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Appendix H
Hidden Heroes
America’s Military Caregivers
Appendix H
Rajeev Ramchand, Terri Tanielian, Michael P. Fisher, Christine A. Vaughan, Thomas Trail, Caroline
Epley, Phoenix Voorhies, Michael Robbins, Eric Robinson, Bonnie Ghosh-Dastidar
RR-499-TEDF
Appendix H
In this appendix, we provide a brief description of the organizations included in the environmental scan. This
document is a supplement to the report, Hidden Heroes: America's Military Caregivers.1
Each entry provides brief details about the history, origin, and mission of the organization providing
caregiver support services. For more details about the inclusion criteria and methods used for this scan, please
see the referenced report. 1
Ramchand R, Tanielian T, Fisher MP, Vaughan CA, Trail TE, Epley C, Voorhies P, Robbins MW, Robinson E, Ghosh-­‐Dastidar B, Hidden Heroes: America’s Military Caregivers, RR-­‐499-­‐TEDF, 2014 (available at www.rand.org/military-­‐caregivers). 1
AARP
Feature Description Website http://www.aarp.org Managing office N/A Origination date 1958 History Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, a retired high school principal, founded AARP in 1958. AARP evolved from the National Retired Teachers Association, which Andrus had established in 1947 to promote her philosophy of productive aging, and to respond to a need of retired teachers for health insurance. Years later, Andrus realized the time had come to create a new organization open to all Americans. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: None Note: For its caregiving activities, AARP targets children caring for their aging parents. [Caregiver incidental] [Military incidental] No Specific injury/illness Geographic reach National or international Mission AARP’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for all, leading positive social change and delivering value to members through information, advocacy, and service. Goals AARP assists caregivers in recognizing that they indeed are caregivers, helps them to prepare for their caregiving role, and links them with resources for support. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Online Communities (Structured Social Support): AARP hosts online discussion boards where caregivers can connect with peers and exchange information (e.g., via question-­‐and-­‐answer posts). Mode of Delivery: Internet AARP Caregiving Guides (Structured Education/Training): AARP publishes three guides for family caregivers: •
•
•
Guide to Caregiving, which educates caregivers on various aspects of caregiving, from health, housing, and legal matters to ways to handle emotional transitions, where to find support, and how to care for themselves. Prepare to Care: A Planning Guide for Families, which assists families in preparing to care for their loved ones. Juggling Work and Caregiving, which provides caregivers with practical information about caring for a loved one while working. Mode of Delivery: Printed, Internet Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The AARP website offers information on a range of caregiving topics. Referral Service for Veteran: AARP has partnered with Genworth to provide a link (from the AARP website) to a care provider search tool. The website also has a section titled 12 Resources Every Caregiver Should Know. Referral Service for Caregiver: AARP runs a call center that assists caregivers in finding resources and support. Outreach activities AARP runs public service announcements, as well as television, radio, print, and Internet advertisements, that help caregivers to self-­‐identify and access the organization’s services and resources. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 2
Agingcare.com
Feature Description Website http://agingcare.com Managing office N/A Origination date 2007 History Richard Nix, the company’s president and founder, witnessed his mother and mother-­‐in-­‐law struggle with caring for their elderly parents. Recognizing the power of direct caregiver interaction, he formed AgingCare.com to provide a means for caregivers to relate to others who understand exactly what they are experiencing and form meaningful connections with each other. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Anyone caring for an elderly loved one Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The mission is to help families prepare for and navigate the care of an elderly loved one. Goals Agingcare.com aims to be a web destination for family caregivers, provide trustworthy information and practical answers, and deliver ongoing support through caregiving challenges. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Caregiver forum (Structured Social Support): Agingcare.com hosts a web-­‐based caregiver forum where caregivers ask questions of experts on a range of topics (e.g., Medicare, legal issues, financial planning). Web users can create an account with the website, then anonymously comment on articles or postings and follow the postings of others. Mode of Delivery: Internet Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Agingcare.com publishes a twice-­‐weekly newsletter on its website that covers a range of caregiving topics across the following categories: caregiver support, elder care, money and legal issues, and senior living. Caregivers can also search for various discussion topics within the website. Referral Service for Veteran: Agingcare.com maintains a Housing and Care search feature on their website that allows users to search for resources for themselves and their loved one. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities Users discover Agingcare.com through web searches and media articles. The newsletters, sent twice weekly through listserv, also serve as a means for directing users about the website. Tax Determination Status For-­‐profit 3
AGIS
Feature Description Website http://www.agis.com Managing office N/A Origination date 1998 History AGIS was inspired by the founder’s experiences with family caregiving. In 1998, AssistGuide was founded to help families find eldercare and disability information. In 2006, AssistGuide changed its name to AGIS and launched the AGIS website. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: None: Services available to any web user Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission AGIS seeks to help caregivers and their loved ones meet the challenges of aging. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Family Care Groups (Structured Social Support): The AGIS website enables caregivers to create Family Care Groups—free, personal, private web pages that help caregivers organize family and friends around caregiving needs. Mode of Delivery: Internet Expert Guidance (Other Support): The AGIS website includes an Expert Guidance section where caregivers can ask questions on topics of health, aging, or caregiving. AGIS forwards these questions to experts and then posts their answers on the website. AGIS Network (Other Support): AGIS’s sister company, AGIS Network, works with a range of businesses, government agencies, and insurance providers nationwide to educate them about topics such as long-­‐term care. AGIS Network also assists government agencies in establishing online Aging and Disability Resource Centers, which help users, such as family caregivers, to locate resources. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The AGIS website provides a range of information on caregiving and topics of interest to caregivers. It also includes numerous checklists pertaining to topics such as general caregiving, help for family caregivers, and legal and financial issues. Referral Service for Veteran: The AGIS website includes a Find Facilities and Services section that enables caregivers to search for resources for themselves and their loved ones. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities AGIS users locate the website largely through search engines and advertising. Tax Determination Status For-­‐profit 4
Air Force Aid Society
Feature Description Website http://www.afas.org Managing office N/A Origination date 1942 History The AFAS is the official charity of the United States Air Force. The roots of the Society go back to 1942 in response to General Henry ‘Hap’ Arnold's concern that members of his Army Air Forces faced unique hardships in meeting the challenges of World War II. He wanted a national organization which could provide emergency assistance to the wives and children of war victims and assure the availability of educational assistance to those families. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Active-­‐duty and retired Air Force members and their dependents; the dependents of deceased Air Force personnel who died on active duty or in retired status. Includes Guardsmen and Reservists on Title 10 orders for 15 or more days; a caregiver who is not a dependent but has power of attorney is also eligible to seek support directly for the eligible Airman [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission AFAS aims to help relieve financial distress of Air Force members and their families and to assist them in financing their higher education goals. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Emergency Assistance (Helping Hand): Assistance is available to Airmen and their eligible family members to meet immediate needs in an emergency situation. The Society provides interest free loans and grants based on the individual situation for needs such as: basic living expenses, emergency travel, vehicle expenses, funeral expenses, medical and dental expenses, child care, respite care, and moving expenses. Assistance is considered on a case-­‐by-­‐case basis. A majority of assistance is given in the form of an interest free loan. A limited number of grants are also available. For example, wounded Airmen are issued a $500 dollar grant upon medical evacuation. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance Outreach activities Wounded warriors and their families are typically made aware of the Air Force Aid Society through Airman and Family Readiness Centers and the Air Force Reserve Command. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 5
Air Force Wounded Warrior Program (AFW2)
Feature Description Website http://www.woundedwarrior.af.mil Managing office N/A Origination date 2005 History The Air Force Wounded Warrior Program launched in 2005 as the Palace HART (Helping Airmen Recover Together) program and was renamed in 2007. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Airmen with a combat or hostile-­‐related injury or illness requiring long-­‐term care or a Medical or Physical Evaluation Board to determine fitness for duty, and their families. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission AFW2 seeks to provide the best possible nonmedical care and support for wounded, ill, and injured Airmen and their families; facilitate a refined and simplified transition back to duty or to civilian life; and ensure recovering Airmen and their families are well-­‐equipped to manage the lifetime challenges incurred as a result of their injuries or illness. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Recovery Care Coordinators (RCCS) (Patient Advocacy): AFW2 offers RCCs for Airmen who serve as the wounded, ill, or injured Airman’s point of contact to help define and meet individual goals for recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration. Notably, RCCs assist Airmen in developing and maintaining a Comprehensive Recovery Plan. Family Liaison Officers (FLOs) (Patient Advocacy): AFW2 also facilitates assistance via FLOs, who serve as the commander’s personal representative to help the family in any and all matters needed or requested. FLOs link family members to an array of information and services, including transportation, lodging, and financial information. Travel Assistance (Helping Hand): AFW2 arranges for Invitational Travel Authorization (ITA) Orders, government-­‐funded orders that can authorize up to three individuals to travel to the bedside of an inpatient wounded, ill, or injured Airman. When on ITAs, travel to and from the hospital, lodging expenses, meals, and incidental expenses may be reimbursed by the government. Nonmedical Attendant (NMA) Assistance (Helping Hand): When an Airman is in an inpatient or outpatient status and a doctor determines it is necessary to have someone assist with the activities of daily living, an individual, designated by the Airman, may be issued NMA orders. Normally, one person is authorized to travel as an NMA. In extenuating circumstances, more than one NMA may be authorized. NMAs are similar to ITAs, with the same travel entitlements authorized; per diem and lodging costs at the current location rate. Initial NMAs are authorized for up to 180 days. Special Compensation for Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (SCAADL) (Financial Stipend): SCAADL is the Department of Defense’s (DoD’s) special monthly compensation for service members who incur a permanent catastrophic injury or illness. SCAADL helps offset the loss of income by a primary caregiver who provides nonmedical care, support, and assistance for the service member. SCAADL is issued and dispersed to Airmen through the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program. 6
