Leadership
With a special connection to our leaders, they showcase an unwavering dedication to the community's well-being. Their genuine compassion paves the way for meaningful engagement, nurturing an atmosphere of care and support.
Empathetic Leadership
At Our Ark, exceptional leadership talent is showcased through the embodiment of kindness and empathy. These leaders serve as models of love, highlighting our shared humanity and the value of compassionate leadership.
Youth Connection through Compassion
The leaders at Our Ark establish a profound connection with youth and young adults by displaying genuine compassion for the community. This connection is founded on their ability to understand and address the needs and concerns of the younger generation.
Dignity, Respect, and Safety for All
Our Ark's dedication lies in ensuring that every individual is treated with the utmost dignity and respect. Through this commitment, we strive to convey the message that everyone holds value and possesses the inherent right to safety and well-being.
Core Leadership: Kindness and Empathy
Central to the leadership philosophy of Our Ark is an unwavering commitment to kindness and empathy. These qualities serve as the cornerstone of our leaders' approach, fostering an environment where understanding and care prevail.
Kindness: Our Universal Drive
At the heart of all our endeavors is kindness. It is the driving force that underpins our work, transcending boundaries and touching every aspect of our mission.
Danny Burkett
Founder / Veteran
Phone:
(360) 764-0532
Email:
Address:
4507 Avery Ln Se pmb C-276
Lacey, WA, 98503
Everybody Has A Story
Professional Experience as a Senior Operation Manager in the Army (15+ years)
I served as a Senior Operation Manager in the Army for over 15 years. My career includes years of leadership experience and documented success in extensive large-scale personnel, training, logistics, and budget operations. Along with this, I remained result and goal-focused to improve work systems and productivity in stressful environments.
Expertise in Training Operations Management and Personnel Development
As a Training Operations Manager in company operations, I determined subsistence requirements and oversaw the training, health, welfare, and professional development of thousands of Army personnel during my career. I have trained and mentored hundreds of civilians as a Drill Sergeant from 2009 to 2011. The traits and attributes from this assignment have built resilience, humbleness, and discipline which I carry over to my life assignments.
Dedication is My Value
Our Ark was founded on the ears and voices of homeless youth. I saw too many young people struggling without safe places to live or supportive guidance. The programs are created to provide a caring, safe space where youth and young adults can receive consistent adult support, learn life skills, and build the confidence and resilience needed to thrive. Through trauma-informed, relationship-based services, Our Ark helps participants strengthen emotional well-being, improve daily functioning, and connect with community resources, all while working toward independence and long-term stability. Whether a young person is experiencing homelessness, living in an unsafe environment, or at risk of losing housing, Our Ark ensures they have the support, guidance, and opportunities needed to succeed.
Meet Our Board
Madison Downey/Marketing is a student-athlete at Pacific Lutheran University studying Business, with a focus in Marketing and Accounting. She serves on PLU’s student government and on the Student Advisory Resource Fund board.
Shaena Garberich- works in public policy and community outreach, with over eight years of experience strengthening local partnerships and expanding access to behavioral health and human services in Mason County. I am actively involved in local leadership through the Mason County Peacemakers, a cross-
Karlah Ramírez-Tanori is the Director of Development at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Washington. Originally from Southern California, of Yaqui heritage, she brings more than 24 years of nonprofit leadership experience and a multicultural, multilingual perspective to strengthening organizations and creating new pathways for children and families to thrive. Known for her strategic vision, strong relationships, and focus on impact, Karlah helps communities come together to create lasting change for young people.