History & Vision

Founded in Minnesota, REM opened its first community-based living arrangement in 1967.  Since then, REM has been a pioneer in the field of human services.

We deliver quality, community-based alternatives to more restrictive settings for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  Over the years, the organization has grown into a coordinated network of services operating throughout the country.  In 1987, REM founded REM Wisconsin and the organization quickly became known throughout the state.  The key to REM Wisconsin’s success is our vast network of multi-disciplinary, talented staff.

With a variety of staff expertise, we have been able to deliver proven programming and services in various regions of the state–from rural areas to large cities like Madison and Milwaukee.  Today, we partner with more than 40 county agencies and many Care Management Organizations to provide services that support more than 600 individuals statewide.  Our services range from hourly supports to comprehensive 24-hour specialized care or residential services for people with challenging behavioral and medical needs.

The MENTOR Network

The MENTOR Network’s roots date back to 1980 when the organization, then known as MENTOR, received its first contract to provide therapeutic foster care to children and adolescents.  In the years that followed it evolved from a single, residential program provider  to a diversified network offering an array of quality, innovative services to adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury or other catastrophic injuries and illnesses; and to youth with emotional, behavioral and medically complex challenges as well as their families.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, MENTOR continued to grow and diversify services, locations and populations of people served. In 1997, MENTOR began building an integrated network of community-based residential and nonresidential providers who shared the same values and mission.  The name officially became The MENTOR Network in 1999, reflecting the far-reaching partnerships and diverse program models that collectively offer care and support solutions across the United States.

Together We Are Better

In 2003, the entire REM organization, including REM Wisconsin, partnered with The MENTOR Network.  With nearly 60 years of combined service, REM and The MENTOR Network joined together to offer even greater options for people with developmental disabilities.

As REM Wisconsin and The MENTOR Network continue to grow, our commitment to the people we serve remains our first priority.  Ours is a network of shared values and resources – a nationwide team of professionals determined to help every individual thrive in a community setting through innovative, flexible programs capable of being adapted to specific needs.

Looking ahead, we envision playing an active role in shaping new generations of human services delivery.  Our experience as an innovative provider offers the opportunity to test new models of care.  Our cutting-edge systems can help document success and explore ways to achieve greater effectiveness and efficiency.  Our rich history lends a unique perspective to the policy debates taking shape in state capitals and in Washington, DC.

Leading by example: That’s REM Wisconsin and The MENTOR Network