Mullen Manor, nestled in Sicklerville, N.J., is a testament to the unwavering commitment, dedication, and transformative power of community. Under the stewardship of the property manager, who has served this extraordinary residence for 17 years, Mullen Manor has emerged as a beacon of exemplary development for residents with special needs.

This remarkable property has undergone a significant transformation over time. The exterior of the building now welcomes visitors with an inviting facade, enhanced by the addition of stone columns and a lighted sign, effectively transitioning it from a simple structure to a symbol of hope and inclusivity. The interior, equally impressive, is renovating each of the 24 apartments as they are turned over from one resident to another. The overhaul includes all new flooring, modern kitchens, and bathroom upgrades. These renovations, guided by the principle of being strictly barrier-free, have given the residents the independence and comfort they deserve.

Mullen Manor’s origins are deeply rooted in compassion. The project was named after the late mayor of Sicklerville, Ann Mullen, who initiated the idea in 1994, partnering with PRD Management Inc. This collaboration led to the development of the property from 1997 to 1999, utilizing land donated by the township of Gloucester. The sponsorship for this endeavor came from the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America, reflecting a commitment to the cause of those with mobility impairments. In 2016, HUD approved a sponsorship transfer to allow New Jersey Affordable Housing Preservation to become the new sponsor, reinforcing the property’s commitment to its mission.

One of the most exceptional aspects of Mullen Manor is the care and appreciation extended not only to residents but also to employees who go above and beyond in their dedication to the building and the community they have helped create within its walls. This culture of recognition and appreciation fosters a nurturing environment that goes well beyond providing physical assistance.

Residents of Mullen Manor take great pride in their home. They actively participate in decorating the common areas and making use of the outdoor spaces. The proximity to Camden County College’s Blackwood campus offers unique opportunities for residents to engage with the wider community.

Partnerships with organizations like Walgreens for vaccinations and the services of a podiatrist reflect a commitment to holistic care. Regular deliveries of food and produce from local farmers and Wawa ensure that residents receive essential resources catering to those who may find it challenging to venture outside. Collaborations with local institutions, including the Camden County Living Center, local churches, and the Girl Scouts, further enrich the lives of Mullen Manors’ residents. The Girl Scouts are active throughout the year at Mullen Manor, where they hold door-to-door Christmas caroling during the winter holidays, give out candy and cookies, and, in the summer, help with various residents’ needs and do seasonal activities.

What sets Mullen Manor apart is its dedication to providing independence to residents with special needs. Notably, a 28-year-old resident was able to experience true independence for the first time when she moved to the community, a transformation that brought newfound confidence that was truly life-changing. Her experience encouraged her, and after years of residing at Mullen Manor, she had the confidence to live more independently on her own in the greater community. Similarly, a differently abled father cared full time for his then f5e-year-old child, who has now graduated from high school, exemplifying the property’s transformative influence on lives.

Mullen Manor has modernized its infrastructure and created an atmosphere that encourages independence. The tenant coordinator, Regina Richards, not only schedules activities like bingo and parties but also helps with paperwork for programs the residents may qualify for and assists in completing them correctly. Various skills that teach independence, or at least contribute to the sense of autonomy, are things like computer assistance with online ordering of groceries, setting up a Grubhub account, making crafts to give as gifts, setting up transportation for doctors’ appointments, or something as simple as wrapping gifts at holidays.

The property’s commitment to barrier-free living and assistance from private home health aides as needed reflects a profound dedication to ensuring residents have access to all available resources for their well-being.

The rest of the Mullen Manor team includes the maintenance superintendent, who addresses work orders thoughtfully and promptly in all units and throughout the property, and the on-site live-in, who has lived on the premises for 16 years. She handles all resident emergencies and maintains the cleanliness of the common areas with care and attention.

An electronic bulletin board informs residents about events, services, and community activities. The property’s social calendar is brimming with engaging activities, from Sunday’s Eagles games to community barbecues that invite families to partake in the joy of the community.

The property’s interiors are a testament to thoughtful design, with decorations for every holiday and a fully adorned common area that fosters a sense of community and belonging. Despite its nonprofit nature, Mullen Manor invests its budget to make every aspect beautiful. The property manager keeps her door open, physically and metaphorically, encouraging residents to express their needs and ensuring that they feel heard and their needs are met.

Mullen Manor holds a special place in the hearts of its residents. It is a place where those with mobility impairments find the support they need to lead independent lives. They can sit by the path through the nearby park to watch games at the brand-new pickleball court and partake in various activities within the park. Mullen Manor, backed by the supportive township, is even working to install better sidewalks to improve accessibility.

Mullen Manor is not merely a property but a symbol of inclusion, empowerment, and transformation. Its dedication to fostering independence, creating a close-knit community, and serving as a lifeline for those with special needs makes it the epitome of development in the field of housing for the mobility impaired. It is a place where residents find a home and the confidence to live their lives to the fullest. Mullen Manor has made an unprecedented contribution by providing the opportunity for independence and creating a vibrant supportive community for people facing similar circumstances, ultimately empowering individuals to embrace life again.