Maritza Castillo

Community Leadership Specialist
Maritza@VOCEL.org

“The amount of joy we get to witness within our VOCEL classes is like no other, smiles and giggles all while our little ones nourish their minds with play is pure bliss.”

Maritza Maritza has been a valued member of VOCEL since 2019 and now serves as our Community Leadership Specialist. With a passion for inclusion, developmental growth, and family advocacy, she brings creativity, empathy, and a deep commitment to her work with caregivers and young children.

Maritza has built strong, trust-filled relationships with families across Chicago’s Southwest side, always striving to create spaces where everyone feels seen, welcomed, and supported. Her goal is to ensure that learning through play is joyful and accessible to all, while celebrating the unique strengths of each individual.

She holds a background in Justice Studies and is currently continuing her education in Health Information Technology. As both a community and personal advocate—especially for her son Julian, who is medically complex—Maritza is deeply passionate about equity and amplifying the voices of families navigating unique challenges.

Outside of work, Maritza enjoys family time, cheering on her sons at baseball games and Special Olympics events, and spending time cooking, crafting, and baking. Above all, her favorite role is being a proud and present mom to her two boys.