Circle of Friends Ministry, Inc., based in Lake Wales, is a faith-based non-profit serving adults with unique abilities through life skills development, social connection, and Bible-based teaching. Founded in 1999 by Mertice W. Kelly, providing support, fellowship, and mentoring to children with special needs and their families. Our ministry blends lived experience with Christ-centered values. Mertice's leadership has created a structured, weekday program where adults grow in independence, discover purpose, and are reminded of their God-given worth.
Since 1999, we have grown into a community where adults with unique abilities, families, volunteers, and local partners walk together in faith and friendship. Our leadership team and staff, trained in CPR and First Aid, provide a safe, encouraging environment where each person is known by name. We design every class, outing, and workshop with intention, so participants practice real-world skills while experiencing genuine care. Families find not only services, but a circle of support and renewed hope.
FOUNDER
Mertice clung to her locket of dreams enduring tragedy after tragedy for more than two decades. Convinced that her way was best she held tightly to her high and lofty dreams until she surrendered to her Father’s plans. She finally embraced her past and her husband’s blindness but found it extremely hard to accept the doctor’s words. “Your daughter has Cri-du-chat Syndrome. She will be severely intellectually disabled.”
How could she fulfill ...
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Brandy Dykes leads Circle of Friends Ministry, Inc. with compassion, faith, and personal experience. Inspired by her daughter with Down syndrome, she created a welcoming community where adults with unique abilities build confidence, friendships, independence, and purpose through meaningful activities, encouragement, and supportive connections.
INSTRUCTOR
Lauren has been working with Circle of Friends since June 2022. She grew up with a brother diagnosed with autism at the age of four and this is where her commitment to special needs individuals began. She became his protector and his biggest advocate and through him she has found her purpose. Her heart is with her students so they can learn, persevere, and grow. Her greatest joy comes when she can look into a student's eyes and know they ...
CARE CORP INTERN
"Junior" is an intern at Lake Wales Care Center and an aspiring motivational speaker. During his time as an intern, he began opening up his spiritual journey and growing closer to God, which has played an important role in shaping who he is today. He enjoys speaking openly about his life experiences as a person with dwarfism, using honesty, humor, and storytelling to connect with audiences and create understanding. Junior is also ...
Members smile again as they discover independence and trust their abilities.
Families notice new confidence in shopping, friendships, worship, and communication.
Participants, caregivers, volunteers, and churches form a steady circle of support.