Silas Callison Rocks Battle Columbus
Meet Silas Callison. If you don’t already know his name, you’re about to. Silas is a talented performer, an absolute music enthusiast, and an all-around rockstar who got his start at The Childhood League Center. And he’s coming all the way from Burlington, Vermont, specifically for Battle Columbus. That’s right- Silas is making the journey just to bring the house down for his hometown!
photo courtesy of Bess Eley
Silas’ journey with The Childhood League Center began before he could even crawl. His parents, Janet and her husband Steve, toured three different centers when Silas was a newborn, searching for the perfect fit. When they walked into The Childhood League Center, it was an easy choice. It felt welcoming. It felt joyful. It felt right. In-home care started in the spring and summer, and by the fall of 2000, Silas was officially a Childhood League student.
From the very start, music was a part of his world. Silas loved music in a way that was impossible to ignore. The Center saw that love and used it to help him thrive. Whether it was Norah Jones playing at home or “Baby Beluga” on repeat in the classroom, music became a tool for encouragement, comfort, and growth. His mom even printed out song lyrics to help him learn to read, proving that music wasn’t just a passion for Silas—it was a gateway to learning.
photo courtesy of Bess Eley
As Silas grew, so did his stage presence. He wasn’t just a music lover; he was a performer. He’s had the honor of singing the National Anthem for the Down Syndrome Association’s Buddy Walk and the Best Buddies Friendship Walk. He’s taken the stage at Byrne’s Pub and is a regular at Woodlands Tavern’s Best Buddies Open Mic Night every August. He’s even shared the spotlight with The Apple Bottom Gang!
After graduating from Grandview Heights High School in 2019, Silas wasn’t ready to stop pushing boundaries. He went on to the ‘Think College’ program at the University of Vermont, graduating in 2023. Now, he’s living in Burlington, Vermont, but there was never a question of where he’d want to be when the opportunity for Battle Columbus rolled around.
Janet, Silas’ mom, reflects on their time with The Childhood League Center with nothing but good thoughts.
“The biggest thing we took away from The Childhood League was confidence. They gave him the confidence to be himself and be bold about it. They gave me the confidence to parent him.”
- Janet, Silas’ mom
When Silas struggled with eating, the therapists at the Center heard about a new type of therapy called Oral Motor Therapy. Instead of waiting around, they went out, got trained, and made sure Silas had the best possible support.
This year, Battle Columbus carries an extra layer of meaning. Silas’ cousin has been helping make this moment for him unforgettable. For Silas, this isn’t just another performance—it’s a homecoming, full-circle moment that he is ready to ROCK. The family connection makes this night even more special as the support and love for Silas come together. Read Bess Eley’s Story Here
Silas is proof that The Childhood League Center creates superstars. And now, he’s making his grand return to Columbus, ready to put on a show like no other at Battle Columbus. You do not want to miss this. Get your tickets, bring your friends, and get ready to cheer on the one and only Silas Callison.