Mercer Residential Services, Inc., (MRSI) is a private nonprofit organization established in 1977 by a group of parents and professionals as a local alternative to the institutionalization of people with cognitive disabilities.
Below is a brief history of MRSI, from its incorporation to its current position as a provider of residential and supported living services to people with developmental disabilities and mental health illness in Auglaize, Mercer and Van Wert Counties.
1977
Mercer County Residential Home was established as a private non-profit agency, with a mission to promote, plan and provide residential alternatives to protect and nurture the mental, physical and social development of each individual with developmental disabilities.
1978
The agency announced its initial group home development plan.
1982
Construction of the first group home, known as the Mud Pike Group Home, was completed in May. The first residents moved in.
1990
The agency changed its name to Mercer Residential Services, Inc. (MRSI), thus placing emphasis on what the agency provides and minimizing stigma of the people who might use its services.
1990s
MRSI ventured into providing supported living services in Mercer County and then in Van Wert County.
1997
MRSI received a grant through the Tri-County ADAMHS Board from the Ohio Department of Mental Health to build a four-unit apartment complex in Van Wert.
1999
Construction began on a drop-in center in Van Wert for the Tri-County ADAMHS Board. MRSI was designated as the housing agency for Van Wert, Mercer and Paulding Counties. In the same year, MRSI was awarded the contract by the Van Wert County Board of Developmental Disabilities to operate the Thomas Edison Group Home.
2000s
MRSI expanded into Auglaize County and began providing supported living services.
2007
MRSI opened a new administrative office and began offering Adult Day Services in Mercer County.
2012
Construction began on a new eight-bed group home in Mercer County.
2013
The Wayne Street Home opened in August, replacing the Mud Pike Home. MRSI began offering ADS services in Van Wert, and partnered with the Van Wert YMCA to launch the Healthy Fit Program.
Present Day
MRSI provides a comprehensive array of services including group homes, respite care, affordable housing, homemaker/personal care, vocational opportunities, recreation and social activities. The organization has expanded housing with additional units in Van Wert and Celina.