I’d like to shed a little more light on the recent announcement and our relationship with LeadingAge. I was informed of the merger with MADSA last week and asked to keep it confidential until their announcement went out “sometime this week.”
It is my understanding that MADSA approached LeadingAge about this merger. LeadingAge has been the mailing address for MADSA and has provided some services to that assn. for some time. MADSA has a part-time staff person and two highly involved Co-Chairs (volunteer).
I believe their current structure wasn’t sustainable. So, what Anne shared about the differences in our associations is accurate. The timing is unfortunate, because of the potential perception.
In light of your concerns, I had a conversation with Lori Meyer at LeadingAge this morning. We’ve agreed that should anything of this level arise in the future (they do NOT have any other impending news!), I will ask for permission to share
confidential news with the MHCA Board, as appropriate. Gayle Kvenvold and Lorry Massa and I had already agreed to have regular Exec meetings when we share space.
Lori Meyer and I just agreed to pull the article about our move from their weekly enews today. There will be an article about the MADSA merger, as agreed upon with MADSA. There isn’t a “need” for them to share that we are moving in so that
will be delayed. I also requested that their staff be cognizant of “how” they are sharing the news.
I also met with Patti Cullen from CareProviders yesterday. I was able to clarify our move/relationship with LeadingAge. There appear to be rumors within the small LTC world that have likely caused additional assumptions. Patti and I discussed
some previous challenges and a few possible collaborative opportunities - and she acknowledged that they have one staff person that is not as easy to partner with (which has historically led to some bumps in the road). All in all, it was a productive meeting.
Patti and I have known each other for years and I believe that will help us navigate through the changes.
Please let me know if you have additional questions or concerns. It’s important that we continue to address them and seek clarification. Thanks!
Warm Regards,
Kathy Messerli
Executive Director
Minnesota HomeCare Association
Office: 651-635-0038 | Cell: 612-590-4180
MHCA Mission: MHCA represents and supports Minnesota home care providers committed to high quality home care services