Camden's largest project undertaken in its history is about to transform the way social services has traditionally been delivered ─ through a single office center that houses all of the social, medical and economic programs of Camden County. A dynamic concept design developed by the team of USA Architects + IEI Group, consolidates numerous off-site social services user groups into one common facility. The design is imbued with core values such as Respect, Compassion and Community, and ultimately won over the Camden County Improvement Authority and Board of Chosen Freeholders during final presentations.
The existing system, disjointed and beleaguered with difficulties, creates enormous challenges for the City’s most vulnerable. By aligning these groups into a centralized location, individuals and families in need can more readily access and easily navigate through vital social programs. The proposed 180,000 sf facility, located on Mount Ephraim Avenue, will be the new home of the Board of Social Services, Affiliated State Agencies, and several county agencies yet to be determined.
The design not only respects the County’s need for increased efficiencies and long-term economic value, moreover, it is intended to lead people on a path toward self sufficiency, connecting them with other members of the community in a daylight-filled, welcoming environment, with large community areas, classrooms, conference rooms, along with open outdoor green spaces. A one-stop services center is a highly efficient and effective way to bolster existing social, medical and economic programs, saving recipients both time and money, as well as contributing to the overall health of the region.
