The Neighborhood Center of Camden

SERVICES: Master Planning, Community Engagement, Architectural Design

CLIENT: The Neighborhood Center

LOCATION: Camden, NJ

STATUS: Complete

YEAR: 2023-2024

The Neighborhood Center of Camden, NJ has been serving its impoverished community for over 121 years, offering essential social services in an area plagued by environmental and socioeconomic challenges. In response to the need for revitalization, Janice spearheaded the development of a master plan through collaborative strategy sessions with staff and community members. A design grant from the Community Design Collaborative led to a design charrette that boosted community engagement and visibility. The finalized plan, presented to city leaders and Rutgers University, sparked a strategic renovation initiative that raised $3 million for improvements.

Since 2012, the Center has renovated its gym, sports fields, and community garden. Supported by local businesses and volunteers, it continues to provide daily meals, early childhood education, after-school programs, and a wide range of athletic and arts activities for 200–300 children and teens daily. The Center plays a vital role in breaking the cycle of poverty by preparing children for school, helping teens attend college, and nurturing talents in the arts.