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| '''Founded in 1993 by Dr. Robert Sparks''', the Maryland Continuing Care Residents Association (MaCCRA) is a non-profit, volunteer-led organization dedicated to protecting the rights, financial security, and well-being of residents in Maryland’s Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs). MaCCRA serves as the leading advocate for CCRC residents, influencing significant state legislation regarding operating reserves, governance, and disclosures.
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| '''Key Historical Milestones'''
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| * '''1993:''' Founded by Dr. Robert Sparks, a Broadmead resident and retired state economist, to represent the interests of CCRC residents.
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| * '''1994-1995:''' Early legislative efforts led to the creation of the Continuing Care Advisory Committee, in cooperation with the Maryland Department of Aging.
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| * '''1996:''' Achieved major legislative success with SB 543 (amending Article 70B), establishing requirements for operating reserves, governance, disclosures, and change of ownership.
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| * '''2000-2002:''' Supported regulations regarding direct admission to CCRC nursing homes and secured further changes in CCRC governance (2001).
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| * '''Ongoing Advocacy:''' Over 30 years, MaCCRA has grown to represent over 20,000 residents across Maryland, focusing on financial transparency, grievance policies, and quality of care.
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| '''Core Purposes and Activities'''
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| * '''Legislative Advocacy:''' Employs lobbyists to push for stronger consumer protection laws, including increased resident representation on governing boards and the establishment of resident grievance procedures.
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| * '''Education and Structure:''' Organizes local chapters within various Maryland CCRCs to inform residents of their rights and foster community engagement.
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| * '''Member Support:''' Focuses on the security of entrance fees and the quality of assisted living/skilled nursing care within CCRCs.
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| MaCCRA continues to act as the sole organization dedicated exclusively to the advocacy of CCRC residents in Maryland.
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