Proposed CCAR + MIRA Merger: CCAR Member FAQs

CCAR and MIRA are exploring an opportunity to bring together two strong REALTOR® associations to create greater value for members, increase organizational capacity and position our members for the future.

The proposal follows months of thoughtful discussion by a joint Merger Task Force with representation from both associations. The Task Force considered the opportunities, challenges, advantages and disadvantages before recommending that the proposal move forward for member condiseration

CCAR Task Force Representatives: Deana Gauze, Casey Ryan, Jayme Ahlden, Nick Ward, PJ Trautman, and Matt Difanis

MIRA Task Force Representatives: Melanie Walker, Camill Tedrick, Garrett VonDerHeide, Tracy Patkunas, Ayn Bartok, John Armstrong, and Danell Moberly

FAQs: 

Why are CCAR and MIRA considering a merger? 

Both associations are financially strong and capable of continuing independently. This proposal is not being driven by financial necessity.

The question is whether bringing together our resources, staff, leadership and membership could create an even stronger organization and greater long-term value for members.

The Task Force believes there are meaningful opportunities to operate more efficiently, expand services and strengthen the resources available to members.

How would the merger expand CCAR's size and geographic reach?

A merger would bring together CCAR and MIRA to create a larger regional association of roughly 1,400 REALTORS® serving member across Central and Southern Illinois. 

MIRA currently represents approximately 870 RELATOR® members, including 366 members from the Egyptian Chapter of MIRA, which merged with MIRA in October 2025. Its current footprint includes three counties in Central Illinois and 27 counties in Southern Illinois. Combining that reach with CCAR's membership and service area would create an even broader network of REALTORS® and communities across Illinois. 

The map at the end of the FAQs show the geographic area that would be proposed by the combined Association.

How will leadership of the combined association work? 

The transition will be gradual and equitable. 

The proposed governance structure includes co-leadership from CCAR and MIRA during the first several years. Current Board members would continue serving their existing terms, allowing the Board to transition gradually rather than abruptly.

This provides continuity, geographic representation and familiar leadership while the two associations become one organization. 

Who will be CEO of the combined association?

Janet Cheney, current CEO of CCAR and Interim CEO of MIRA, would serve as CEO of the combines association.

Through her leadership of both organizations, Janet brings firsthand knowledge of each association, its members, operations and priorities. She is a Certified Association Executive and recently earned the REALTOR® Certified Association Executive (RCE) from the National Association of REALTORS®. That experience and perspective equip her to provide continuity, help ensure and seamless transition and confidently lead the combines association forward.

What will happen to dues and fees? 

A final dues and fee structure has not yet been established. CCAR and MIRA currently have different fee structures. and those differences will need to be addressed during merger planning.

The financial impact on members is an important consideration, and the proposed structure will be communicated before members are asked to make a final decision.

What could I gain as a CCAR member?

The goal is provide more value from your association membership. 

A combined organization could offer more staff expertise and member support, expanded education and professional development, greater investment in technology and services, additional networking and leadership opportunities, and access to a broader professional network. 

Combining resources gives us an opportunity to do more for members.

Will my business tools change?

The goal is minimal to no disruption to the way members conduct business.

CCAR and MIRA already share several core business tools including MRED, Supra, Forewarn and Dotloop.

Will my local market still have a voice?

Yes. Maintaining meaningful local representation is a priority.

CCAR and MIRA serve communities with different markets, priorities and identities across Central and Southern Illinois, including the communities represented through MIRA's Egyptian Chapter. The governance structure is being designed to maintain representation from throughout the combines association's geographic territory.

The goal is to gain the resources and efficiencies of a larger organization without losing local involvement or the connection to the communities we serve.

Could this give REALTORS® a stronger voice?

Advocacy will remain a strong priority in the areas we serve.

A combines association would represent a larger community of real estate professionals across Central and Southern Illinois, creating opportunities to bring more REALTORS® together around issues affecting housing, private property rights, economic development, workforce development and the communities our members serve. 

Who approves the merger?

Members. The merger cannot move forward without membership approval. Members will have opportunities to learn more, ask questions and provide feedback through Town Hall meetings in the CCAR, MIRA and Egyptian Chapter areas. Details are still being developed, and member input is strongly encouraged before a formal vote of CCAR and MIRA members take place.

We value you input and encourage you to submit your questions regarding the merger.

Submit a Merger Question

Register for the virtual townhall meeting here.