Maine Health Care Association

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Maine Health Care Association

Established in 1954, MHCA is a statewide non-profit trade association representing long-term care

Governed by a Board of Directors, MHCA is the largest advocacy organization for facility-based long term care providers in Maine. Our membership includes nursing homes and assisted living/residential care facilities (also known as PNMIs). Members provide a range of long term care services that may include skilled nursing, rehabilitation or post-acute care, hospice, adult day care and independent living services. MHCA membership also includes 200 associate members, or companies, that provide valuable products and services to long term care providers. MHCA is the state affiliate of the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living based in Washington, DC. MHCA is committed to advancing the quality of services, image, professional development and financial stability of its members. Our education and advocacy on long-term care issues are at the heart of our service to our members and those who work or reside in a long-term care facility.

06/08/2025

Congratulations to St. Andre's Health Care on their Silver National Quality Award from AHCA/NCAL! This award recognizes a commitment to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to their residents! Well done St. André Health Care!!

05/08/2025

We are thrilled to announce that 12 centers in Maine have earned the AHCA/NCAL 2025 Bronze National Quality Award! This achievement reflects a continued promise to provide exceptional care and a safe, supportive environment for every resident these homes serve.

04/07/2025

Happy Independence Day! Our office will be closed on Friday, July 4th, in observance of the holiday.

To all our long-term care providers—thank you for your unwavering dedication and the incredible care you provide every day.

30/06/2025

Jim Young, Fallbrook Commons, Portland

Coming of age in segregated Baltimore in the 1940s and ’50s, Jim Young was moved by the injustice around him. Guided by a strong sense of empathy, he took early action to advocate for integration at his local Dundalk Methodist Church. While attending Johns Hopkins University, he joined his youth group in efforts to demand change and educate older members of the congregation, marking the beginning of a lifetime of principled action.

After graduating, Jim studied theology at Boston University, where he met Kathleen, a nursing student he fell in love with at first sight. Following their graduation, the couple moved across the Northeast for Jim’s United Methodist Church assignments before settling in Bangor, then Portland, Maine.

Throughout the 1960s, Jim remained deeply engaged in social justice. He worked with groups like the NAACP, organized local and national marches for civil rights and peace, and in 1968 was appointed to the Governor’s Task Force on Human Rights by Governor Ken Curtis.

Over the years, Jim developed meaningful relationships with political leaders—from Margaret Chase Smith to Angus King—but speaks just as warmly of volunteers who ran food programs or organized community events. None of it, he says, would have been possible without Kathleen, who supported his work and fielded countless calls over the years.

Not everyone agreed with his stances, but Jim takes pride in a life lived according to his convictions. He and Kathleen raised two children, MaryAnn and Jay, both thoughtful and socially conscious. Now, 62 years into marriage, reflecting on a life of activism and service, Jim offers just four words: “It was worth it.”

Photography by Wyndee Grosso Photography, Westbrook

29/06/2025

Brian Wren, Seal Rock Healthcare, S**o

Born in 1936 in Romford, Essex England, Brian Wren is an internationally published hymn and poet writer. His work includes over 250 hymns, poems and books. Brian’s legacy not only includes his written work but also his service to others and his focus on inclusive language and issues of social justice. His service to others began in 1955 when he served in the British Army for two years. After his time in the service, he spent the next decade furthering his education receiving a B.A. in Modern Language from Oxford University, a B.A. in Theology from Oxford University, and a D.Phil in theology of Old Testament from Oxford University. In 1965, Brian was ordained at the United Reformed Church of Great Britain and served as the minister of Hockley and Hawkwell Congregational Church for 5 years. Brian’s journey in charitable work did not stop as a minister as he expanded his outreach internationally to focus on justice issues. He worked for the Churches’ Action on World Development, Third World First, and served as a member of the Executive Board of the UK Aid Charity, War on Want. In 1983, his life’s devotion and hymn writing took him to the United States, New Zealand, Australia, Canada and Japan.

