History and Purpose of the ADRC

Buffalo and Pepin Counties have been working together since 2009 with the creation of the multicounty Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). In 2009, the creation of the ADRC involved Buffalo, Clark, and Pepin Counties.
In 2015, exploration began with neighboring counties to seek additional partners for a regional, integrated ADRC model. A task force was created to explore organizational designs that would integrate Aging Services into the ADRC. Several counties considered the idea of a partnership for a regional, integrated model however none were interested, for various reasons.
On December 31, 2016, the ADRC of Buffalo, Clark, and Pepin Counties dissolved and on January 1, 2017, the ADRC of Buffalo and Pepin Counties was created. The new ADRC was not only regional but also integrated. This means that both Buffalo and Pepin Counties Aging Services were now part of the ADRC and all required ADRC and Aging services are provided through the ADRC.
As of January 1, 2020, all volunteers and employees were hired by Pepin County, which provides consistency of operations for ADRC staff and volunteers. As of January 1, 2022, Pepin County is the fiscal lead for the ADRC.
A regional and integrated ADRC/Aging model provides streamlined access to services, allows agencies to effectively utilize available resources, improve customer service, and increase the breadth of knowledge of all staff to serve older adults and adults with disabilities in our communities.
Being a regional, integrated ADRC also allows Buffalo and Pepin Counties to maximize funding. It would be very challenging for smaller counties, like Buffalo and Pepin, to meet the contractual requirements with the allocated funding.
Finally, regionalization and integration allow for more efficient service delivery to consumers and improved customer service. As a result, there are less silos and more blending of programs and services.
For more information about the history of Wisconsin's ADRCs, click here