For 80 years, Matheny has held on to one idea: that people with the most medically complex developmental disabilities deserve to live with dignity, opportunity and joy.
The organization was founded in 1946 after Walter and Marguerite Matheny’s son, Chuck, was born with cerebral palsy. It has grown into a nationally recognized special hospital and nonprofit private school based in Peapack.
Today, it provides medical care, education, therapeutic services, recreational programs, independent living opportunities and a fine arts program to patients with conditions including cerebral palsy, spina bifida, Lesch-Nyhan disease and a range of rare disorders such as Rett syndrome, Angelman syndrome and Cornelia de Lange syndrome.
Matheny is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Somerset County, made up of a special long-term care hospital, seven community group homes, two adult day centers, a nonprofit private special school for children ages 3 to 21, a fine arts program, and outpatient dental, seating and medical clinics serving the wider community.
That work breaks down into five core program areas:
- Hospital: Specializes in the treatment of children and adults with medically complex developmental disabilities and associated clinical conditions.
- School: Provides an integrated educational and therapeutic experience for students with a diverse range of abilities and disabilities.
- Adult Day Program: Helps participants attain their highest level of independent functioning.
- Community: Community Residences offer independent living opportunities for adults in group home settings.
- Arts Access: Offers opportunities in the fine, performing and literary arts, using techniques designed for each discipline so clients can create original work.
Matheny will close out its 80th anniversary in March 2027 with a two-day conference for professionals, families, caregivers and advocates at its Peapack campus.
The anniversary recently earned recognition beyond Matheny’s own campus.
Congressman Tom Kean Jr. entered a tribute into the Congressional Record honoring the organization’s 80 years of service, calling it a testament to “the compassion, expertise, and daily dedication of the entire Matheny community.”
Dr. Vincent Barba, Matheny’s vice president and chief medical officer, has watched that mission carry the organization through eight decades of change.
“We are truly grateful that he took the time to celebrate our 80th anniversary in such a meaningful way,” he said. “This is a well-deserved recognition of the hard work and dedication of all of our employees.”
For Nancy Hamstra, FACHE, Matheny’s president and CEO, the milestone belongs to more than just the organization’s leadership.
“On behalf of everyone at Matheny, we are deeply honored,” she said. “This recognition belongs to every resident, student, patient, staff member, family, and volunteer who has been part of that mission.”
Eight decades in, the mission hasn’t changed. Neither has the goal for the next 80.
For information about Matheny, go to matheny.org.
