About Biruk
Biruk Shai was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on April 27, 2007. His name means a blessing and a gift–he was both
and so much more to all those who knew him.
Biruk was adopted into the Silvers family in Highland Park, Illinois, at the age of 7. He was the youngest of six
children. In his early years in Ethiopia, Biruk endured hardships no child should ever have to experience. This gave
him a different perspective on life from an early age. He was an old soul, wise beyond his years. He was mischievous,
curious, hysterically funny, and had a heart of pure gold.
Biruk was known for his absolutely beautiful smile and charismatic charm. He was so appreciative of the simple things
in life. He loved to read, dance, cook, play sports, garden, recycle, sing, spend time in nature and with his family.
Biruk’s life was tragically cut short at the age of 17 on November 5, 2024.
A tribute to B FROM his brother, Joey
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About The Foundation
Biruk taught us so much in his short life–to live in the moment, love big,
hug tight, and always find the beauty in life. To know Biruk was to love
him. Biruk brought immense joy to all of us.
By contributing to the foundation*, we keep Biruk’s spirit alive and support
vital programs and initiatives that reflect his commitment to making this
world a better place. Each donation serves as a tribute to Biruk’s
remarkable life, and the Silvers family will match every dollar raised.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of so many people just as
he did.
As Biruk always would say…let’s go! Let’s do it for B!
*The Biruk Shai Silvers Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Meet Biruk’s People
Katy Silvers
Josh Silvers
Brian Bromberg
Eric Rothner
Ari Ryan
Executive Leadership
Board of Directors
Brian & Tracy Blitz
Stacey Bromberg
Maryl Dayan
Mark & Laura Polen
Carly & Alex Polk
Kimmi Rudolph
Matt Silvers
Jacob Silvers
Jonathan Silvers
Yabi Silvers
Josh & Shira Stein
Tina Wolf
Junior Board
Addison Dickman
Asher Blitz
Jordan Polen
Jordyn Stein
Joey Silvers
First annual Turkey Biruk Bowl - Nov 2024
How You Can Help
There are several ways you can help support our
mission to help others in Biruk’s memory.
It can start with a simple act of kindness and posting
it on social media using the hashtag #BBraveForBiruk,
or a donation, or volunteering with us.
We gladly appreciate suggestions for giving back,
supporting new causes, or helping a child in need.
The Impact We Make
Through fundraising and community events, we will support a variety of causes that Biruk felt strongly about and continue to change lives as he did ours.
- Reading literacy
- Mental health support
- Environmental protection (e.g., recycling, education)
- Music
- Resources for youth–both for fun and necessity
- Plus, many more
Through acts of kindness, fundraising, and community service, the Biruk Shai Silvers Foundation will continue to promote and support Biruk’s greatest joys.
News and Updates
© 2025 · Biruk Shai Silvers Foundation. All Rights Reserved.
The Biruk Shai Silvers Foundation
is a registered 501(c) non-profit