Nonprofit Senior Living Explained: Insights from Our Executive Director

Why do you think interested parties are choosing not-for-profit Life Plan Communities (LPC)?

Dan McManus, Executive Director: I think they’re choosing not-for-profit life plan communities for a number of reasons. They appreciate that because of our Benevolent Care program, once they become part of the community, they will never have to leave due to running out of financial resources. I also think they appreciate the welcoming feeling in our communities and how both residents and associates really care for and take care of each other. An LPC like ours is committed to providing residents with:

• A lifetime of care
• Reassurance
• Advocacy

How would you describe the not-for-profit difference to a prospective resident and their loved ones?

Dan McManus, Executive Director: Being a not-for-profit doesn’t mean we don’t make a profit; it means the profit we make goes directly back into our communities, which makes a significant difference in how we run our organization. The decisions we make are not driven by maximizing profits for shareholders, but by what is best to serve our residents, family members, and associates. We listen to our constituents’ stories and address their needs first and foremost. That allows us to:

• Fulfill our mission
• Place care above profit
• Create a comforting, neighborly culture

What are the different funds available through the LEC Foundation, and what do they accomplish?

Dan McManus, Executive Director: Donors can direct their gifts and donations to multiple funds:

• Greatest Needs supports residents in long-term nursing who are on Medicaid.
• Associate Assistance supports our associates who have experienced a financial crisis and need an immediate boost to get back on their feet.
• Hospice is a growing initiative in Columbus that provides end-of-life care.
• Benevolent Care allows residents in Independent and Assisted Living to remain in their home if they run out of financial resources.
• Pastoral Care supports our chaplains and their programs to provide a culture of warmth, acceptance, and friendship.

As is our Christian heritage, the idea of loving and taking care of our neighbors is something we strive for each and every day.

What opportunities does the LEC Foundation provide residents and associates alike?

Dan McManus, Executive Director: In addition to financial support, the Foundation offers many:

• Educational events
• Volunteer opportunities
• Community gatherings residents can take part in to enrich their lives and better understand and support our mission

We also hold an annual Mission In Action to be transparent about our work and show how LEC’s mission impacts our communities. And to celebrate the residents who left their community in their estate plans or have made significant donations to the Foundation over time, we hold Living Legacy Club Luncheons. Besides giving back to the community, we want to give thanks to all the people who make that possible.

How does the LEC Foundation partner with other departments to achieve goals?

Dan McManus, Executive Director: The LEC Foundation has developed strong working relationships with a variety of departments at LEC to impact people’s lives for the better:

• The marketing department helps us communicate our purpose and how we support the mission.
• The finance department helps us streamline our resources.
• The events and programs department helps us engage new people.

Our LPC works together to make our mission of providing exceptional everyday experiences possible for those we serve.

What advice would you give to future residents and their support systems when exploring their options for the future?

Dan McManus, Executive Director: Look into senior living while you still have your health. I have met many residents who love where they live, but wish they had moved in earlier. They have met many new friends, and much of their stress has gone down because they know they are cared for and no longer have the responsibility or cost of maintaining a house. There is a very strong support system in place to help them in their times of need.

Life Enriching Communities is committed to equipping you with a plan for the future. Learn more about our senior life plan communities at lec.org.