approached adulthood, Marie recognized a gap that countless families
face—not just in employment and skills, but in community, identity, and
being genuinely known. So she built it—a bridge that brings neurodiverse
adults and the wider community together in genuine, mutual belonging.
That vision is Called to Belong.

Tracy Richter

Management Consultant

Tracy is a Management Consultant who brings a keen understanding of
people, relationships, and organizational growth to the Called to Belong
board. As Marie’s sister, she was part of the organization’s origin story
from the very beginning. What draws her most to the mission is Called to
Belong’s social-first mindset and the belief that everyone grows and learns
when given the opportunity to be part of a true community.

Knute Brayford

Special Education Coordinator at North Schuylkill School District

Knute Brayford is the Special Education Coordinator at North Schuylkill
School District, where he has spent his career advocating for students with
diverse needs. As the father of an adult daughter with special needs, his
investment in Called to Belong is as personal as it is professional.

Vince Kulbitsky

Supervisory Auditor, Internal Review Division of PA National Guard

Vince began his career in public accounting before making a purposeful
shift into the nonprofit world, spending nearly 15 years as a director with
two different Big Brothers Big Sisters organizations—work that gave him a
deep heart for community and belonging. He currently serves as Chief of
Internal Review for the Department of Defense, Pennsylvania National
Guard, bringing a unique blend of financial expertise and nonprofit
leadership to the Called to Belong board.

Kristie Thorpe

LPC, Behavioral Health Professional

Kristie brings over 20 years of experience in the behavioral and mental
health field, where she has focused on compassionate care, positive
outcomes, and individualized support. Her commitment to building
meaningful relationships and supporting others makes her a natural fit for
the Called to Belong mission. Kristie is drawn to the organization’s belief
that real community encourages connection, inclusion, and personal
growth—and she is excited to be part of something that brings people
together.

Board of Directors

Our board is made up of passionate community leaders who believe that purpose is not a privilege—it is for every person. Together, they bring diverse experience in business, service, and advocacy—united by a shared belief that belonging happens when everyone moves toward each other.