Air Force Wounded Warrior Program (AFW2)
Feature Description Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: AFW2 assists wounded, ill, or injured Airmen and their families in identifying a wide range of services. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Tax Determination Status Government: DoD/Air Force 7
Air Warrior Courage Foundation (AWCF)
Feature Description Website http://www.airwarriorcourage.org/ Origination date 1998 History Air Warrior Courage Foundation (AWCF) was formed in 1998 by members of the Red River Valley Fighter Pilots Association (River Rats) to help with financial problems of warriors (primarily military aviators, Wounded Warriors, and their families) of an emergency nature or that fall beyond government support. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Service members (active-­‐duty, retired and Guard/Reserve) from all services and their family members [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The Air Warrior Courage Foundation was formed by military aviators to ‘care for our own.’ The program works closely with the Red River Valley Fighter Pilots Association to do that. It focuses on active-­‐duty, Guard, reserve, and retired personnel and their families needing financial assistance for medical, educational, and other extraordinary expenses not covered by other military, veterans’, or charitable institutions. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Wounded Warrior Emergency Support Fund (Helping Hand): Provides emergency grants for a wide range of financial problems that Wounded Warrior families encounter, including pay interruptions during permanent changes of station, car repairs, security deposits for apartment or house rentals, emergency travel, funeral expenses, etc. Lodging needs (Helping Hand): Pay lodging expenses for family members /caregivers while wounded warriors undergo recovery/rehab. Christmas Hope Program (Helping Hand): Grants for families of soldiers at San Antonio Military Medical Center who have limited financial resources. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance (typically send funds directly to mortgage company, electric company, doctor’s office, etc.) Nonstandard Clinical Care Emergency Medical Care (Health Care): Financial assistance for nonmilitary dependent caregivers and family members to obtain medical and dental care. Outreach activities Requests for assistance come through social or medical advocates from Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals, Wounded Warrior programs, the Soldier Family Assistance Center, and other DoD and VA sources. These sources vet the individual requests before presenting them to AWCF. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 8
American Bar Association (ABA) Military Pro Bono Project and Veterans Claims and Assistance Network
Feature Description Website http://www.americanbar.org/groups/legal_assistance_military_personnel.html Origination date Partnership with ABA, Public Counsel and the Military Officers Association of America: 2013 Military Pro Bono Project: 2008 History The partnership among the ABA, the Center for Veterans Advancement at Public Counsel, and the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) was launched in 2013. The role of the Legal Assistance to Military Personnel (LAMP) Committee of the ABA in this partnership is still evolving; thus far they have worked closely with MOAA to provide legal resources specifically targeting caregivers. The LAMP Committee will soon launch a pilot program in partnership with VA to connect veterans awaiting adjudication of a disability claim with pro bono lawyers who will assist the veteran in completing a fully developed claim. The LAMP Committee runs the ABA Military Pro Bono Project, which improves access to pro bono civil legal assistance for active-­‐duty military personnel and their family members. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Specific to each program. VA partnership: Military veterans with an unrepresented disability claim and are preselected by VA. Military Pro Bono Project: Active-­‐duty military and their families with an eligible case and must meet income criteria of an E-­‐6 paygrade or below. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The mission of the American Bar Association Standing Committee on Legal Assistance for Military Personnel is to: •
•
•
Foster the continued growth of the military legal assistance programs Promote the delivery of legal services to military personnel and their family members and to persons accompanying the armed forces outside the United States, on their personal legal affairs Maintain close liaison with the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security (with respect to the U.S. Coast Guard), the military services, bar associations, and appropriate committees of the Association to enhance the scope, quality, and delivery of free or affordable legal services to eligible legal assistance clients. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Legal Assistance (Helping Hand): ABA Veterans and Claims Assistance Network. Connects unrepresented veterans who have pending VA disability claims with pro bono lawyers who will provide assistance in submitting the claim for expedited adjudication. Two pilot programs will be launched at regional office service areas, one in Chicago and one in St. Petersburg, FL. ABA Military Pro Bono Project (Helping Hand): Connects active-­‐duty military personnel and their families with civilian attorneys who provide free representation for civil legal issues beyond the scope of services provided by military legal assistance offices. Mode of Delivery: Legal assistance 9
American Bar Association (ABA) Military Pro Bono Project and Veterans Claims and Assistance Network
Feature Description Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Through the partnership with MOAA, the LAMP Committee created content for an online library of legal resources that specifically targets the unique informational needs of what is estimated to be between 275,000 and more than 1.1 million Americans providing caregiving services to family members who were injured in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. This content will populate a new Wounded Veteran Caregiver section on the ABA Home Front website, as well as appearing on MOAA’s Tips for Lifelong Caregiving site. Outreach activities ABA Veterans and Claims Assistance Network: The VA will identify unrepresented claimants who have been in their claims system for 125 days or more, and will send letters to these individuals letting them know the ABA can connect them with free legal assistance in adjudicating their claim. ABA Military Pro Bono Project: The Project accepts case referrals from military legal assistance attorneys (i.e., JAG attorneys) and connects service members with pro bono attorneys. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 10
American Legion Auxiliary
Description Feature Website http://www.legion-­‐aux.org/ Origination date 1919 History The vision of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion while becoming the premier service organization and foundation of every community providing support for veterans, military, and their families by shaping a positive future in an atmosphere of fellowship, patriotism, peace and security. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Veterans and active-­‐duty military Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission The mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. The organization advocates for veterans; educates citizens; mentors youth; and promotes patriotism, good citizenship, peace, and security. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] The Auxiliary seeks to provide a structured volunteer program under the management of VA-­‐compensated employees in cooperation with community resources to serve America’s veterans and their families with dignity and compassion. Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service supports strategic goals of VA and Veterans Health Administration by recruiting, supporting, and retaining a knowledgeable, diverse, and engaged supplemental workforce of volunteers to assist management in the delivery of VA health care by improving access to care, assisting with long-­‐term care, improving patient satisfaction, and much more. Goals Organizational goals: •
•
•
•
•
•
Services for caregivers To support and advocate for veterans, active military, and their families To support the initiatives and programs of The American Legion To foster patriotism and responsible citizenship To award scholarships and promote quality education and literacy To provide educational and leadership opportunities that uphold the ideals of freedom and democracy, and encourage good citizenship and patriotism in government To increase capacity to deliver on the mission by providing meaningful volunteer opportunities within communities Common Caregiving Services (Structured Social Support): The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors a range of social events such as holiday parties and warm send-­‐off and welcome-­‐home events for troops and their families. Many local American Legion Auxiliary offices provide “family strength programs” that include trainings on coping with deployment and reconnecting with family members. The programs also provide an opportunity for families to meet and support each other. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Outreach activities At reserve units, VA-­‐related facilities or facilities that serve a large number of veterans, the Auxiliary tries to identify who could benefit from regularly scheduled or occasional volunteers, special programming, or assistance; gets to know the commanders, directors, or spouses; and keeps a record of them in a resource file. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 11
American Legion Family Support Network
Feature Description Website http://www.legion.org/familysupport Managing office N/A Origination date 1990 History The Family Support Network developed during the early days of Operation Desert Shield, and later Operation Desert Storm and the Persian Gulf War. The American Legion has a nationwide toll-­‐free telephone number, 800-­‐
