The Inspiration of Jimmy Githens

The story of Githens Center traces back to the early 1950s, when a young college student, Helen Maurer Githens, authored a master’s thesis titled “Burlington County Children Excluded from School.” At the time, many children with cerebral palsy in New Jersey had little to no meaningful access to public education—a reality that would shape the course of her life’s work.

As the parent of a child with disabilities, Helen’s commitment was both deeply personal and profoundly purposeful. She began her pioneering efforts by teaching several children in her own home, creating opportunities where none existed.

Helen and her husband, Howard, soon welcomed a young child named Jimmy into their home, ultimately adopting him as a toddler. Jimmy experienced developmental challenges and was later diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Though his life was brief—he passed away at the age of 20—his impact was enduring. Helen recognized in Jimmy a bright, curious mind and a genuine eagerness to engage with the world. His spirit became a catalyst, strengthening her resolve to ensure that children like him would not be overlooked or underserved.

From that deeply personal mission, Helen’s broader vision began to take shape. Together with orthopedic specialist Dr. E. Vernon Davis, she co-founded what was then known as the Burlington County Cerebral Palsy Association—laying the foundation for what would later become Githens Center.