The purpose and mission of the Avalon Manor Improvement Association is to promote civic betterment and social welfare in the Avalon Manor neighborhood by preserving and enhancing the quality of life through education, community beautification, environmental stewardship, and charitable programs that serve the general public.
Avalon Manor, NJ is a community situated on an island just a few short minutes to the beaches of Avalon. There are approximately 150 homes, some seasonal, some year-round. Avalon Manor residents are a wonderful mix of long-time residents and new homeowners, but it's the sense of community that brings us all together.
Many years ago, Avalon Manor was home to just a few people who had a dream of it becoming a place where friends, families and neighbors could get together and enjoy the tranquility of the island. They envisioned a community that would provide the simple pleasures of running water and paved streets and were determined to make this happen. In May of 1961, the Meadowview Improvement Association was born. It was only a few years later, in July of 1963, that the name was changed to the Avalon Manor Improvement Association or better known as the AMIA.
The Manor House was purchased and donated in 1965 by Goo and Dot Knorr. Bill Sterbach, another resident of the island, paid to have it moved to the lot where it currently stands at 581 Old Avalon Blvd.
With the growth of the AMIA, it was decided in 1982, that members would band together and expand the front of the building. Many of the volunteers put their own blood, sweat and tears into constructing what is known as our beloved “Manor House”. The back of the building was later added, in 1984, as the Association continued to grow.
Throughout the years, volunteers of the AMIA worked to bring water to the island, had the streets paved, tapped into the county sewer system, and were responsible for the installation of the blinking light on Avalon Blvd. Our volunteers continue to work and make progress as our island is in a constant state of change.
At one time, Avalon Manor was just a few streets long. Old Avalon Blvd. was the main road that led to the bridge that once took visitors into the town of Avalon. That bridge is now a beautiful fishing pier at the end of our island where residents fish, watch the sun rise and set and marvel at the boats as they pass through. Our little island is also home to the Lou Hart Marina, owned and operated by volunteers of the AMIA, where residents can dock their boats for the season. The Association Building, or better known as the Manor House, is where we hold our monthly meetings, socials and numerous events.
In order to pay for the upkeep and taxes of the Manor House and Lou Hart Marina, volunteers have held countless fundraisers throughout the years and donated so much of their time. We have had many, many, dinners, block parties, luminary events, socials, bus trips and lets not forget our very special pancake breakfasts.
The AMIA has also supported our surrounding communities throughout the years by donating to charitable organizations, such as, our Christmas Angels: Caring for Kids and NJ Division of Child Protection and Permanency, the Holy Redeemer Food Pantry, Habitat for Humanity, Veterans, Diller Home for the Blind, Middle Twp. Fire and Police Departments and the Cape May County Park and Zoo, just to name a few. We have also offered scholarships and taken care of our own residents who may be in need.
The AMIA is still facilitating ways to ensure the health, safety and environment of our island and its neighbors. Volunteers continue to make generous contributions through time, effort and donations. When neighbors band together, anything can be accomplished. The Avalon Manor Improvement Association is proof, and the generations who continue to settle here are proud to call this community home. We hope you will consider becoming one of our cherished volunteers and look forward to meeting you!
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