Demand Distinction

Mather Brings Possibilities to Life

Mather helps make everyday experiences extraordinary ones, serving approximately 168,700 older adults through our three areas of service: senior living residences, community-based initiatives, and research conducted by our Institute.

Our Mission

We create Ways to Age WellSM

Our Vision

To change the way society views aging

A Foundation of Innovation

Mather is a unique not-for-profit organization headquartered in Evanston, Illinois, that is committed to developing and implementing Ways to Age Well.SM Founded over 80 years ago by Alonzo Mather, a self-described entrepreneur and well-regarded humanitarian, Mather has a long history of serving older adults. Alonzo funded one of the first Continuing Care Retirement Communities (now called Life Plan Communities) in the nation.

“In my life, I have never stood still.
We Mathers never do. I have kept on with new ideas, projects, and visions.”

Humanitarian, Inventor, and Entrepreneur (1848-1941)

Alonzo Mather exemplified the idea that if you think big, plan ahead, and make the right move at the right time, the most far-reaching dreams become attainable.

Financially Stable for a More Secure Future

168,707People Served in 2023

(directly and indirectly)

$19MContributed by Mather toward Enhancing the Lives...

of older adults through a combination of initiatives in senior living, community-based programs, and Mather Institute

$663Min Investments

in our endowment and trusts

– Numbers as of December 31, 2023 –

Leading by Example

Mather maintains a constant focus on our mission and our strategic plan for the future, with an ongoing emphasis on impact, significance, and sustainability. Our Board of Directors includes current and former executives from an array of companies and industries, including JLL, Hyatt, Tribune Publishing, Sara Lee Corporation, and United Airlines. Our executive team, known as the Possibilities Team, comprises an energetic and innovative group of professionals from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences—all dedicated to advancing our mission of creating Ways to Age Well.SM

Mary LearyPresident & CEO

Change Agent in Action

Our president and CEO Mary Leary brings 30+ years of leadership experience in senior living, health care, and long-term care to guide Mather strategic direction. Featured as one of the top three women in senior living by Senior Housing News, Mary has helped transform Mather from a little-known not-for-profit to a highly regarded national leader with a reputation for innovations, successful business models, and more than 250 awards and honors.

Named a Top 5 Wellness CEO in senior living in North America
ICAA NuStep Top 5 Pinnacle Award
(2022, 2023)

Impacting So Many, In So Many Ways

Nationally Recognized Institute

Mather Institute was created in 1999 to expand the impact of Mather by utilizing applied research to improve programs for senior living and aging service providers. The Institute is an award-winning resource for research and information about wellness, aging, trends in senior living, and successful aging services innovations.

The Institute's Current Areas of Focus:
  • Wellness
  • Engagement
  • Innovation
  • Resilience
Learn More

Institute Partnerships

The Institute partners with numerous community organizations, health care organizations, and academic institutions, including Northwestern University and the University of California at Berkeley. A key goal of these endeavors is to equip senior living professionals with best practices and innovative techniques to better serve older adults.

“We recognize the Institute for its outstanding contributions in translating research into practice and furthering provider education across all 50 states.”

Award-Winning Senior Living Residences

Beyond beautifully designed and appointed homes, inspiring community areas, and high-quality amenities, Mather residences provide a long list of lifestyle benefits, including unique experiences, engaging programs, and opportunities that support residents in living fulfilling, satisfying lives. The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, is our newest community.

The Mather

Life Plan CommunityTysons, VA

Splendido

Life Plan CommunityTucson, AZ

The Mather

Life Plan CommunityEvanston, IL

Mather Place

Rental CommunityWilmette, IL

Life-Enhancing
Community-Based Initiatives

Mather creates endless opportunities for older adults, offering a wide range of lectures, hands-on art projects, guided fitness classes, sing-alongs, and more that can be accessed from home (or anywhere).

 

Distinction is in the Details