Q: Is the Passport Program the same thing as the waiting list? What are the benefits of being a member?

The Passport Program is not the same thing as the waiting list. Being a member of the Passport Program allows priority on the waiting list. When a Passport Member is ready to move to Meadowlark Hills, they have priority according to their enrollment date on duplexes, cottages, apartments, assisted living apartments and long-term care apartments over non-members. Therefore, if several people are wanting the same living option, the person with the longest established passport membership will get priority .

There are many more perks to being a Passport member than just establishing priority. There are three different levels of the Passport Program: Passport Holder, Passport Diplomat and Passport VIP. These memberships are gradual in the types and amounts of activities members may participate in to better suit people at different stages of life.

Passport Holders receive invitations to Meadowlark Hills-sponsored events, may reserve our guest suites and may use wellness services. This membership is a $250 fee. Diplomats also receive invitations to Meadowlark Hills-sponsored events, but do not receive information about current or upcoming vacancies and are not eligible for vacancies. The fee for this membership is $500. VIPs receive the same access as Diplomats as well as news of vacancies, invitations to Meadowlark Hills-sponsored events, complimentary transportation three times yearly and also may purchase dining packages for use in our restaurant, cafe and pub. This membership fee is $1,000. All of these membership fees are refundable, less $100, at any time prior to moving to Meadowlark Hills.

Recently, I have noticed an increase in Passport members’ involvement in the exercise classes, day trips, week-long trips and events around campus such as the Christmas Carousel and Wellness Fair. It is wise for community members who are planning on eventually moving to Meadowlark Hills to establish this membership and be able to participate in activities such as these before moving to Meadowlark Hills for many reasons. Passport membership must be established before a person can gain residency here at Meadowlark Hills so establishing this membership early allows for more use. Also it allows community members and potential residents to become familiar with Meadowlark Hills, its amenities and the residents prior to moving, making for a much smoother transition.

Passport memberships are purchased on an individual basis (i.e. for a couple, both the parties would need their own membership). For more information on the Passport Club and memberships please see Kinzie Jo Zimmerman or Becky Fitzgerald in the Sales offices or by calling (785) 323-3802.

Thank you for another great question, keep them coming.