Motherhouse Administration Services

Today's religious communities are changing and facing challenges they have not faced in the past. Previously it was common for a member of the community to take the full-time responsibility for overall house administration. However, many religious house administrators desire to change ministry or retire. If another member is not available to fill the position, the congregation is faced with the challenge of finding a management that is best for the facility(ies) and the community members who live and work there.

In addition, there may be major operational issues, for example, cost concerns, building renovations, long-term care, retirement problems, etc., that are waiting because they require special expertise. Perhaps lay administration is an option for your community.

Whatever the reason, the consideration to transition to a lay administrator is a very sensitive matter because of the emotional impact of bringing an outsider into your home. This decision requires a very thoughtful approach.

The Decision Process

If you and your community are about to explore the need for lay administration for your motherhouse, provincialate, or nursing facility, the following list of ten questions can be used as a starting point.

1. Our current administrator, a member of our community, does not seem to want to continue in the role of administrator. What factors should we consider in the decision process to find a qualified lay replacement? How does the transition work, and how long does it usually take?
2. What issues have arisen that are causing you to consider a change in house administration? Are these issues likely to persist over the longer-term?
3. Staff relation problems, maintenance issues, and overall operation demands are getting too complicated. Will we be able to effectively manage all the changes in these areas?
4. Have you identified operational problems in food service, housekeeping, maintenance, etc? Do you have the resources or time to implement permanent change?
5. There are various organizations that could provide administration services for us. Are there any that understand our unique needs and understand that this is our home?
6. If we hire an outside administrator, what kind of experience should they have? Will the administrator understand the need to partner with us?
7. What type of pre-analysis is needed before bringing in outside management? How flexible will the management company be in defining roles and responsibilities?
8. How do we gain our community's acceptance of the need to hire an outside administrator? How do we coordinate the administrative and religious functions?
9. How will our new model of an outside administrator "fit" with our current model of congregational management?
10. What other communities could we contact as a reference for firms that have experience managing their motherhouse operations?

The experts at Zielinski Companies are available to help you answer these questions. We can provide interim or long-term qualified management solutions to the most difficult motherhouse management issues. Our managing administrators are in daily contact with our office and can tap into knowledge and experience professionals in facility management, finance, fund development, and personnel.

With our proven motherhouse administration approach, you will secure a knowledgeable administrator. You will also be receiving the knowledge and energy of a whole team of management experts dedicated to achieving your goals.

Management Services Approach and Philosophy

• Each community we serve is unique. Over 50 years of experience gives us a unique understanding of the culture underlying religious life. We understand your history and want to help you build the future.
• We believe it is essential for you to stay involved in your facility and retain your part in the decision making process.
• Our management approach is tailored to meet the special needs of your house. Every facility has special circumstances that require different approaches. We will adjust our approach to your unique situation.
• Your leadership is important. We will join you and maintain a positive management atmosphere and provide skilled technical expertise.
• The role of lay staff is an important one. They are a vital component in the success of house management.
• Most importantly, we understand that the motherhouse is you home. We will promote family community values in our work with you.

Operational Review-A Possible Starting Point

In many instances, an on-site operational review of your current motherhouse operations will provide an effective starting point for your consideration of lay administration of your motherhouse. Such a review will provide you with valuable insight into key operational areas. The operational review will look at these areas in terms of both quality of care and cost effectiveness. You will receive an action oriented assessment.