Inspired by fourth-grader Alara Goksu, the Beverly Hills Unified School
district is inviting community members to share the #yesihearyou hashtag
to spread awareness of the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. (photo courtesy of Beverly Hills Unified School District)

The Beverly Hills Unified School District is banding together to raise awareness about the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria after Hawthorne Elementary School fourth-grader Alara Goksu started the “Yes, I hear!” campaign.

At an assembly a few weeks ago, Goksu asked students and families to collect supplies to be sent to Turkey. She also made a class presentation and handed out flyers. Her efforts turned into a broader awareness campaign.

On Feb. 22, all Hawthorne students were invited to write “Yes” on the palms of their hands. School staff shared the photos on social media with the hashtag #yesihearyou.

Staff from across the district joined in on Feb. 28, and others are encouraged to post their own photos and raise awareness for those fighting for their lives halfway around the world.