Dear GSLA Member,
Having champions of the senior living philosophy in the Legislature continues to be critical to our success. At the ALFA and GSLA conferences last fall, there was robust discussion about how our industry is under attack by plaintiff’s attorneys, who are following the “profits over people” playbook and garnering as much media exposure as possible in order to pressure companies into unjustified settlements. This has a spillover effect with our (well-intentioned) state legislators that may seek to “protect” this vulnerable population without understanding what is actually taking place. AARP recently reported that 19 million family caregivers are providing medical and nursing services in their home for which they have no training and are not qualified. Equally concerning is that 40% of these caregivers have symptoms of depression according to an Assessment of Family Caregivers report. The national tragedy for millions of Americans is that the quality of life for both the caregiver and the cared-for is thoroughly compromised and the outcomes are sometimes horrible and deadly. The growth of our industry is consumer-driven as we provide one of the best options for maximizing the quality of life for this frail population. As senior living leaders, it is critical that our voices be heard in the state legislature. That’s why we want to encourage you to support the GSLA PAC, so that in turn we can support elected officials who understand the philosophy of senior living and who are in a position to support policies that enhance the lives of seniors. In order to ensure that the scope of laws and regulations governing our ability to serve our residents remains appropriate, it is vital that we keep legislators in office who understand and support our mission and the benefits it provides and it is vital that we educate new legislators about those benefits. One of the best ways we can do that is through contributing to GSLA PAC. GSLA PAC Board has set a goal of raising $10,000 by the end of this membership year. Every dollar makes a difference by helping ensure that critical priorities are addressed at the State Capitol. A more robust GSLA PAC will help support these efforts and ultimately strengthen our ability to serve our residents and help them age with dignity and respect. Participation in GSLA PAC is voluntary, and you have the right to refuse to contribute without reprisal. I have personally made the decision to support our GSLA PAC, and I hope you will too. GSLA PAC has designated a few special tiers of contributions for your consideration:
Contributing to GSLA PAC is easy and all contributions are greatly appreciated. If you would like to make your contribution by credit card, please call our GSLA office at 678-407-2060. You may also make a contribution via a personal or company check. Please make your check payable to GSLA PAC and mail your contribution to: GSLA PAC, 2774 Cobb Pkwy NW, Suite 109 #359, Kennesaw, GA 30152. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact me. I feel strongly about the importance of GSLA PAC and hope you will join me in strengthening senior living’s voice at the State Capitol. Thank you! Bear Bear Mahon Past Chair, GSLA’s Political Action Committee |