504-­‐4098, for service members and their families to call for assistance. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Active-­‐duty service members and their families Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission The Family Support Network seeks to provide immediate assistance to service personnel and families whose lives have been directly affected by Operation Iraqi Freedom and America's war on terror. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Tax Determination Status Nonprofit [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] (Helping Hand): The American Legion Family Support Network facilitates assistance with a variety of everyday chores and tasks. These may include grocery shopping, child care, lawn mowing, car repairs, and other routine household assistance. Service members and their family members call a nationwide toll-­‐free telephone number for assistance. Calls are referred to The American Legion department, or state in which the call originated. Departments relay the collected information to a local American Legion post. The local post then contacts the service member or family to see how assistance can be provided locally. 12
American Red Cross
Feature Description Website http://www.redcross.org Managing office N/A Origination date 1881 History For more than 130 years, the American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces has provided critical assistance and resources to service members and their families. These services are provided as part of the organization’s congressional charter. The American Red Cross Family Caregiving Course was formed under guidance from a scientific advisory council in 2003 (and updated in 2004). Reconnection Workshops began in 2011. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Family Caregiver Course: open to individuals who care for a sick or elderly loved one Reconnection Workshops: Open to military service members (including Reserve, National Guard, and active duty), veterans, and their families (including spouses, parents, siblings and significant others) [Caregiver incidental] [Military incidental] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international: The Red Cross has more than 500 chapters, a presence on more than 50 military installations across the world, and in most VA and military hospitals. Mission The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. Goals Provide support for members of the military and their families Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Family Caregiving Course (Structured Education/Training): The American Red Cross offers a Family Caregiving Course through which caregivers gain practical skills and coping strategies, enabling them to provide at-­‐home care for sick or elderly loved ones. Caregivers can select from a series of self-­‐contained modules and focus on topics most relevant to their family’s needs. Course modules include: •
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
General Caregiving Skills Home Safety Assisting with Personal Care Healthy Eating Positioning and Helping Your Loved One Move Caring for a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease or Dementia Caring for a Loved One with HIV/AIDS Caring for the Caregiver Legal and Financial Issues Planned program updates include an injured service member version/component. Reconnection Workshops (Structured Education/Training): The American Red Cross offers and facilitates Reconnection Workshops, which focus on supporting service members and their families with post-­‐
deployment transition. The Reconnection Workshops entail individual and small-­‐group discussions that enhance the likelihood of positive reconnections among family members and the successful re-­‐engagement of the service member in civilian life. Current workshop topic areas include: managing stress, supporting children, building communication, working through anger, and recognizing psychological health issues; e.g., posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or traumatic brain injury (TBI). Potential updates include a workshop devoted to the psychological health of caregivers. 13
American Red Cross
Feature Description Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group), Printed, (Preliminary consideration is also being made for increased technology-­‐based formats, such as an app) (Other): Other American Red Cross services that may be of interest to caregivers include employment training, CPR training, and first aid training. These are offered at chapters and U.S. military installations across the world. The Red Cross also has many other military support services, including the 24/7 Military Emergency Communications Center and Services. Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: The American Red Cross serves as a referral and information source for family caregivers and the service members or veterans for whom they care. The Red Cross maintains lists of national and local resources and can be contacted via phone, email, social media, or in person at local Red Cross chapter and military installation locations. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities American Red Cross activities and events are promoted by local Red Cross chapters, via the American Red Cross website, through social media, and through earned media (e.g., newspaper articles). Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 14
American Veterans with Brain Injuries (AVBI)
Feature Description Website http://www.avbi.org Managing office N/A Origination date 2004 History AVBI organized as a grassroots effort aiming to connect families of individuals who have brain injuries. In 2006, AVBI developed a website with a peer support chat room, and in 2009, it incorporated as a not-­‐for-­‐
profit organization to expand programs and services to veterans. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Anyone who has lived with or experienced the difficulties that arise from having a loved one suffering a brain injury [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness Brain injuries Geographic reach National or international Mission AVBI is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to serve and support veterans who have suffered a brain injury while in service to the U.S. Armed Forces, and the family members/caregivers of such. Goals AVBI seeks to: •
•
•
Services for caregivers Promote and expand the independence, self respect, and self esteem of veterans who have suffered brain injuries Improve the quality of life of veterans who have suffered brain injuries Connect veterans who have suffered brain injuries and their families with needed resources. Common Caregiving Services Online support groups (Structured Social Support): One group each week is dedicated specifically to family members or caregivers, another is open to veterans as well. Participants can enter chatrooms anonymously to ask questions and express frustrations. A monitor (a program volunteer) attends each session to introduce new participants and facilitate ongoing discussion. The format is unstructured and determined by participants’ needs. Participants also have the ability to talk one-­‐on-­‐one with the monitor or other participants if desired. In-­‐person peer support (Structured Social Support): Once-­‐a-­‐week peer support groups for family members of veterans with brain injuries are provided at two locations: VA Tampa Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Mode of Delivery: Internet, Face to face (group) Medical alert tags and identity cards (Other): AVBI distributes a brain injury-­‐specific medical alert tag and identity card to veterans with brain injuries. These materials serve two primary functions: to diffuse problematic situations wherein the veteran may encounter difficulty communicating or interacting, and to provide family members and caregivers with peace of mind, knowing they will be contacted should an emergency situation occur. The medical alert tag lists information about the veteran’s injuries and the emergency contact information for the veteran’s family member or caregiver. The identity card states that the veteran has a TBI, and can be presented to others when speech or functioning is impaired. The card also includes other information about steps one can take to understand and accommodate the veteran given their brain injury. 15
American Veterans with Brain Injuries (AVBI)
Feature Description Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: An online forum is offered where veterans with brain injuries and their family members can find answers to their questions. Referral Service for Veteran: AVBI provides links to resources for veterans and their family members or caregivers. Resources are listed on the website. Participants may also voice a need for these services (and thus be referred) via the medical alert tag and identification card application process, in online chats, via phone calls, and on Facebook. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities AVBI reaches its target audiences via word-­‐of-­‐mouth referrals, Facebook, the visibility of the medical alert tags and identity cards, and referrals from other veterans’ organizations. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 16
Armed Forces Foundation
Feature Description Website http://www.armedforcesfoundation.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2001 History The Foundation was formed under a DoD initiative, America Supports You, to provide a range of support to military families. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Service members on active duty or within 18 months of release from active duty and their families Civilians are eligible to participate in select activities, such as Operation Caring Classroom. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The Armed Forces Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to supporting and advocating for active-­‐duty military personnel, National Guardsmen, Reservists, military families, and veterans. Goals Assist family members with the financial strains of making ends meet. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Family Financial Assistance (Helping Hand): The Foundation provides financial assistance to help with expenses such as •
•
•
•
•
•
Utility bills Rent or mortgage payments (for civilian housing) Car payments Child care during illness, surgery, or recovery Travel expenses during treatment and recovery Car insurance payments Families must apply for the funds and demonstrate financial need to be eligible. Grants are given one time, and amounts vary based on need. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance Navy Lodge Support (Other): The Foundation provides support to the Navy Lodge at the National Naval Medical Center to offset expenses for families visiting a loved one. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The Foundation engages in outreach efforts to raise awareness of PTSD and TBI. For example, the Foundation runs a campaign, Help Save Our Troops, to raise awareness of these issues and to reduce military suicides. Referral Service for Veteran: The Foundation maintains a resource page on its website that includes resources for service members and veterans with PTSD and TBI, as well as their families. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities Participants discover the Foundation through its website, resource directories such as Military One Source, and referrals from VA and other organizations. 17
Armed Forces Foundation
Feature Description Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 18
Armed Forces Reserve Family Assistance Fund (AFRFAF)