Early on, Brian had a way to ensure that hymns focused on inclusive language in worship. Furthermore, some of Brian’s early work focused on the shift to using contemporary speech in prayers and hymns. His work continues to be included in collections for all denominations throughout the English-speaking world along with some translations for other languages. In 1999, Brian’s hymn “Hidden Christ, Alive for Ever” was runner up in the International Millennium Hymn Competition. This hymn was sung at St. Paul’s Cathedral in January of 2000 as part of the Cathedral’s Millennium Gift to the Nation”. His hymn text titled “Christ Is Alive” is one of the mostly widely sung hymns of today. In addition to the work as an international writer, Brian is a devoted father and grandfather. He is married to Rev. Dr. Susan Heafield, a United Methodist minister. Brian is a pioneer in hymn writing, and his legacy and work continues to be present in hymnals, song collections and choral anthems across the world.

Photography by Wyndee Grosso Photography, Westbrook

28/06/2025

William Thomson, Sentry Hill at York Harbor, York

William Thomson is a remarkable man whose life has enriched both the York community and his fellow residents at Sentry Hill. A longtime fixture at York Beach and the Nubble Lighthouse, Bill is fondly remembered with easel and palette in hand, capturing the beauty of the Maine coast.

A professor of history at Salem State University in Massachusetts, Bill specialized in colonial America with a focus on how the Revolution shaped everyday life in New England towns. He is the author of 20 books and has contributed to eight documentaries, including the Legendary Lighthouse series featured on PBS, Discovery Channel, and the Learning Channel. He also collaborated with musician Tim Janus on a series of historical CDs featuring Bill’s narration of stories, poems, and events.

A stalwart advocate for lighthouse preservation, Bill worked closely with the Coast Guard and lighthouse keepers to document and share their history. As artist-in-residence at Nubble Lighthouse, he sold over 200,000 prints of his paintings, with proceeds supporting the lighthouse’s preservation.

Bill remains deeply involved at Sentry Hill, leading painting classes, music listening parties, and historical discussions. One of his favorite stories is that of the Flying Santa Claus—a tradition started in 1926 by Captain Bill Wincap, who, after being saved by lighthouse beacons in the fog, began a yearly airdrop of Christmas gifts to lighthouse families. The tradition continues today, thanks in part to Bill’s storytelling.

With countless accolades for his work, Bill remains most proud of his contributions to the Nubble Lighthouse and the legacy he’s helped preserve. We are honored to have him as part of the Sentry Hill community.

Photography by Wyndee Grosso Photography, Westbrook

27/06/2025

Robert Takach, Maine Veterans' Homes - Augusta

Dr. Robert “Bob” Takach’s life is a powerful example of resilience, ambition, and service. Born in Ohio on August 2, 1935, to Hungarian immigrants, Bob didn’t speak English until age five and grew up sleeping on the other side of the wall from the jukebox in his parents’ restaurant. Despite humble beginnings, he excelled as valedictorian, class president, and later a Boston Marathon runner in 1978.

He earned his medical degree from Case Western Reserve and joined the Public Health Service with the Coast Guard during the Vietnam War. Serving in Alaska, Bob became a captain and earned his pilot’s license to reach remote villages, delivering babies and providing critical care where few others could.

Inspired by his early internship, Bob later pursued ophthalmology, completing a residency in Charleston, South Carolina. He moved to Maine and became a trailblazer, performing the state’s first laser retinal detachment surgeries. For 25 years in Waterville, he earned a reputation as a skilled surgeon and deeply caring physician.

At age 48, Bob welcomed his daughter, Jessica. They moved to Hawaii, then Oregon, before returning to Maine, where Bob practiced medicine another 15 years. His beloved retreat on Messalonskee Lake has brought his family joy for over 50 years.

Outside of medicine, Bob is an avid musician, karaoke fan, and gardener. Now a resident of Maine Veterans’ Homes in Augusta, he continues to inspire those around him with his remarkable story and unwavering spirit. From a boy who couldn’t speak English to a medical pioneer, Dr. Takach’s life is a true American success story built on grit and excellence.

