Misericordia has a rich history of meeting pressing issues of the times. In 1921,Misericordia first opened its doors as a maternity hospital for women of meager means,at 2916 West 47th Street in Chicago

Misericordia recognized an even greater need in society—helping young children with intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities. From this humble yet noble beginning grew Misericordia as it is known today.

In August of 1969 a young Sister of Mercy named Rosemary Connelly first walked through Misericordia’s doors—marking a significant moment in the organization’s history.

Misericordia opens the north campus. Angel Guardian Orphanage, announced it would cease operations at its 31 - acre campus at 6300 North Ridge Avenue in Chicago. At the same time Sister Rosemary was looking for a home for ambulatory children who did not require the skilled nursing services provided at Misericordia. She wanted a home - like setting where they could grow in independence. The Archdiocese generously offered a portion of the campus with the understanding that any new construction and all operations would be the responsibility of Misericordia.

Residential campus growth – The Heart of Mercy Village is completed. Each of the nine houses is home to 12 adults with varying degrees of developmental disabilities. “We have attempted to create a living community that will allow the maximum degree of participation with the outside world.” - Sister Rosemary Connelly, RSM. Throughout the 1980’s the campus saw tremendous growth.

The late 1980’s saw an increase in programming and work opportunities for our residents with the addition of the art department, giftshop, bakery with a deli. These programs would later grow to the businesses you see today.

Witnessed continued expansion at Misericordia with more residential areas to meet the growing need. One of the most notable achievements was the opening of the first Community Integrated Living Arrangement (CILA) off campus in 1996. The Moore Aquatic Fitness Center opened offering a variety of leisure and exercise opportunities.

In 2005, Misericordia South closes and The Mother Catherine McAuley Residence is opened for our residents who are the most medically complex. Throughout the early to mid-2000s, Misericordia would continue to build and open residential areas on and off campus to invite for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to be a part of the Misericordia Family.

In 2015 the Thomas & Vita Donovan Dental Clinic opens on Campus. The grassroots organization Together for Choice is formed in 2015 to allow residents like ours the choice of setting and where they want to live. In 2016, Quinlan Terrace opens, achieving a campus with a full continuum of care. These four homes are specifically designed for our aging population. The Day Makers – A Tricoci Salon opens in 2018.

Sixteen newly constructed homes on campus are opened in 2025 - Sister Rosemary Connelly Park, allowing an additional 120 residents to become a part of the Misericordia Family. The Gildo Mazzolin Recreation Center is opened, giving our residents additional space to focus on their health and activities. Misericordia continues to grow its CILA program throughout the Chicagoland area.