Feature Description Website http://www.afrfaf.org Managing office N/A Origination date 2003 History The Armed Forces Reserve Family Assistance Fund has supported families of deployed Reservists who face short-­‐term financial needs and other emergencies. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Reservists and families Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission AFRFAF uses its fundraising proceeds to help families of Reservists called up to active duty to survive the small, everyday emergencies occasioned by the absence of a spouse, parent, or other family member. AFRFAF’s mission is to make money or manpower available to active-­‐duty Reserve families to fix boilers, patch leaky roofs, drive a mom to a doctor’s appointment, or any one of a thousand little things the family would normally rely on the deployed soldier to do, or provide for. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] (Helping Hand): AFRFAF can help with a demonstrated need that can be handled by a referral to a craftsman or professional willing to provide a needed service, or through a direct grant of funds. Assistance is provided for a range of needs, such as household repairs or unpaid bills. AFRFAF helps with emergencies, but does not provide long-­‐term financial assistance or income supplementation. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance Outreach activities N/A Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 19
Armed Services YMCA
Program name Description Website http://www.asymca.org Managing office N/A Origination date 1861 History The beginning of YMCA service in the military setting usually is associated with the year 1861, when 5,000 dedicated YMCA volunteers took to the battlefields of the Civil War alongside America’s uniformed young men. Today, the ASYMCA continues to be a national member association of the YMCA of the USA exclusively focused on military families. The ASYMCA operates more than 150 program centers nationwide. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Military service members and their families, with a particular focus on junior-­‐enlisted service members. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission ASYMCA seeks to make military life easier. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Food and General Assistance (Helping Hand): ASYMCA locations typically offer food distribution, and the assistance varies by location. For example, some locations host activities and events where food is provided. Other locations offer commissary gift cards, gas cards, or other types of financial assistance. Operation Ride Home (Helping Hand): ASYMCA partners with the Jack Daniel’s Distillery to provide payment for air travel or gas for service members visiting their family members (or vice versa) at holiday time. Operation Holiday Joy (Helping Hand): ASYMCA partners with the readers of Woman’s Day Magazine to raise funds to support military families during the holidays. ASYMCA purchases and distributes more than 1600 pallets of toys (over 320,000 toys) as well as deliver over 25,000 baskets of food at Thanksgiving and Christmas to junior enlisted families in need. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance Operation Outdoors (Structured Social Support and Structured Wellness Activities): ASYMCA partners with the Newman’s Own Foundation, offers junior enlisted families the chance to participate in family, youth, and teen camps year-­‐round at their 33 branches, and encourages healthy living as part of their core mission of making military life easier. Warrior Weekend Camps (Structured Social Support and Structured Wellness Activities): ASYMCA, with the support of USO Warrior and Family Care, offers no-­‐cost Warrior Weekend Camps to enable injured service members and wounded families to take time away from their daily stresses to reconnect as a family unit. Camps are offered to wounded service members and their families stationed at ASYMCAs Hampton Roads, VA; Fort Riley, KS; and Fort Sill, OK. Warrior Weekend Camps include highly trained counselors who will guide the participating wounded families through various activities such as swimming, crafts, horses, archery, rifles, nature hikes, canoeing, campfires, and beach exploration. Yoga (Structured Wellness Activities): ASYMCA offers yoga for families. Spa Days (Structured Wellness Activities): ASYMCA offers spa days for military spouses. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) 20
Armed Services YMCA
Program name Description Nonstandard Clinical Care (Mental Health Care): The San Diego ASYMCA coordinates and pays for mental health counseling for service members and their family members or caregivers. The organization receives referrals from Balboa Hospital and relies on a network of more than 200 licensed counselors in the region to provide care. Outreach activities ASYMCA relies on word of mouth and their website to conduct outreach. For mental health services at the San Diego location, ASYMCA relies on referrals from Balboa Hospital. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 21
Army Emergency Relief (AER)
Feature Description Website http://www.aerhq.org Origination date 1942 History AER was incorporated as a private nonprofit organization in 1942. Original funding for the organization came from the Red Cross and fundraising efforts by Irving Berlin. The original purpose of the organization was to provide funds for soldiers who needed to travel home during times of emergency. The purpose of the organization expanded as the Army changed; in 1976, it merged with the Army Relief Society (ARS). In addition to its mission to provide emergency financial assistance to soldiers, AER assumed the ARS mission of providing financial assistance to widows (and widowers) and orphans of deceased regular Army soldiers. Although AER is a private nonprofit organization, its sole mission is to help soldiers and eligible family members experiencing financial emergencies. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Soldiers on extended active duty and their dependents; Army reservists and National Guard on Title 10 orders on active duty for more than 30 consecutive days and their family members; soldiers retired from active duty because of longevity or physical disability or retired upon age 60; widows and orphans of soldiers who died while on active duty or after retirement upon age 60. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The primary mission of Army Emergency Relief is to provide financial assistance to soldiers, active and retired, and their families. Goals Helping the Army take care of its own Helping to enhance the morale and welfare of soldiers and their families Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Helping Hand): AER provides financial assistance to soldiers and their eligible family members who are faced with a valid financial emergency, often involving basic essentials of everyday living. AER also provides financial assistance to widows and orphans of deceased soldiers. This financial assistance usually occurs at the time of, or shortly after, death of the soldier. The financial assistance usually takes the form of an interest-­‐free loan. If repayment of the loan will cause extreme financial hardship, AER will issue a grant or a combination grant/loan. The most common reasons for financial assistance are: mortgages and rent, auto repair, travel expenses, utilities, funeral expenses, food, non-­‐receipt of pay, relocation, dependent dental, medical, repair of heating/cooling, replacement car, loss of funds, repair of appliance, car seats/cranial helmets. AER officers are located on all installations and handle requests on a case-­‐by-­‐case basis. AER has reciprocal agreements with other Service Aid societies and the American Red Cross. A soldier on leave or a family member at home while the spouse is deployed can go to a sister aid society or call the American Red Cross Call Center at 1-­‐877-­‐272-­‐7337 and they can process requests for AER. Mode of Delivery: Financial Assistance 22
Army Emergency Relief (AER)
Feature Description Outreach activities Every solider should be informed of AER by their chain of command. In addition, staff from the AER headquarters office visit installations to provide information on services and eligibility. AER sends a retiree mailing; every retiree who receives a check from Defense Finance and Accounting Service receives a letter that they are eligible for AER assistance. AER has also started to use social media; in 2013, staff made seven or eight trips to mobilizing reserve units to tell them about the program. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit: The Army provides logistics (office space, electricity, etc.) 23
Army Wounded Warrior Program (AW2)
Feature Description Website http://wtc.army.mil/aw2/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2004 History AW2 is the official U.S. Army program that assists and advocates for severely wounded, ill, or injured soldiers, veterans, and their families, wherever they are located, regardless of military status. On April 30, 2004, the U.S. Army introduced the Disabled Soldier Support System in response to the growing number of soldiers wounded in operations in the Iraq War and the War in Afghanistan. In November 2005, the name was changed to the Army Wounded Warrior Program to more clearly identify the population served by the program. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Soldiers must suffer from wounds, illness, or injuries incurred in the line of duty after September 10, 2001 AND receive or expect to receive at least a 30-­‐percent rating from the Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) for specific conditions (listed in next section) OR receive a combined 50-­‐percent IDES If soldiers have not received a combined 50-­‐percent IDES rating for any other combat/combat-­‐related condition, the solider must have a 30-­‐percent rating from IDES for one of the conditions listed below: •
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
PTSD Severe TBI Severe loss of vision/blindness Severe hearing loss/deafness Fatal / incurable disease with limited life expectancy Loss of limb Spinal cord injury Permanent disfigurement Severe burns Severe paralysis Receive a 30-­‐percent rating or greater for one Veterans Affairs Scheduled Rating Decision as rated by the Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) in any other Special Category (SPECAT)/ Enabling Care (EC) or combat/combat-­‐related condition; S rating for any other combat/combat-­‐related condition. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission AW2 assists severely wounded soldiers and families from injury throughout recovery for as long as they need help. This system of support and advocacy guides soldiers from evacuation through treatment and rehabilitation until they return to duty or leave the military. AW2 also supports their families and caregivers, who have their own needs. Goals AW2 strives to foster the soldier's independence. 24
Army Wounded Warrior Program (AW2)
Feature Description Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Patient Advocacy): Upon enrollment in AW2, each AW2 soldier is assigned an AW2 advocate. Advocates are located at military treatment facilities, most Army installations, and VA facilities, and work with soldiers through each stage of the Wounded Warrior Lifecycle, fostering the soldier's independence for the next stage of his/her life. They support wounded warriors with a wide range of issues and resources, including: benefit information, career guidance, Continue on Active Duty/Continue on Active Reserve support, education opportunities, financial audits, coordination with government agencies, local resources, and Medical Evaluation Board and Physical Evaluation Board guidance. Each AW2 soldier moves through the six-­‐phase Lifecycle of Care. The Army uses this cycle to anticipate what wounded warriors and their families will need during each phase. The phases of the Wounded Warrior Lifecycle include: Evacuation and Notification: Soldiers eligible for AW2 are assigned an AW2 Advocate, who initiates contact with the soldier and family, establishes a personal connection with the soldier and family, and closely monitors their progress. • Treatment: While the soldier is receiving medical care, the advocate identifies individual soldier and family issues and actively manages them while preparing the soldier and family for the next phases. • Rehabilitation: When a soldier is in rehabilitation care and reaches a point where optimal medical benefit is achieved, the advocate coordinates with the Warrior Transition Unit interdisciplinary team to help the soldier and family develop a plan of action for continuance of Army service or transition into the civilian community. • Evaluation: The soldier moves through the Army Physical Disability Evaluation System. The advocate actively monitors the evaluation process, explains options, and assists the soldier and family with their Comprehensive Transition Plan goals. • Transition: The advocate supports the soldier in executing the Comprehensive Transition Plan. • Management and Support: The advocate continues to proactively support the soldier or veteran and the family by assisting with any new issues they may face. In this stage, the advocate helps foster their independence and transition to the next phase of their lives. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group and individual), Phone •
