"The role of not-for-profits as one of three major institutions in America, is nothing more than to change lives,"
—Peter Drucker, Management Consultant, 1990

For more than 250 years, the not-for-profit sector has played a crucial role in American society. Americans look first to not-for-profit organizations when they need to undertake important work for the good of society.

Taking care of our aging population is one area where not-for-profits have been leaders and innovators throughout U.S. history. Not-for-profit facilities exist for only one reason: to provide high quality services for their residents. They turn any surplus income back into improving facilities or expanding services. Not-for-profits are governed by community-based board of trustees who are all volunteers. These men and women donate their time and talent to ensure that a not-for-profit organization's approach to caring for older people responds to local needs.

The not-for-profit approach to aging services places emphasis on providing an atmosphere of fellowship and caring; on meeting the social, physical, and spiritual needs of the individual; and on helping older persons achieve the dignity and quality of life that they deserve in their retirement years. The emphasis on caring and on placing the need of the individual above all else has become the hallmark of not-for-profit homes and services for the aging.

State and federal governments have supported the work of not-for-profits by exempting them from the financial burden of paying taxes. And for over a century, nonprofits have proved that this status carries a responsibility to serve those who no one else will serve and to implement innovations that catalyze change across the continuum of care.

AAHSA and its members are committed to maintaining and expanding the Not-for-Profit Difference in aging services through research, advocacy and education.

Aging Services: The Not-for-Profit Difference
This brochure succinctly explains how not-for-profit organizations stand the test of time and provide high quality care and services to older adults every day.