About This Discussion Draft
This booklet began as an effort to identify best practices for residents who serve as voting members of CCRC corporate governing boards. As the work has progressed, it has become clear that the subject is broader than the role of resident directors alone. Effective resident participation depends upon healthy relationships among the governing board, management, staff, resident organizations, and the resident community itself. The project is therefore evolving into a broader discussion of governance in Life Plan Communities.
The first draft intentionally emphasized ideas and invited discussion. It was reviewed by experienced resident leaders, current and former resident directors, governance practitioners, and others familiar with CCRC operations. Their comments have been encouraging. Most agreed with the underlying principles while suggesting that the document become more concise, better organized, and more firmly grounded in established governance authorities.
Accordingly, the next version will be substantially revised. Rather than expanding the discussion, we will tighten the writing, reduce redundancy, and organize the material around a concise set of foundational principles. Important recommendations will be supported by footnotes and a bibliography drawing upon nonprofit governance authorities such as BoardSource, the National Council of Nonprofits, the IRS, healthcare governance guidance, CCRC-specific resources, and relevant professional literature.
The booklet will also be presented as Best Practices and Commentary. The best practices will identify principles that NaCCRA believes should be broadly applicable across Life Plan Communities. The accompanying commentary will explain the reasoning behind those recommendations, discuss alternative approaches where appropriate, and encourage thoughtful discussion rather than prescribe a single model for every community.
Our objective is not to criticize providers or promote an adversarial relationship between residents and management. On the contrary, we believe that strong governance depends upon collaboration, transparency, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to the community's long-term success. Resident participation in governance is most effective when it strengthens trust, improves the board's understanding of community life, and helps ensure that the organization remains faithful to its mission.
We hope this evolving document will become a practical resource for resident directors, governing boards, resident associations, management teams, and policymakers. More importantly, we hope it stimulates a broader national conversation about governance practices that strengthen both nonprofit stewardship and the communities these organizations exist to serve.
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Richmond Shreve
NaCCRA Board Member & VP
Forum Moderator