(Helping Hand): Travel Assistance: AW2 arranges for ITA orders and NMA assistance. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance (Financial Stipend): SCAADL is issued and dispersed to Soldiers through AW2. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: AW2 assists wounded, ill, or injured soldiers and their families in identifying a wide range of services. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities N/A Tax Determination Status Government: DoD/Army 25
Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Family Readiness Directorate
Feature Description Website http://www.ausa.org/Pages/default.aspx Origination date 1999 History AUSA has sought to support national security while advancing the interests of America's soldiers since 1950. The Family Readiness Directorate was founded more recently, in 1999 by Sylvia Kidd. As the spouse of Army Sergeant Major Richard Kidd, Sylvia saw the need for greater education and advocacy for military families and started the program to fill that gap in services. AUSA’s Family Readiness Directorate has military family forums each October. Since the program’s inception, the forums have increased in size and number. In addition, they are streamed live so people can connect virtually. In 2012, the annual meeting focused on caregivers for wounded warriors and families of the fallen. Also in 2012, the AUSA Family Readiness Directorate decided to make caregiver services a niche area for AUSA services, resources, and information. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Anyone who wants to support the U.S. Army Specific injury/illness No: Serves a range of family needs Geographic reach National or International: 125 worldwide chapters that offer community support for the U.S. Army, helping educate local communities about the Army and U.S. national defense. Chapters are involved in a variety of support activities and programs. Mission AUSA's Family Readiness Directorate is dedicated to providing Army families the assistance they need to help them manage the challenges of military life. Through four pillars of support, Education, Information, Advocacy, and Outreach, AUSA Family Readiness provides a platform from which Army families can voice their issues and concerns. Goals The Family Readiness Directorate has focused on the following goals: [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] •
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Traveling to installations around the world to make presentations; host focus groups; and receive briefings on housing, TRICARE, family readiness programs, Army Community Service programs, and children's education issues Gathering information from Army families to use in AUSA legislative and advocacy efforts Staying abreast of relevant federal legislation Working with military spouses to identify resources and Army family networks; attend general officer steering committee meetings every six months; attend briefings in Washington Representing AUSA on various Department of the Army and DoD councils and task forces, such as the Army's Well-­‐Being Consortium, the Youth Education Advisory Working Group, the AAFES and DeCA Advisory Councils, the In-­‐State Tuition Working Group, and the Spouse Employment Summit Supporting the Army Family Action Plan, as well as numerous family readiness activities, including active-­‐duty, Reserve and National Guard family training events Administering the annual AUSA Volunteer Family of the Year Award, which recognizes the importance of families and volunteers to the success of the Army mission Working with AUSA chapters to support Army family programs at local installations Hosting Military Family Forums dealing with Army well-­‐being and family support issues at the AUSA Annual Meeting. 26
Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Family Readiness Directorate
Feature Description Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Structured Education/Training): AUSA offers structured training through forums at their annual conferences on military families. For example, AUSA will host a forum on self-­‐care at the 2014 Annual Meeting. The forum will train military families on techniques for caring for one’s self and family. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group), Printed, Internet Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: AUSA’s Family Readiness Directorate webpage offers materials, resources, and a reading list for military families and caregivers. AUSA also offers information on employment through their online jobs list. AUSA partners with the Military Spouse Employment Partnership, which offers direct employment services for military families and caregivers. Referral Service for Caregiver: AUSA’s Family Readiness Directorate refers caregivers to other programs that offer specialized caregiver services. Outreach activities AUSA Family Readiness Directorate has a presence at booths and events both nationally and internationally as part of AUSA chapter activities. In addition, AUSA’s Family Readiness Directorate is creating a military spouse advisory council, which will assist in raising program awareness. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 27
Blue Star Families (BSF)
Feature Description Website http://www.BlueStarFam.org Origination date 2008 History Since the program’s inception by a group of military spouses aiming to support and empower military families, BSF has expanded its membership to more than 26,000 as of 2011 and started 70 chapters on military bases and National Guard sites around the country. BSF has also established itself as a cornerstone for military family–filtered feedback through its design and implementation of its comprehensive Military Families Lifestyle Survey, which the program has conducted on an annual basis since 2009. The first survey was small, but it has expanded each year. BSF has found that people want to be connected to their community. Since military families move often, the Internet has become a huge part of the military community and BSF tries to create a forum for families on Facebook and via email. BSF has also found that caregiver issues among military families have recently become a theme. Other identified themes include spouse employment and education issues, mental health, and wellness. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Military families. Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The mission of BSF is to support, empower, and connect military families. Goals Objectives: [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] •
•
•
Services for caregivers Support military families of all branches, ranks, and backgrounds through the unique challenges of military service Connect with military families through local chapters and an online community (The organization connects military families locally and internationally. BSF also conducts civilian community outreach to extend the military family network.) Empower military families by connecting them with resources that can improve their lives. Common Caregiving Services Caregivers Empowering Caregivers (CEC) (Structured Education/Training): The CEC program works in tandem with the Everyone Serves handbook to provide resources, support, and tools for caregivers. The CEC program specifically focuses on adjusting to life as a caregiver, and includes information on self-­‐care, setting boundaries, and a range of other issues. The CEC program also includes Caregiver Support Workshops at several locations around the country. These workshops are hosted by qualified caregiving experts and BSF staff members. The workshops provide training on varying facets of caregiving, the differences between injury and illness, and care coordination. Mode of Delivery: Internet Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: BSF has developed a private online tool for caregivers to share or ask questions for further empowerment. BSF also has a monthly column in Military Spouse Magazine, which has a global circulation of more than 60,000. Referral Service for Caregiver: BSF refers caregivers to a number of local, regional, and national organizations, including the VA. 28
Blue Star Families (BSF)
Feature Description Outreach activities BSF reaches out to all branches, the National Guard, and reserves, and regularly meets with DoD and VA to let them know about services and research. BSF tries to conduct comprehensive outreach efforts to reach military families in all aspects of life. BSF also tries to connect with universities and to use the press and social media to get the word out. BSF has a national and local presence. On the national level, BSF participates in conferences and interacts regularly with other national stakeholders in the military family and caregiver community. On the local level, chapters have tables at events and conduct grassroots outreach. BSF works closely with approximately 20 partner organizations on the survey and various projects. The partner organizations disseminate the link to the survey, which greatly helps BSF achieve a large survey sample. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 29
Boulder Crest Retreat
Feature Description Website http://www.bouldercrestretreat.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2012 History N/A Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Boulder Crest Retreat’s mission is to provide a free, first-­‐class rural retreat for America’s seriously wounded warriors and their families to reconnect, recreate, recover and reintegrate. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] Retreats (Structured Social Support): Boulder Crest Retreats for wounded veterans and their families offer respite, reconnection, and recovery in a natural, rural environment. The retreats use healing activities recognized as effective models for improving physical, emotional, financial, and spiritual strength and resilience. Retreats (Structured Wellness Activities): Boulder Crest Retreat is a rural sanctuary where military warriors with combat-­‐related injuries can bring their families and enjoy nonclinical, recreational, therapeutic activities aimed at assisting with their physical, mental, financial, and spiritual recovery. Boulder Crest Retreat recognizes both visible and invisible injuries. It serves wounded military personnel, their caregivers, and family, as well as Gold Star Family members. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 30
Brain Injury Alliance (BIA) and BIA of Colorado
