The Mather

The Mather is an assisted living community in Evanston, IL. Located on Davis Street, the community is part of a nonprofit organization founded in 1941 by Alonzo Mather, a humanitarian and entrepreneur whose bequest created one of the earliest Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Evanston, Illinois. The Mather serves older adults through senior living residences, neighborhood-based programs, and applied research conducted by Mather Institute.

The organization's stated mission is to create Ways to Age Well, with a vision of changing the way society views aging and values described as Inclusive, Resilient, Bold, and Impactful. Leadership is headed by President and Chief Executive Officer Mary Leary, who brings more than 30 years of experience in senior living, hospitality services, and health care, including prior service as Chief Operating Officer of Classic Residence by Hyatt, where she oversaw the start-up and day-to-day operations of 18 senior living communities serving more than 6,000 residents. The Mather's internal "Possibilities Team" emphasizes creativity and curiosity in service of its residents and programs. The organization has accumulated over 370 awards across categories including design and architecture, technology and innovation, quality of care, and workplaces. Its ContinuWell framework draws on Mather Institute's Person-Centric Wellness Model, addressing autonomy, achievement, and affiliation as drivers of whole-person wellbeing that extends beyond physical health to emotional, intellectual, environmental, social, and spiritual dimensions.

The community sits on Davis Street in central Evanston, about a tenth of a mile from Congregational Park and roughly a quarter mile from Chicago Avenue. Frances Willard House, a notable historic building, lies about a quarter mile away, and the Evanston Public Library is within a third of a mile.

Founded in 1941 as The Mather Foundation by Alonzo Mather, the community continues his legacy of innovation in senior living in Evanston.