The Wellness Community Background

The Wellness Community was founded by Dr. Harold Benjamin in Santa Monica, California in 1982. As a result of experience with his wife's breast cancer and through subsequent years of study on the psychological and social impact of cancer, Dr. Benjamin formulated the Patient Active Concept. This revolutionary idea would be recognized years later at Walt Disney World EPCOT Metropolitan Life exhibit as one of the most significant developments in the evolution of modern health care.

"Community" is perhaps the most important aspect of The Wellness Community model of care and is what differentiates this program from any other. All services are provided free of charge in a home-like, community setting. Today, across the country, thousands of people with cancer and their loved ones unite together through our programs. People come at diagnosis, during or at the end of treatment, at recurrence or several years out of treatment. They all come to learn they are not alone in their fight – whether for physical, emotional or spiritual recovery. Together, they regain a sense of control over their lives and ultimately discover that hope is a valuable tool irrespective of the stage of disease.

Our Mission

The mission of The Wellness Community is to help people affected by cancer enhance their health and well-being through participation in a professional program of emotional support, education and hope.

Our Vision

To be a vital and active part of the standard of care for people with cancer by providing the most comprehensive and beneficial support and educational programs in Central New Jersey in an environment that fosters hope.

Our Story: The Realization of a Need

The idea of creating a haven of support for cancer patients and their families began in the hearts and minds of a few people who shared a common vision.

On January 19, 2001, this small group began meeting over breakfast to discuss the possibility of starting a center where people who were diagnosed with cancer could come for support. As the meetings became more frequent the dream developed into reality. A plan of what the center would look like was drawn, a mission statement and goals and objectives were written.

Our Charter

While researching other cancer support centers, the group learned of The Wellness Community (TWC),believing it made good sense to partner with an organization that has strong ties to the medical community and offers a wide variety of professionally run programs, the group decided to seek affiliation with TWC.

The Wellness Community – Central New Jersey received its charter late winter 2002.