Family Counseling Services in Wausau, WI

Starting in 1914, Family Counseling Services, originally known as Federated Charities, was founded by Wausau business and church leaders to provide care for members of this community.  Annually, thousands of clothing, household, and grocery items were provided to families in need.  Until 1930, these services were funded by donations directly from the community.  In 1930 Community Chest was organized and funded the agency's work.  Other early services included public health nurses services, free hospital beds provided at both community hospitals, and a children's infirmary on the second floor of the offices on the site of our present location.  Wausau's first policewoman was hired using agency funds until the city could put this in their budget.  Federated Chairites, now Family Counseling Services, has played a central role in our community.  From the beginning, agency staff recognized the need to provide counseling for the clients along with the other services.  The goal of the agency then and now continues to be the same: to strengthen family life.