Founded in 1958, the Brethren Homes and Hospital Association was a group of CEOs and representatives from Bethany Hospital and Brethren-affiliated retirement homes. Because these facilities carried out ministry to and for the church, leadership in BHHA believed that an official connection with the denominational structure of the Church of the Brethren was important. In 1984, BHHA merged with the Brethren Health and Welfare Association, which later became the Association of Brethren Caregivers.

The Fellowship of Brethren Homes was formed in 1996. The direction for the Fellowship of Brethren Homes comes primarily through a Council of CEOs from a portion of the 23 retirement centers.

Caring: A History of Brethren Homes was written by Mary Sue Rosenberger in 1989 and offers insight into the development of Brethren-affiliated retirement centers.