Meet Jill Collier Silbert, Community Connector


I became a connector because I saw the need for programming and resources for families that have children with any special needs. Yes, there are always accommodations for everyone at events but I thought it would be nice to increase the amount of events that cater directly to the special needs and neurotypical population. I am the school nurse at a school for neurotypical children and I have seen first hand the difference that it makes when an environment can shift for the child instead of the child shifting to try to fit into the environment. It is a joy to be able to host events where there is no judgment and there are not rigid expectations for behavior. I am originally from the DC area and came to Baltimore for nursing school. I ended up meeting my husband and I am now officially a part of the community in Baltimore.

I have been using “We Rock the Spectrum” for events because it is a sensory gym that accommodates children of all abilities. They have a ton of sensory equipment for all needs. At the last program that I hosted there numerous families came up to me to say how grateful they were that there was an event where they felt as if their kids fit in and were not being judged. It felt great to be able to provide that resource and community for people. I also have attended a few events where I have brought sensory toys and tools for attendees. I remember at one event I brought kinetic sand and it was actually a hit with ALL of the kids- whether neurodiverse or not.

Baltimore is such a tight knit community that it was hard for me to come in as an outsider. I also grew up with interfaith parents so I have never truly lived in a predominantly Jewish community. Through my work as a Connector and through my synagogue I have found the community that I have always been looking for. Everyone has welcomed me and my family with open arms. It is so nice to have friends who have the same values, customs and culture as myself. For anyone that is looking for their “tribe” I couldn’t recommend getting involved with the Jewish community in Baltimore. You will find your people and there are resources for everything. Did you know that there is an advocate at the Center for Jewish Connections that will help you with your child’s IEP? Did you also know that there are grants available to fund any special needs for your child? There is so much available as a Jewish person in Baltimore! Please reach out to me if you want to connect!


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The Associated is a home for everyone in the Baltimore Jewish community. We offer several email lists to help people find a community, engage with their peers and support Jewish journeys around the world.

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