Feature Description Website http://biacolorado.org/ Origination date 1980s History Many state BIA affiliates started as National Head Injury Foundation organizations. The National Head Injury Foundation eventually turned into the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA), which required fees from all affiliated state programs. State BIA programs broke off from BIAA because it did not want to pay BIAA’s membership fee. The states that broke off from BIAA formed the United States Brain Injury Alliance (USBIA), which has 21 state affiliates. The BIA of Colorado, which serves as our example of a state BIA program, started as a state support group for head injuries. Target population(s) Eligibility criteria: Individuals with brain injuries and cognitive disabilities, and their families. Specific injury/illness Brain injuries and cognitive disabilities Geographic reach [National] Local branches/offices/events: Mission The mission of USBIA is to engage the community in preventing brain injury and improving lives. The mission of BIA of Colorado is to improve the quality of life for people with brain injuries by connecting survivors with resources to help navigate the path of rehabilitation. Goals USBIA has three main goals: [Caregiver incidental] [Military incidental] •
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Build on the strengths, experience, passion, and knowledge of its members. USBIA’s members become part of a team of state-­‐based, nonprofit organizations that work to help individuals with brain injuries. USBIA facilitates communication among members through regular virtual and face-­‐to-­‐face meetings, trainings, and discussions, inter-­‐organizational collaboration, mentoring, and online content. Collaborate with other national organizations to assist individuals with brain injuries. Offer information about brain injuries and services to the public. BIA of Colorado has two main goals: •
•
Services for caregivers Connect individuals in Colorado who have brain injuries with services; offer information and referral services. Support caregivers for injured individuals in Colorado; offer information and referral services. Common Caregiving Services (Structured Social Support): State BIA programs offer structured social support through a number of different mechanisms. BIA of Colorado provides information about a bimonthly peer support group for military caregivers in Colorado Springs. BIA of Colorado also provides information about support groups for brain injury survivors and family members in various parts of Colorado, including Durango, Glenwood Springs, Greeley, Brush, Fort Collins, and the Spalding Rehabilitation Center. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) (Structured Education/Training): USBIA is developing leadership training modules for volunteers and staff leaders of member Brain Injury Alliances, including a focus on self-­‐advocacy. The delivery of the trainings began in 2013. 31
Brain Injury Alliance (BIA) and BIA of Colorado
Feature Description State BIA programs also offer training through workshops. For instance, BIA of Colorado provides an annual training workshop for leaders of the statewide brain injury support groups. BIA of Colorado recently provided information about a webinar on PTSD and TBI specifically aimed at issues related to care for veterans. BIA of Colorado also offers information about upcoming webinars with topics such as rehabilitation and prevention. BIA offers information about workshops on relational issues for family members of those with brain injuries. For example, BIA recently provided information on a workshop that discussed intimacy after a brain injury. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group), Internet Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: USBIA offers information on brain injuries, cognitive disabilities, community resources, and coping skills on its website, at conferences, via webinars, and other community events. Referral Service for Veteran: USBIA refers many veterans to VA. Referral Service for Caregiver: USBIA refers military caregivers to several different local and national caregiver organizations. Outreach activities USBIA’s outreach is largely word of mouth. USBIA also disseminates information via social media and on its website. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 32
Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA)
Feature Description Website http://www.biausa.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 1980 History BIAA was founded by individuals who wanted to improve the quality of life for their family members and patients who had sustained brain injuries. It was founded as the National Head Injury Foundation, which later became BIAA. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Individuals with brain injuries and cognitive disabilities, and their families. Specific injury/illness Brain injuries and cognitive disabilities Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission The mission of BIAA is to advance brain injury prevention, research, treatment, and education, and to improve the quality of life for all people affected by brain injury. BIAA is dedicated to increasing access to quality health care and raising awareness and understanding of brain injury. With a network of state affiliates, local chapters and support groups, BIAA is the voice of brain injury. Goals BIAA’s guiding principles are to: [Caregiver incidental] [Military incidental] •
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Services for caregivers Value strong leadership Serve the entire field Act with integrity while functioning as a business. Common Caregiving Services (Structured Social Support): BIAA facilitates social support through a number of social events. For example, BIAA held the Bowling for Brain Injury event in five states (Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Nebraska and New York) between March and June 2013. The bowling events foster social and community support and are also fundraisers for brain injuries. BIAA also facilitates local support groups in each state. National brain injury events hosted by the organization also foster community support, including the TBI Portrait Project, which was an art exhibition in New York City honoring survivors of traumatic brain injury. (Structured Education/Training): BIAA also offers brain injury education workshops, conferences, and seminars for anyone interested in brain injury, individuals with brain injury, family caregivers and direct-­‐care workers, allied health professionals, business professionals, education professionals, legal professionals, researchers, and students. The trainings are both in person and online. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: BIAA offers brain injury information and resources for caregivers. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 33
Camaraderie Foundation
Feature Description Website http://www.camaraderiefoundation.com Managing office N/A Origination date N/A History Michael and Marnie Waldrop, the founders of the Camaraderie Foundation, found counseling to be vital in the reintegration of their marriage after deployment. While deployed in Afghanistan, Michael saw six of his fellow soldiers face divorce, and has observed a number of service members who could have benefited from professional and spiritual counseling but avoided seeking it out due to the stigma often attached. Many service members struggle psychologically with the effects of war and battlefield experiences. The Camaraderie Foundation believes that private counseling and spiritual community can alleviate the issue and encourage service members to seek help, without feeling judged or isolated for doing so. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Active-­‐duty military and their families Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach Local: Florida Mission Camaraderie Foundation’s mission is to provide healing for invisible wounds of war through counseling, emotional, and spiritual support for all branches of military service members, veterans, and their families. Goals Serve military families by building a strong community of support around them [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Provide financial assistance Promote counseling to these military families from the private sector to supplement and add to existing government programs. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services C.A.M. Peer to Peer Groups (Structured Social Support): These peer-­‐to-­‐peer discussion groups are designed to allow spouses to connect with other spouses while sharing challenges, learning from each other, and fostering friendships. Mentor Leadership Program (Structured Social Support): Transitioning home from the battlefield or to civilian life can be difficult, especially if trying to do it alone. This new 12-­‐month program pairs an OIF/OEF veteran or service member with two mentors to introduce them to networking events in Central Florida and offer guidance in the transition. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group), Internet C.A.M. Family Fun Days (Structured Wellness Activities): Military families are under significant emotional strain and often don’t have the opportunity to connect with peers. Through community partnerships, Camaraderie offers family-­‐friendly events that are free of charge to help couples reconnect, let kids be kids, and to just have fun. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Nonstandard Clinical Care Counseling Scholarships (Mental Health Care): The Camaraderie Foundation provides 100 percent financial support for private counseling services to qualifying military service members and their families to help combat the invisible wounds of war. As a supplement to what the military offers, these private sessions are conducted by licensed professionals and include anything from marital counseling to dealing with symptoms of PTSD. 34
Care.com
Feature Description Website http://www.care.com Managing office N/A Origination date 2006 History N/A Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: N/A Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Care.com seeks to provide a one-­‐stop-­‐shop for families to meet all their care needs and understands that one size doesn't fit all. The goal is to provide families with as many options as possible so everyone can find the care that best fits their unique needs. Goals Connect professional caregivers and those who need care Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Military Families Group (Structured Social Support): Care.com offers military family members an online community to share support and advice with other families serving their children while also serving their country. Senior Care Planning (Other): Care.com provides care planning teams of senior care experts who work one-­‐on-­‐
one to custom-­‐design a care plan of action that works for each member's needs. Accessible to any member family needing a deeper level of support, this team also works to meet the growing demands of Care.com’s corporate clients, helping their employees reduce stress, stay focused, and save time. Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: Care Provider Search: Families looking for care post job descriptions and/or search the extensive database of providers to find their perfect match, and care providers post their profiles highlighting their skills and expertise, while also searching jobs that have been posted. For families seeking other options, such as day care or tutoring centers, businesses in the care space are also accessible on the site. Tax Determination Status For-­‐profit 35
Caregiver Action Network (CAN)
