A Program Based on Values

Since its inception, the Phoenix Center has operated under the following core values:

• Each child is someone´s son or daughter, sister or brother, niece or nephew, and as such, will be treated with respect.
• All of our students have abilities and disabilities and we will focus on their abilities rather than their disabilities.
• We will act with honesty and integrity in all situations.
• We live the principle of the FISH philosophy: choose your attitude; be present, play; and make their day.

Program Founders and Governance

The Phoenix Center was founded in 1991 by Dr. Douglas Berrian, a special educator with a behavior management background, and Dr. Geraldine Gibbia, a speech/language pathologist. Dr. Gibbia continues to serve as the Executive Director of the Center and Dr. Berrian serves as its Education Director.

The organization is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors.

The Phoenix Center is a (501)(c)(3) New Jersey nonprofit corporation that prohibits discrimination in its admission and employment policies because of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, national origin or handicap.

Partnering with the Phoenix Center

Phoenix Center´s fundraising arm, Friends of the Phoenix Foundation, provides opportunities for individuals and corporations to partner with us to supplement services to students and families. The Foundation also generates additional income for the Phoenix Center through its Annual Fund. Click here to learn more.

News and Events

Wide ranging events and programs are available for students, parents, benefactors and others. Click here to learn more about Phoenix News and events.