Corporate leadership roles will be shared across the two organizations

Mennonite Home Communities of Ohio (MHCO) has announced its formal affiliation with the Brethren Retirement Community (BRC) of  Greenville, Ohio, effective December 31, 2024.

The announcement notes, "This partnership marks a significant milestone in MHCO’s nearly 70-year mission of providing a Christ-centered community that promotes personal decision-making and purposeful living for older adults."

Under the terms of the affiliation, MHCO becomes a wholly owned subsidiary of BRC while maintaining its identity and presence in Northwest Ohio. MHCO will continue to operate as a separate legal entity, but corporate leadership roles—such as CEO and CFO—will be shared across the two organizations. This collaboration will enable MHCO to secure better rates for essential vendor contracts, including food, medical supplies and insurance, ultimately benefiting  residents and care partners. 

Additionally, MHCO’s name, signage and dedication to the community will remain unchanged.  A newly formed MHCO Mission Board will ensure local support and oversight of MHCO’s mission within the larger organization. 

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The announcement also notes, "Since its founding in 1955, MHCO has evolved to meet the changing needs of the senior care  environment. MHCO offers a wide range of services, including skilled nursing, short-term rehabilitation, assisted living, and independent living, across three Bluffton campuses:  Mennonite Memorial Home, Maple Crest and Willow Ridge. 

"Recognizing the importance of sustainability and growth, the MHCO Board of Directors has  carefully considered opportunities to strengthen its mission and better serve the community.  After years of thoughtful deliberation and collaboration, the Board has determined that affiliating  with BRC is the best path forward."

The affiliation formalizes a relationship that began in 2019 when MHCO and  BRC initiated discussions with a long-term vision of collaboration. In November 2019, BRC began providing consultation and management services to MHCO, and the partnership has grown every year. 

Elizabeth Kelly, Chair of the MHCO Board of Directors, comments, “The five-year relationship (2019–2024) between Mennonite Home Communities of Ohio and Brethren Retirement Community has stood the test of time and unexpected changes in long-term care,” said “Our Board unanimously supports the affiliation and the continuing service of both organizations. We are grateful for a common mission and goals that strengthen us and the communities we serve.” 

Founded in 1902, BRC is a faith-based provider of senior housing and care located in Darke County, Ohio. “For the past five years, Brethren Retirement Community and Mennonite Home Communities of  Ohio have worked closely together to further MHCO’s mission,” said John Warner, President  and CEO of BRC. “This next step in our relationship will help us build upon the foundation  which has been set in place, looking for opportunities to continue to grow and serve in Bluffton and the surrounding communities.”