Feature Description Website http://www.caregiveraction.org Managing office N/A Origination date 1993 (as the National Family Caregivers Association; name changed in 2013) History In 1991, CAN founders Suzanne Mintz and Cindy Fowler discovered similarities in their issues as caregivers: Suzanne’s for her husband with multiple sclerosis and Cindy’s for her mother with Parkinson’s. Together, they founded the National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) in 1993, with the original vision of providing caregivers with information and resources, and to let them know they were not alone. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Any family caregiver Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The mission of the Caregiver Action Network is to promote resourcefulness and respect for the more than 65 million family caregivers across the country. Goals Create resourceful caregivers [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Reduce caregiver stress Create respect for family caregivers Create capable caregivers. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Structured Social Support): CAN has a robust social media community. In addition to Facebook, the organization has an online forum where family caregivers support each other. Military caregivers have found this forum useful because it is anonymous, free to use, and real. It is user-­‐driven, but CAN volunteers act as guides to the forums by welcoming new users, suggesting threads and topics, and facilitating connections between individual caregivers. In addition to the online forum, CAN has a volunteer program consisting of current or former family caregivers. These volunteers provide support for family caregivers in similar situations. Caregivers are referred to volunteers based on various criteria (geographic location, similar experiences, roles, etc.). Mode of Delivery: Internet (Structured Education/Training): CAN offers educational programs in the following areas: •
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How to communicate with health care professionals Medication management from the caregiver perspective Staying healthy together (for caregiver and patient) Financial planning for caregiving (toolkit and webinar with specific military topics) Programs offered by CAN consist of webinars, resources, and on-­‐demand material to allow family caregivers to access and digest information in small portions on their own time. Alzheimer’s disease-­‐specific educational resources are also available through the organization’s Coping with Alzheimer’s webpage. CAN used to host live learning events but has since moved to on-­‐demand formats. CAN has also partnered with local organizations to do live events with caregivers from isolated communities. Mode of Delivery: Internet, Face to face (group) 36
Caregiver Action Network (CAN)
Feature Description (Other): CAN created a story project, which is a historical database where caregivers have uploaded their stories. Experiences are shared through writing. Caregiver stories can be searched by location, relationship, or disease. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: CAN provides information in the form of articles that are available online or by request. CAN also offers checklists for doctors’ visits and emergency visits to make those encounters more effective. The CAN website also contains the Plugged-­‐In Caregiving microsite to help family caregivers find the right category and solutions for technologies (e.g., medication management tools, apps, personal emergency response systems, and motion detectors). Referral Service for Caregiver: Referrals are made within the volunteer network. The CAN website also has a directory of local resources that lists organizations that are searchable based on caregiver need. Outreach activities CAN created a national television PSA (in English and Spanish) in conjunction with United Healthcare that has been distributed to every TV market across the country and has aired in 135 markets, reaching 23 million people. CAN also created a supplement to the USA TODAY newspaper that was first distributed in March 2013 and again in December. Additionally, the organization rented advertising space in Times Square for ten weeks to provide information specifically targeting military caregivers, and maintains a presence in mainstream media, serving as experts on family caregiving. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 37
Caregiverhelp.com
Feature Description Website http://www.caregiverhelp.com Managing office N/A Origination date N/A History N/A Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: N/A Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National Mission N/A Goals CaregiverHelp.com seeks to bring hope and humor to difficult situations and help caregivers develop a personalized survival plan. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Outreach activities N/A Tax Determination Status For-­‐profit [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] (Structured Education/Training): CaregiverHelp.com is an educational program that offers real-­‐life caregiver stories and step-­‐by-­‐step caregiving instructions for individual caregivers. Educational services are delivered through animated videos and printed workbooks. The program also offers services for professional caregivers. Caregivers must pay to use beyond the seven-­‐day free trial. 38
Caregivers Video Series: Walking on Eggshells
Feature Description Website http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/kimmel_cancer_center/patient_information/videos/caregivers.html Managing office Johns Hopkins University/The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center Origination date N/A History N/A Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: N/A Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National Mission N/A Goals To provide caregivers with practical, real-­‐life direction on what to do and what to say when faced with a caregiving situation. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Outreach activities N/A Tax Determination Status Nonprofit [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] The Caregivers Video Series (Structured Education/Training): Walking on Eggshells offers caregiver education through a series of short online videos designed to provide caregivers with practical, real-­‐life direction through their caregiving experiences. The series features modules on a range of topics, including “taking care of yourself,” “finding your voice,” and “preparing for medical appointments.” 39
Caregivinghelp.org
Feature Description Website http://www.caregivinghelp.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 1995 History N/A Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Adults with disabilities, and their primary caregivers Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission Caregivinghelp.og seeks to respond to families and older adults who have questions and concerns related to the challenges of aging, and to provide resources and care management to address evolving issues related to health, independence, safety, housing, and more. Goals Use a vast network of resources to help older adults who are alone or live far from family [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Bring new ideas and a fresh perspective to families who might feel confused, overwhelmed, or even frustrated by their aging loved ones’ changing needs. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Respite Care, Patient Advocacy, Structured Education/Training): Caregivinghelp.org’s parent organization, CJE SeniorLife, offers an Adult Day Services program for older adults. The program provides stimulating, structured programs in secure, supportive group settings with socialization throughout the day. Services are available at locations in Illinois (Deerfield, downtown Chicago and Evanston). Respite services are also recommended and arranged by consultants on a case-­‐by-­‐case basis. Consultants help with: • Navigating the maze of health care services • Managing appointments and coordinate care with health professionals • Accompanying clients to medical appointments to lend a second pair of ears • Coordinating and monitoring in-­‐home services (homemaker, meals, transportation) • Managing medical and insurance billing • Organizing records and paperwork • Paying bills and balance checkbooks. With preapproval, consultants can also respond to emergencies or urgent needs by: • Taking calls and making home visits during the night • Becoming a companion and advocate in urgent situations • Guiding through emergency room care, hospital admission, and the discharge process • Arranging care for a partner or loved one left at home. • Providing immediate and long-­‐term strategies to the challenges of aging. • Listening to the concerns of both the older adult and their families. • Providing assessments and ongoing care management. • Providing customized solutions to finding the best care and housing options to maximize an older adult’s independence and quality of life. • Recommending short-­‐term and long-­‐term residential options. • Assisting with future planning for adult children with special needs or chronic illness. 40
Caregivinghelp.org
Feature Description Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Caregivinghelp.org maintains a resource directory of videos and articles on caregiving-­‐related topics, such as social services and driving and transportation. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 41
CarePages
Feature Description Website http://www.carepages.com Managing office N/A Origination date 2000 History N/A Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: N/A Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission CarePages aims to ensure that no one faces a health challenge alone. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Tax Determination Status [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] (Structured Social Support): CarePages.com offers an online community of individuals who come together to share the challenges, hopes, and triumphs of anyone facing a life-­‐changing health event. Through personalized websites, members can relate their stories, post photos, and update friends and family instantly. In turn, people who care send messages of love and encouragement. For-­‐profit 42
Caring from a Distance (CFAD)
Feature Description Website http://www.cfad.org/directories/index.cfm Managing office N/A Origination date 2002 History CFAD was founded by a brother and sister who cared for their father long-­‐distance in the 1980s and ’90s. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: N/A Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Caring From a Distance is a nonprofit organization created by men and women who personally struggled with the anguish, stress, and frustration of long-­‐distance care. Its strength lies in this shared experience and in bringing together diverse backgrounds to help Caring From a Distance service and help unite the distance-­‐care community. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Caregiver Conferencing (Other): Caring From a Distance offers caregiver conferencing, a facilitated meeting conducted by telephone. It can involve anyone, from any location, with access to a telephone. Participants may include members of a given family who wish to discuss topics such as sharing caregiving responsibilities, or a loved one’s overall needs and welfare. A trained facilitator aids communication and keeps the discussion on track so that participants can work together constructively on a plan for the future. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The Caring From a Distance website includes information about a number of caregiving topics, such as managing legal documents, managing finances, and making decisions. Referral Service for Caregiver: The Caring From a Distance website maintains resource directories including web-­‐ and phone-­‐based helplines for local services. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 43
Cause (Comfort for America's Uniformed Services)
