Two of the leading not-for-profit agencies in Mansfield will be merging beginning at the first of the year.

The Center for Individual and Family Services and the Rehabilitation Center of North Central Ohio signed a document to bring the agencies together, first through a management agreement, that was effective Nov. 2, and through a formal integration of services effective Dec. 31.

Center CEO/President Veronica Groff will be the chief administrator for both agencies. Both organizations underwent a three-month research and feasibility study regarding what opportunities might exist by each working more closely together.

Center board chairman Charles Cook said the result was both organization's boards signed a letter of intent for due diligence. Both agencies will have their children's treatment programs housed at the Rehab Center. New Beginnings Halfway House in Mansfield also will maintain its identity and Progress Industries will combine with the Center's vocational programs.