President and CEO’s Update – Brian Doherty, CAE

Standing Together for Safer, Stronger Communities

Q3, September 2025

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Dear Members,

This summer has been one of reflection and collaboration across assisted living in Massachusetts. The tragic Gabriel House fire in Fall River remains in our thoughts, and our deepest sympathies are with all affected by this loss. Events like this reaffirm our shared responsibility to continually enhance safety and resident experience in all communities.

Our heartfelt thanks go to the fire department and first responders for their swift, courageous efforts to protect and assist residents. Mass-ALA worked closely with state officials and the Massachusetts Long Term Care Mutual Aid Plan (MassMAP) to help relocate residents from the shelter. Thank you to the MassMAP members who responded quickly to the emergency request.

Mass-ALA is fully engaged in the state’s Fire and Life Safety Initiative, announced by Governor Healey. Completing the fire and life safety survey is a practical way members can contribute to stronger safeguards for those we serve.. These results are important as we reinforce established practices and stay focused on our residents’ well-being.

If your community needs assistance updating your disaster preparedness policies, our upcoming Compliance Trainings are a great place to start. Each session includes disaster preparedness, safety, and compliance topics to support your leadership teams in operational readiness. Sign up for individual sessions or take the whole series by signing up here.

Compliance Series:

The Assisted Living Residences Commission continues gathering input before its report, recognizing the value of informed recommendations. The timeline extension, with the report expected by year’s end, allows stakeholders to share ideas for strengthening oversight and preparedness.

Your strength, compassion, and commitment to assisted living are deeply appreciated. Mass-ALA remains here to support you and is committed to learning from the findings of the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s investigation. Each step forward reflects our priority: ensuring Massachusetts’ assisted living communities remain places of trust, independence, and quality. Thank you for your ongoing participation and dedication, which continues to shape the future of assisted living statewide.