“Meredith has been a real ambassador for us,” says a Friendship Circle staff member. “She leads by example and has this amazing way of making everyone feel welcome.” And then there’s Kaitlyn, the youngest Burks sister and newest official volunteer. A 6th grader at IMS, Kaitlyn recently completed the MVP (Mitzvah Volunteer Program), and she’s already making waves. Whether she’s helping out at events or just offering a kind word to a new participant, Kaitlyn’s enthusiasm and warmth are unmistakable. She may be new, but her potential is clear. “I started friendship circle through the MVP program in the 6th grade, now i am going into my freshman year of high school and friendship circle has been a very influential and important part of my life.” “Kaitlyn just gets it,” says a volunteer coordinator. “She shows up with a huge smile and is eager to help. She’s going to be a leader just like her sisters.” Each of the Burks sisters brings something unique to Friendship Circle: Ryley’s leadership and one-on-one commitment, Meredith’s ability to grow the community, and Kaitlyn’s spark and energy. What they share, though, is a deep belief in the power of inclusion—and a family culture of showing up for others. The Burks family didn’t set out to build a movement, but that’s what they’ve done. Their collective impact is felt not only in the lives of the participants they support but in the growing number of young people inspired to join the cause. Together, the sisters are helping create a more compassionate and connected world—one friendship at a time. In an age where community can feel fragmented, the Burks sisters remind us of the strength in showing up, the value of empathy, and the incredible impact young people can have when they lead with heart. The power of three has never looked so strong.
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The Power of Three: How the Burks Sisters Are Building Community
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