How do I reassure families when my senior day program changes hands?

Plan the announcement with the buyer. Write a short letter, then follow it with a meeting where families can ask questions. Share who the new owner is, their background and why they care about the program. Be honest about what is not yet decided and promise a date for the answers.

Then focus on continuity. If staff, schedules, menus and activities are staying, say so, and mention staff by name. Introduce the new owner at the program, on a day families visit, so they see a real person. Arrange for the buyer to spend time with participants, since the people attending matter most.

Afterwards, keep communicating. Name one contact for concerns, answer calls quickly, and follow up with the families who sounded worried. Check agreements and records with your lawyer to see what must be passed on. A short written update after closing helps families feel that the promise was kept. Expect some families to react strongly. Listen first, avoid defending the decision, and write down any concern that should be passed to the buyer so it is dealt with after closing and not forgotten. Try also to hold a visiting day after closing, so families can see the new routines for themselves and ask what they like.

Key takeaways

• Announce the sale yourself, with a letter and a meeting for questions.
• Name staff and routines that are staying, and introduce the new owner in person.
• Give families one contact and follow up with those who sound worried.