Advocacy Resources

Advocacy Resources

Advocacy Resources

Select a resource below to connect with a professional and learn more about what programs and resources we have available.

Community-Based Services

Community-Based Services

 Services provided by Jewish Community Services for counseling, advocacy and case management. Other services include independent living skills, tutoring, and special equipment procurement.
Employment Support Services

Employment Support Services

 Job readiness skills training, preparation, development and coaching provided by Jewish Community Services
Jewish Advocates for Deaf Education

Jewish Advocates for Deaf Education

 Opportunities to raise awareness in the community about the needs of Jewish people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Education Advocacy Services

Education Advocacy Services

 Free advocacy services with help on IEPs and 504 plans to help navigate the special education system.

We wonder where our son would be without Jewish Community Services and The Associated.

— Shelle and Peter Schnelle
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MDSNAP

The Maryland Special Needs Advocacy Project (MDSNAP) is part of The Louise D. and Morton J. Macks Jewish Connection Network

Frequently Asked Questions

We are here for you. If you have any questions, contact Rachel Turniasky at rturniansky@thejewishnetwork.org.

If you and your physician have concerns about your child’s developmental progress, take action and arrange for a routine developmental screening.
 
While you may feel embarrassed, confused or worried, please remember you are not alone – your physician has probably heard it all. If your child is not meeting his/her developmental milestones, take that first, key step to getting help.

n Individualized Education Plan (IEP), also known as Individualized Education Program, is defined as a written plan that is designed to meet the unique needs of one child. Much like an IEP, a 504 plan can help students with learning and attention issues learn and participate in the general education curriculum. You can learn more about the differences between the two plans here.

It can be extremely helpful to speak with a professional to not only discuss your child’s challenges, but also to strategize and ensure that your own needs are being met.
 
At Jewish Community Services (JCS), there are a multitude of programs to assist children with special needs and their families.

At the top of this page we have a series of resources available. Selecting one of them should take you to a page where you can learn more about our resources and programs and get connected with the right professional. You can also email rturniansky@thejewishnetwork.org if you still aren’t sure where to start.

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