The Emergence of Githens Center

For many years, the organization operated under its original legal name, the Burlington County Cerebral Palsy Association. Over time, however, the name “Githens Center” was introduced as its public-facing identity—both to honor Helen’s legacy and to reflect an expanding scope of services that reached beyond cerebral palsy alone.

The organization’s earliest days were marked by modest but meaningful progress. In May 1951, its first Diagnostic Clinic screened just six individuals. By September of that same year, physical therapy services had begun, offered for a half-day each week. These small beginnings would soon give way to steady and purposeful growth.

Through the unwavering dedication of its founders, Githens Center evolved into an organization defined by compassion, innovation, and excellence. Generations of staff, volunteers, and supporters have carried that mission forward, each contributing to its continued growth and impact.

In later years, Gail Slack reflected on her mother’s journey with quiet wisdom: “There is always a reason why things happen in our lives, even if we ourselves don’t immediately know why.”