MEET OUR TEAM
Heather Osthoff, Founder
Heather started the BKTN (Be Kinder Than Necessary) Foundation to continue her daughter, Brielle's, legacy. Brielle lived by this quote, and Heather will do her best to continue talking openly about mental health, sexual assault, and suicide awareness. She hopes that by starting this foundation the community can begin to normalize these conversations so individuals can seek help without experiencing the shame and stigma that is so often attached to these issues.
"Being kind to others around you is free and easy to do. You never know how a smile, a "hello", or a "how are you?" can change someone's mindset if they are having a tough day. This cause is very dear to my heart. I just want to help the people of our community any way I can.”
Brock Osthoff, BSW, Co-Founder
Brock co-founded BKTN to honor the legacy of his sister, Brielle. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Clarke University and is currently working towards a Master's degree in Social Work. Brock is dedicated to advocating for mental health and suicide awareness in the Dubuque community, which has been deeply affected by this tragic epidemic. He aims to spread his sister's inspiring message so that others can use it to become a source of positivity for themselves and others in need.
“We all face challenging battles daily, so showing kindness to those we meet is a simple yet powerful gesture. It has the potential not only to brighten someone else's day but also uplift us. The BKTN message helps us remember the significance of being kind to others as well as to ourselves. Kindness and positivity create a profound ripple effect that can start with you.”
Alexandria Naab
Alexandria was born and raised in Dubuque, Iowa. Alexandria is currently employed as a Disability Examiner. Alexandria holds a 911 Dispatcher Certification along with various others. Alexandria practices qualities of crisis de-escalation. Alexandria has a strong desire to advocate for the importance of mental health awareness, as she has found her purpose in helping and caring for others. Alexandria works towards promoting BKTN within the community through community outreach efforts.
"I am beyond excited to be a part of the BKTN foundation. BKTN promotes efforts of building a community that supports mental health awareness. I like to live my life full of love and to the absolute fullest. I hope you do the same. Spreading kindness is free. Smiling at others is free. Giving a high five...that's right, you guessed it, FREE! Spread the love. #BKTN"
Antonia Frost, LMSW
Antonia was born and raised in Dubuque, Iowa. She earned her Master of Social Work degree from Clarke University and is licensed in the State of Iowa (LMSW). Antonia is a Clinical Therapist at Crossroads Counseling Center LLC, practicing therapy services in the community since 2021. Antonia acknowledges and advocates for the importance of mental health in the community by empowering individuals to fight their mental health battles. Antonia brings a profound amount of knowledge to the BKTN foundation in regard to mental health and services surrounding mental health in the community.
"BKTN is a step in the right direction for the community to come together and fight the battle of mental health, which so many of us experience. I am extremely grateful to be a part of an amazing team that values Awareness, Worth, Acceptance, Kindness, and Empathy for those who continue to fight their battles."
Elena Dominguez, MSW
Elena is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness, bringing a wealth of experience and a profound commitment to her role at BKTN. Growing up in Dubuque, Iowa, Elena developed a deep understanding of community needs and the importance of mental health support. She earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at Clarke University, where she now works as Associate Director of Annual Fund and Alumni Engagement. Her passion for mental health awareness drives her to work in education and community engagement.
"I am incredibly excited to be a part of BKTN. It is an honor to work alongside such a dedicated team. Together, we can make a real difference."
Samantha Thomas
Sam has been a lifelong resident of Dubuque, Iowa and has been working in the Financial Industry for 14+ years. Sam has always been passionate about mental health and making a positive impact in people's lives. This passion has led her to BKTN, where she is able to combine her professional skills and her love for helping others. Sam assists the BKTN foundation by managing their financials.
"I am constantly inspired by the acts of kindness and support that the BKTN team has shown towards those struggling with mental health. I believe that together, we can create a more compassionate and understanding society. I am proud to be able to instill these values with my children and many others."