Spotlight: Amanda Zinkerman

We’re honored to shine a spotlight on the incredible Amanda Zinkerman — a driving force behind the scenes at Urban Dor and one of the most selfless members of the Greater Hartford Jewish community!

Urban Dor: Tell us about what you like about the Greater Hartford Jewish community and when did you first hear about Urban Dor?

Amanda: I first heard about Urban Dor through a non-Jewish friend of mine who suggested I attend an event. I went in knowing no one and not knowing what to expect. There I was introduced to someone who worked for BBYO who told me they were looking for advisors. Blindly, I had little idea what it entailed, but liked the sound of it. Since then, both Urban Dor and BBYO have opened SO many new doors for me, and has helped me connect to my Judaism seeing so many young people passionate about it. I love the sense of community and belonging we have in West Hartford and am proud of how much we’ve grown in only a few years. I also love that there’s always something going on! 

Urban Dor: What do you do professionally?

Amanda: I’m a court clerk in Downtown Hartford. I work with children’s matters, specifically guardianship and immigration. I’m really passionate about the community I serve and knowing I play a role in making a difference in children’s lives. My job entails helping families with court filings, preparing files for hearings, working with DCF, and facilitating grants for grandparents who are guardians. 

Urban Dor: You are our most prized volunteer - always extending your personal time to help behind the scenes to make our events a success - and we know you volunteer elsewhere too - tell us what drives your passion to be so giving to others and what other volunteering do you do?

Amanda: Personally, growing up, I didn’t have a lot of involvement in the Jewish world. I didn’t go to Jewish summer camps, youth groups, etc. As I got older I realized something was missing-a sense of community, belonging, and connection. Volunteering has given me these things, while feeling the reward of giving back to the community. Currently I volunteer with Urban Dor, BBYO, and First Fridays, and I love seeing how youthful and vibrant Judaism can be. Seeing my BBYO teens passion has really fueled my own. 

Urban Dor: We heard you love the 1970's - what attracts you to that cultural time and how do you incorporate it in the present day?

Amanda: I’ve always been an old soul; both my parents are baby boomers so I grew up really admiring the music, TV shows, and fashion of the time. I’ve also really admired the era for environmental activism and women’s rights. In high school you could find me searching flea markets for antiques, record shopping, or recreating vintage fashion. Some of my favorite fashion icons are Cher, Stevie Nicks, and Farrah Fawcett. I love the mix of funky and colorful looks to classy, timeless pieces. To this day, I try to incorporate flared pants, curtain bangs (think Farrah Fawcett) and boho influences into my style. 

Urban Dor: When not volunteering and doing your 9-5, how do you like to unwind in Greater Hartford?

Amanda: I really love going to farmer’s markets, workout classes (Zumba specifically), line or salsa dancing, painting and doing anything artsy, trying new happy hours, and hanging out with friends.  

Urban Dor: How can people connect with you? 

Amanda: At the next Urban Dor event, or by my email amandazinkerman@gmail.com.

Urban Dor's next event is Sunday, June 22nd 2025, for it's annual Summer Schmooze in Bloomfield, CT. Ticket details here.

Urban Dor is a 100% volunteer-led nonprofit organization for Greater Hartford young adult Jews and founded by Simon Lichter - connect with Simon on LinkedIn.

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