VIROQUA, Wis. — The Vernon Area Rehabilitation Center (VARC), Inc., a leading nonprofit provider of disability and employment services throughout Southern Wisconsin and headquartered in Viroqua, announced today its intent to merge with VPI, a longtime nonprofit with a strong presence in the Fox Valley. Headquartered in Appleton, Wis., VPI provides disability services to individuals across the region.
This merger, slated to occur this November, brings together the mission-driven organizations committed to empowering individuals of all abilities through personalized support, inclusive employment, and lifelong opportunity. By joining forces, VPI and VARC will enhance their services, broaden their reach, and strengthen support for individuals with disabilities across Wisconsin. The merger will deliver several key benefits to individuals, families, employees, and business partners:
Broadened Programming
By combining complementary strengths—ranging from licensed childcare, adult day services, supported employment, early intervention services, trauma-informed mental healthcare, and school-to-work transition programming— we will provide a comprehensive continuum of care to more individuals throughout the state. This integrated approach not only enhances inclusive workforce development by creating meaningful employment and skill-building opportunities that promote personal growth and independence but also allows us to innovate and respond swiftly to changing community needs with coordinated, timely services.
Expanded Reach and Service Capacity
With nearly 120 years of combined experience, the merged organization unites deep expertise and extensive networks across southwestern, central, and northeastern Wisconsin. This expanded reach enables us to deliver coordinated supports across counties including Vernon, La Crosse, Richland, Sauk, Juneau, Columbia, Adams, Racine, Outagamie, Calumet, Winnebago, Waupaca, Fond du Lac, and Brown—better meeting the diverse needs of individuals and families.
Amplified Advocacy and Community Impact
United under one mission, we have a stronger voice to advocate for disability rights, promote inclusion, and support families at every stage of life. Our strengthened partnerships with funders, employers, and local governments position us to drive systemic change and advance opportunities for people with disabilities statewide.
Expanded Business Partnerships and Customer Convenience
With more locations across Wisconsin offering contract packaging services, we will provide packaging customers greater convenience, flexibility, and access to meet their unique business needs. Merging our operations strengthens our ability to support local businesses while sustaining the mission-driven work that empowers the individuals we serve.
“VPI has built a remarkable legacy in the Fox Valley, and we’re honored to move forward together,” said Liz Filter, President & CEO of VARC. “This merger enhances our ability to deliver exceptional services and creates new pathways for collaboration, advocacy, and innovation across the entire state.”
Tim Riebau, President & CEO of VPI, added, “This merger is a natural alignment of two organizations that share a deep commitment to service, innovation, and person-centered values. Together, we are building on our strengths to ensure long-term sustainability, greater opportunities for those we serve, and continued positive impact in our communities.”
The transition has been carefully designed to maintain continuity of care, minimize disruption, and uphold the quality of services both organizations are known for. Existing programs will continue uninterrupted, with the same teams and the same values guiding every decision.
About VARC
Founded in 1975 by a small group of parents and educators in Viroqua, WI, VARC is a nonprofit organization that has since expanded its mission to provide a comprehensive array of services for individuals with varying abilities. These services encompass licensed childcare, employment support, transportation assistance, recovery-informed services, child and youth programs, and customized services.
Currently, VARC serves over 850 individuals with disabilities across Wisconsin, operating from 13 locations. Our reach extends to communities in Vernon, Richland, Sauk, Juneau, Columbia, Adams, La Crosse, Racine, and Walworth County, as well as neighboring counties. At VARC, we are dedicated to empowering individuals with varying abilities by promoting active community participation, fostering independence, and providing diverse, meaningful experiences, all centered around the core value of individual choice.
About VPI
Founded in 1956, VPI, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides a wide range of programs and services to more than 2,000 individuals with disabilities and/or disadvantages annually in the Fox Cities and surrounding areas. Services include early intervention, education and school-to-work transition programs, employment support, mental health services, and inclusive social enrichment opportunities. To help sustain and expand these services, VPI operates a contract packaging and production business that employs an integrated workforce—creating meaningful employment while generating revenue that supports the evolving needs of the people we serve.
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