A Century of Compassion: The Brothers of Mercy’s Impact on Health and Community

From Riding Bikes to Pioneering Therapy, This Non-Profit Continues to Serve Western New York with Care and Innovation

For nearly a century, the Brothers of Mercy Wellness Campus has been a beacon of compassionate care in Western New York. Founded in 1924 by a group of dedicated Brothers who rode bicycles to care for the sick, the organization began with a simple yet profound mission: to provide care and support to those in need, regardless of their ability to pay. Today, the Brothers of Mercy has grown into a 126-acre wellness campus in Clarence, offering a continuum of care that includes skilled nursing, assisted living, independent living, and outpatient therapy services.
What sets the Brothers of Mercy apart is their commitment to the mission “The Charity of Christ Urges Us On.” This philosophy has guided the organization’s evolution from caring for male stroke patients in the 1950s to offering comprehensive outpatient therapy services, which opened in 2018. According to Lauren Grawe, PT, DPT, and Director of Outpatient Therapy Services, the clinic stands out because of its personalized, one-on-one care.
Our ability to treat patients individually allows us to prioritize outcomes and maximize patient satisfaction,” says Grawe. “We travel the path with our patients, making the process fun and engaging, while focusing on their unique goals.”
The clinic’s offerings include physical, occupational, and speech therapy—an uncommon combination in outpatient facilities. This integrative approach is especially beneficial for patients recovering from strokes, surgeries, or traumatic injuries. With all three therapies available in one place, the clinic fosters collaboration among specialists, resulting in a seamless and effective rehabilitation process.
Beyond therapy, the Brothers of Mercy’s commitment to community extends through various initiatives. From food drives for local families to holiday charity programs and hospice bouquet sales, the organization continuously finds ways to give back. “We strive to support the Clarence area and beyond, reflecting our belief in serving the community as a whole,” Grawe explains.
Patients and community members alike recognize the value of the care provided at Brothers of Mercy. One patient shared, “My experience was fantastic. The staff is excellent and very professional. I appreciated both the personal attention and the great results. It was obvious they care about the quality of services they offer as well as the individuals they treat.”
The Brothers of Mercy Wellness Campus is more than a healthcare provider—it’s a cornerstone of the community. Whether through volunteer opportunities, donations, or attending events like their annual 5K, residents can engage with the organization and contribute to its lasting mission.
As the Brothers of Mercy celebrates its centennial, the values of charity, compassion, and innovation remain steadfast. From its humble beginnings in Buffalo to its comprehensive wellness campus today, the Brothers of Mercy continue to inspire hope, healing, and a sense of family for all they serve.
For more information or to support the Brothers of Mercy, visit BrothersOfMercy.org.