Demand Distinction

A Foundation
of Innovation

Our community was created by a unique not-for-profit organization called Mather, which is committed to developing and implementing Ways to Age Well.SM Founded in 1941 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 Life Plan Communities in the nation. Mather is headquartered in Evanston, Illinois.

“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.

Mather Brings Possibilities to Life

Mather helps make everyday experiences extraordinary ones, serving approximately 211,250 individuals through our three areas of service: senior living residences, community-based initiatives, and research conducted by Mather Institute.

Our Mission

We create Ways to Age WellSM

Our Vision

To change the way society views aging

Financially Stable for a More Secure Future

211,257People Served in 2024

(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

$762Min Investments

in our endowment and trusts

– Numbers as of December 31, 2024 –

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 Walgreens, Tribune Publishing, Hyatt, and KPMG. 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 CEO and president Mary Leary brings 30+ years of leadership experience in senior living, health care, and long-term care to guide Mather’s strategic direction. She 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. Mary is passionate about advancing the senior living industry, and was inducted into the Continuing Care/Life Plan Community Hall of Fame in 2023 for her extraordinary achievements and contributions to the development of Life Plan Communities. 

Named a Top 5 Wellness Executive in senior living in North America 3 consecutive years
ICAA NuStep Top 5 Pinnacle Award
(2022, 2023, 2024)

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, 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 signature programs, a culture of wellness, and more to support residents in living fulfilling, satisfying lives. 

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 Programs

Mather creates endless opportunities for those 55 and better to Age Well in their homes or neighborhoods through in-person and virtual wellness programs. A wide range of free hands-on art projects, guided fitness classes, and more help spark creativity and curiosity, prompt meaningful connections and conversations, and, most importantly, foster a powerful sense of community.

 

Distinction is in the Details