Photography by Dianne Chicoine, West Gardiner

26/06/2025

Susan St. Mary, Bay Square at Yarmouth

Susan St. Mary was born on December 7, 1944, in Shaker Heights, Ohio, and has been touching lives ever since. She earned her undergraduate degree from Wellesley College and went on to receive her medical degree from Northwestern, driven by a deep calling to help others.

She settled in Freeport with her first husband and young son, Robert. Shortly after, she divorced and a few years later married her husband Jonathan. Around the time she moved to Freeport, she started her pediatric nephrology and general pediatric practice in Yarmouth. It was here that her reputation for compassionate, joyful care took root. To Sue, medicine was never just a job. It was a lifestyle centered on making a difference. She often brought her work home, dedicating extra hours to calls and paperwork to ensure her patients received the best care. Known for making appointments fun, she still keeps a puppet on hand to bring smiles to those around her.

For over 40 years, Sue saved and improved the lives of countless children across the region. Along the way, she built a strong network of colleagues and friends who continue to admire her motivation and warmth.

Outside of work, Sue and Jonathan, married for nearly 40 years, loved boating along Maine’s coast. She also found joy in singing proudly with her local choir and, in retirement, volunteering with her caring therapy dogs, Allie and Jack, at local healthcare facilities.

Now a cherished resident at Bay Square, Sue remains active and influential. She can often be seen walking her labs, visiting with friends, and sharing insights during nursing meetings. Her wisdom, kindness, and vibrant spirit continue to uplift the entire community. Susan’s record of care and connection is nothing short of remarkable.

Photography by Wyndee Grosso Photography, Westbrook

25/06/2025

Marny Smith, 75 State Street, Portland

Marny Smith’s life is rooted in love: love for family, community, nature, and all living things. A mother of five, grandmother of 15, and twice-married, Marny is known for her intelligence, wit, warmth, and deep sense of purpose.

Marny left Vassar in her junior year to start a family but later returned to her studies, graduating from Sarah Lawrence at age 61. Always ahead of her time, she became a passionate environmentalist long before the movement was mainstream. Driven to protect the planet, she organized citizen groups to preserve natural spaces, coordinated organic gardening projects for Save the Children in places like Tunisia, Egypt, and Dominica, and authored two books on gardening. Her own garden was so spectacular that NBC’s Willard Scott once broadcast from it.

Marny’s commitment to meaningful causes is wide-ranging. She worked as a Recycling Coordinator in Darien, CT; educated the public for the Department of Environmental Protection; led local and global environmental initiatives; advocated for children with mental health needs; and served as Director of Development at Connecticut Audubon. She was also involved with three land trusts, local conservation commissions, and served as a Mill River guide, teaching children about the natural world.

In her Massachusetts Quaker retirement community, Marny remained active, serving on the Philanthropy, Art, and Native Plant committees and leading monthly Community Circle meetings.

Now in her 90s and newly settled at 75 State Street in Portland, Maine, Marny continues to foster friendships and build community. She remains a quiet force of nature and is always thoughtful, generous, and steadfast. Her life is a remarkable legacy of love, purpose, and action.

Photography by Wyndee Grosso Photography, Westbrook

24/06/2025

Brenda Reed, Barron Center, Portland

Brenda Reed was born in 1956 in New Jersey, the eldest of three sisters. A bright and driven student, she graduated early from Holmdel High School and went on to George Washington University. Throughout her youth, Brenda was deeply involved in the equestrian world, competing in the demanding three-day sport of Eventing, which includes dressage, cross-country, and stadium jumping.

At age 26, Brenda joined the founding team of USA Today, rising to become Operations Manager, which was a rare leadership role for a woman in the male-dominated newsroom of the early 1980s. Her career highlights include covering President Reagan’s inauguration, receiving a press pass to the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, and working alongside trailblazer Geraldine Ferraro. She later helped open the Newseum, a museum focused on journalism and news, where she continued to work post-launch.

