In April 2026, Strength and Resilience Nonprofit Inc. opened its doors with a clear and meaningful goal: to create a space where all children — neurotypical and neurodivergent — can learn to play, communicate, and grow together.

Founded by Rushener Brown and Courtney Bennett, graduates of the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program at Thomas Jefferson University, the organization is the result of four years of planning, persistence, and hands-on experience working with children in behavioral therapy settings.

“We realized that we often teach neurodivergent children how to communicate with neurotypical children,” Brown explained. “But we don’t always teach neurotypical children how to communicate with neurodivergent children. Our goal is to bring all children together so they can coexist, play, and find ways to communicate.”

That mission comes to life through their sensory gym, a space designed to foster inclusion through play. Located in a high-traffic, accessible area of Montgomery County, the founders intentionally chose a location that reflects the diversity of the community they hope to serve.

“We felt like this was the right area,” Brown said. “It’s close to the city, easy to access, and there are so many different families here. We wanted a place where everyone could come together.”

A Flexible, Family-Focused Model

Strength and Resilience offers open play sessions along with structured events like slime labs and mommy-and-me yoga, all designed to encourage interaction and social development in a fun, low-pressure environment. While traditional therapies such as speech or occupational therapy remain essential, the sensory gym serves as a complement to those services.

“A sensory gym enhances what therapists are already doing,” Bennett explained. “It gives kids a chance to learn in a playful, social way. They’re building connections with other kids, often for the first time, in a setting that feels natural.”

From the moment families walk in, the focus is on comfort and exploration. After a quick check-in and tour, children are free to engage with the space at their own pace while parents are welcomed into a supportive, communicative environment.

“We want this to feel like a safe place,” Bennett added. “We are always striving to make this a place where kids can have fun, where parents feel comfortable, and where relationships are built.”

Located at 319 Easton Rd. in Willow Grove, the sensory gym is currently open Tuesday-Friday from 3-7:00 PM and on weekends from 11:00 AM-6:00 PM (closed Mondays). The organization is operated solely by its two founders, with plans to expand staffing and hours as funding allows.

Strength and Resilience offers flexible options to fit different family needs and schedules, including both memberships and single-session visits. Monthly memberships provide unlimited access to open play, allowing children to build routine, confidence, and social connections over time. Family memberships are also available at a discounted rate for multiple children. For those who prefer more flexibility, drop-in sessions offer an easy way to experience the space before committing to a membership.

As a nonprofit, Brown and Bennett emphasize that affordability remains a priority. They are actively working toward expanding payment options, including insurance coverage in the future, to ensure that more families can access the space regardless of financial barriers.

Building Community Through Play

Despite being newly opened, the response from the community has been strong.

“Families are already coming back multiple times a week,” Brown said. “That tells us we’re building something meaningful.”

Looking ahead, Brown and Bennett plan to grow their programming, introduce more community events, and partner with local colleges to serve as a clinical site for students in occupational therapy, speech therapy, and related fields.

“We’re not just a sensory gym; we want to bring people together, start conversations, and help build understanding between all children and families,” Brown concluded.

As community-focused organizations like Strength and Resilience continue to grow, they contribute to both the social and economic fabric of Montgomery County. The Montgomery County Commerce Department supports businesses and nonprofits at every stage, offering resources, guidance, and connections to help them succeed.

To learn more about available programs and support for local organizations, visit the Montgomery County Commerce Department.