1. United Way Caregivers Coalition

2. Our Mission The mission of the Caregivers Coalition of Morris County, NJ is to promote knowledge of and action around caregiving issues to ensure all caregivers identify as such and have access to the resources, services, education, and support to sustain them in their role.

3. Our goals To strengthen services and resources to caregivers across the lifespan To improve access to information about caregiving, and about available and appropriate services To identify and respond to gaps in services to caregivers To advocate for policies and legislation to improve the quality of life for caregivers To provide caregiver educational programs and resource information to social service providers, health care providers, family caregivers, corporations and businesses, and the community

4. Caregivers, the “heart” of our Coalition Engaging caregivers in the process Strengthening services and resources for caregivers Direct service to caregivers

5. Engaging caregivers – Caregivers Advisory Panel Began with 5 caregivers; currently 410 members Chaired by a volunteer caregiver Connected via email, phone and snail mail Provide input as to needs; most projects are a result of caregiver requests Participant in and provide input on all projects Two dinner meetings a year Evaluate Coalition efforts twice a year

6. Strengthening services and resources for caregivers Caregiver Support Project –Caregiver Coordinator Advocacy –Caregiver recognition events with elected officials –Agenda for Action –Partnership with Drew University Political Science and Education students

7. Direct service to caregivers Pathways for Caregivers guide Lunch & Learn programs Conferences Resource Fairs Care Partner Program Bereavement Group Caregiver Café

8. Outcomes 99% of caregivers agree that since becoming involved with the Caregivers Coalition their awareness of services and resources has improved. 90% of caregivers agree that since becoming involved with the Caregivers Coalition their understanding of how to access services and resources has improved. 84% of caregivers agree that since becoming involved with the Caregivers Coalition their understanding of the importance of taking care of their own physical and mental health has improved.

9. Contact & web information Carol E. DeGraw, M.S.W., L.C.S.W. Manager, Community Impact United Way of Northern New Jersey PO Box 1948 Morristown, NJ 07962-1948 973-993-1160, x128 carol.degraw@unitedwaynnj.org www.LiveUnitedMorris.org – click on Health, then Caregivers Coalition

10. Thank you