After being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, Brenda relocated to Maine for family support. Undeterred by her diagnosis, she began a second riding career at Hearts & Horses, a therapeutic riding center in Buxton. Refusing most adaptive equipment, Brenda used her remaining signature determination to ride with minimal assistance. Even with limited mobility, she stretched, led her horse through the barn, and continued to ride independently. Her skill and drive inspired new riders and instructors alike.

Since moving to the Barron Center in 2012, Brenda has been a vibrant part of the community. She’s active in the Resident Council, advocating for respect and kindness for peers and staff. With horses still visiting the Barron Center, thanks to her lasting connections, Brenda continues to embody resilience and joy.

“I’ve done everything,” she says. “Even dealing with all of this.”

Photography by Wyndee Grosso Photography, Westbrook

23/06/2025

Karen Pennell, East Point Assisted Living, Machias

Karen Thropp Pennell was born on May 10, 1944, in New York and has faced life’s challenges with quiet strength and grace. After losing her mother to breast cancer and her father to a stroke, Karen herself was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007. In 2017, she underwent a mastectomy and was later diagnosed with B-Cell Lymphoma. Today, she is a five-time cancer survivor.

Karen graduated from Russell Sage College in 1965 with a degree in Fine Arts and Music. She worked for 2 years at the Children’s Library in New Jersey, before transitioning to typesetting for a graphic design firm in New Jersey. In 1976, she moved to Maine with her son Jeff, where they bought a farmhouse and raked blueberries to pay property taxes.

She later had two more children, Deana and Trevor, and following a divorce, supported her family through piano lessons and various jobs. A gifted musician and composer, Karen was active in the Center Street Congregational Church choir and had her compositions performed at the University of Maine at Machias and in Eastport. Her professional journey included roles with the Wave Program, the Machias Planning Commission, Pine Tree Legal, the Washington County Association for MR Citizens, Milliken Insurance, and the Machias Valley News, where she worked until her retirement in 2013.

In retirement, Karen enjoys crocheting, knitting, picking wildflowers, and creating “happy books” for friends. Now a resident of East Point Assisted Living, she still explores the grounds, discovering new plants and flowers. Her proudest achievement is her three children and eight grandchildren. Reflecting on her life, Karen says she feels blessed and wouldn’t change a thing.

Photography by Leslie Bowman, Trescott

22/06/2025

Jim Pendleton, Scarborough Terrace, Scarborough

In a crowd, Jim Pendleton might not first catch your eye, being dressed in blue jeans and a button-down shirt, moving slowly but purposefully. Soft-spoken and humble, he patiently observes, waiting his turn to speak. But behind the gentle demeanor is a brilliant mind, a generous heart, and a life defined by kindness, humility, and quiet impact.

A lifelong educator with a master’s degree in chemistry and physics, Jim spent over four decades teaching, culminating in his “dream job” at Gorham State College (now USM) in 1967. His teaching career took him from Hawaii to NATO bases in Europe, but it was never about prestige. It was always about helping others learn and grow.

Born and raised on North Haven, Maine, during World War II, Jim was shaped by the values of island life: community, cooperation, and compassion. Those lessons stayed with him, guiding a life rooted in service, learning, and deep care for others.

After the passing of his beloved wife, Marj, Jim moved to Scarborough Terrace. Rather than retreat into grief, he embraced his next chapter with openness and purpose. Every day, he shares encouragement, compliments, and gentle wisdom, often wishing people the “best day ever.” His kindness is subtle but powerful, a daily reminder of the impact one person can have.

Jim’s life is not one of fanfare, but of deep, lasting influence. He reminds us that kindness matters, that patience uplifts, and that giving is better than receiving. He is, simply, one of the kindest and most positive people anyone could hope to meet. And Scarborough Terrace is better because of him.

Photography by Wyndee Grosso Photography, Westbrook

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Opening Hours

Monday	08:30 - 17:00
Tuesday	08:30 - 17:00
Wednesday	08:30 - 17:00
Thursday	08:30 - 17:00
Friday	08:30 - 17:00

Telephone

+12076231146

Website

http://www.mehca.org/

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