Feature Description Website http://www.cause-­‐usa.org Managing office N/A Origination date 2003 History Cause got started in April 2003, when four West Point graduates who had served in Vietnam and their wives began providing personal-­‐care items and clothing to wounded soldiers arriving at Walter Reed from the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Wounded, ill, or injured service members and veterans, and their family members Note: Children under 16 are not eligible for massage and Reiki [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events: Brooke Army Medical Center (San Antonio, TX), Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (Bethesda, MD), Landstuhl Army Regional Medical Center (Landstuhl, Germany), Balboa Naval Medical Center (San Diego, CA), Womack Medical Center (Fort Bragg, NC), Soldier Family Assistance Center (Fort Riley, KS) Warrior Family Support Center, Fort Sam (Houston, TX), Combat Reset Program (Fort Hood, TX), USO Warrior & Family Center (Fort Belvoir, VA), Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital (San Antonio, TX), Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center (Richmond, VA), John D. Dingell VA Medical Center (Detroit, MI) Mission Cause organizes programs that promote recreation, relaxation, and resiliency for members of the U.S. Armed Services recuperating from injuries received in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Goals Reduce the pain and stress experienced by wounded military service members and their caregivers during the recovery process. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Special Events (Structured Social Support): Cause holds special events at various hospital locations to bring positive diversion, fun, and comfort into the hospital for wounded service members or veterans, and their families. Events include poker nights, game nights, family craft nights, museum visits, and karaoke nights. Events are held at Fort Belvoir, the Naval Medical Center, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and other locations as needed. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Massage, Reiki, and Reflexology (Structured Wellness Activities): Cause offers massage, Reiki, and reflexology at no charge to service members, veterans, and family members at five locations: Warrior Family Support Center, Ft Sam (Houston, TX), Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (Bethesda, MD), USO Warrior & Family Center (Ft Belvoir, VA), Soldier Family Assistance Center (Ft Riley, KS), and the Combat Reset Program (Ft Hood, TX). Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual) Digital Entertainment Libraries and Game Carts (Other): Cause provides free and easy access to DVDs, video games, and gaming systems at several military and VA hospitals. 44
Cause (Comfort for America's Uniformed Services)
Feature Description Outreach activities Service members, veterans, and their families discover Cause through Wounded Warrior Transition Units, other veterans or military service organizations, staff speaking engagements, and staff attendance at Yellow Ribbon reintegration events. Cause also organizes a Warrior Ride, a fund-­‐raiser bicycle ride from Fort Lewis, WA, to Washington, DC. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 45
Coaching Into Care (CIC)
Feature Description Website http://www.va.gov/coachingintocare Origination date A pilot of the program launched in January 2010 and expanded to national coverage in spring 2011. History In January 2010, a pilot of the CIC program was launched through the VA’s Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Centers. CIC recognizes that family members and friends are likely to be the first people to recognize that veterans may need to seek help for mental health issues. The program was launched specifically to help family members and friends talk to veterans about the mental health services available to them and to encourage veterans to seek treatment. In spring 2011, CIC expanded from a regional program with offices in Philadelphia, PA, and Durham, NC, to a national program with offices on the East and West coasts. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Family members and friends of veterans Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission CIC works with friends and family of veterans struggling with mental health issues, helping them discover new ways to talk to their veteran about their concerns and treatment options. Goals Provide family members and friends of veterans with the tools to communicate with their veteran to encourage him/her to utilize VA health care in order to access treatment and lead a healthy life. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] (Patient Advocacy): CIC provides a “coaching” service, handled by “responders” and “coaches,” to assist family and friends of veterans who see that their veteran needs help. Coaching involves helping the caller figure out how to motivate their veteran to seek mental health services. Responders perform the initial intake, assessing what steps have already been taken by the family/caregiver and screening for crisis. They also provide callers with information on local VA services and other forms of support in the community (AA, etc.), and follow up with callers to determine if additional help is needed. More complicated cases are referred to coaches—licensed clinical social workers and psychologists who work with callers to develop a communication strategy. Coaches may use role play and/or help callers prioritize what issues to address with their veteran. Neither responders nor coaches provide formal therapy. The goal of the service is to help the veteran and family members find the appropriate services in their community. Mode of Delivery: Phone Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Caregiver: Responders and coaches refer callers to additional services—both those offered through the VA and through community-­‐based organizations. This includes family and couples therapy, support groups at the VA for family members, Vet Centers, and specific community resources. 46
Coaching Into Care (CIC)
Feature Description Outreach activities CIC staff are responsible for getting the word out about the services they provide. To assist in this effort, they have contracted with a marketing agency. When CIC originally launched, much of the outreach was fairly traditional—newspaper, print ads, etc. Outreach is now more web-­‐based, with a Facebook page, a Twitter account, and Google ads tied to keywords. A newsletter goes out to program coordinators inside and outside the VA. CIC also partners with other veteran service agencies; many of these agencies include a link to CIC on their websites. Tax Determination Status Government: VA 47
Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes
Feature Description Website https://saluteheroes.org Origination date 2004 History Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes was established to provide emergency financial assistance to severely wounded veterans from the conflicts in Iran and Afghanistan. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Veterans must have injuries sustained during combat during OIF/OEF or in support of those operations in hostile environment, a disability rating of 30 percent or greater, and honorable discharge. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The Coalition aims to help severely wounded veterans and families of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom recover from their injuries and illnesses, and to inspire other organizations and the general public to participate in this effort. Goals Provide aid that assists veterans transition from military to civilian life and that restores hope and faith on the road to a new life Increase resilience of veterans and their families and create self-­‐sustainability. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Helping Hand): The primary function of Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes is to provide emergency financial assistance, usually to pay utility bills, car payments and repair costs, mortgage/rent payments, medical bills, and/or groceries. Veterans fill out an online application and Coalition staff follow up to confirm eligibility and determine how best to assist the veteran and his/her family. The Coalition also runs a holiday gift program. Individuals helped throughout the year receive a gift card at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance, Miscellaneous assistance Road to Recovery Conference (Structured Social Support): The conference is a four-­‐day, all-­‐expense-­‐paid trip for veterans and their family members. The conference includes seminars, workshops, and panel discussions. Speakers are from VA and the private sector, including other veterans’ service organizations. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: The director of veterans services refers veterans to other programs when they do not meet eligibility criteria and/or when their needs will be better served by a different program/service. Outreach activities Most outreach is through word of mouth. Field reps who visit wounded service members in the hospital also provide information. Staff visit military installations to promote the Coalition, as well as run PSAs, put out press releases, and receive referrals from other veterans’ service organizations. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 48
Coast Guard Mutual Assistance
Feature Description Website http://www.cgmahq.org Managing office N/A Origination date 1924 History Originally established as The League of Coast Guard Women, the organization was to minister to the general welfare of the commissioned officers, warrant officers, enlisted men and civilian employees of the Coast Guard and their immediate families. In 1941, Coast Guard Welfare was formally established and took over the mission from the League. In 1979, the name of the organization was changed to Coast Guard Mutual Assistance. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Members of the U.S. Coast Guard and their immediate family members or surviving family members, including active-­‐duty, retirees, Coast Guard Civilian Employees, Coast Guard Reserve (Selected Reserve), Coast Guard Auxiliary, and Public Health Service Officers serving with the Coast Guard. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Coast Guard Mutual Assistance seeks to promote financial stability and general well-­‐being of the people it serves. Goals Providing maximum assistance to the largest number of individuals. Expanding and improving current programs; removing or easing restrictions; increasing limits. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Helping Hand): CGMA assists members of the Coast Guard and their families by offering short-­‐term, interest-­‐
free loans and financial grants. Assistance is provided under a variety of conditions and situations, usually involving an emergency need for everyday essentials. For example, CGMA can help with expenses related to emergency travel, temporary living arrangements, funerals, emergency home repair, loss of funds or property, disaster relief, vehicle repair, moving, housing rentals, housing closing costs, past-­‐due bills and expenses, and debt management. Nonstandard Clinical Care (Health Care): CGMA provides medical and dental assistance to Coast Guard members or immediate family members in extraordinary, unexpected, emergency situations where, after careful planning, budgeting, and utilization of available resources, a demonstrated financial need remains. Medical, dental, or hospital expenses must be medically required, not elective. CGMA does not act as an insurance company, but instead provides assistance to help clients through emergencies, particularly when medical or dental costs are not covered by other insurance plans such as TRICARE. (Mental Health Care): CGMA provides financial assistance with professional counseling to individuals in extraordinary, unexpected, emergency situations where, after careful planning, budgeting, and utilization of available resources, a demonstrated financial need remains. Counseling must be deemed necessary for the Coast Guard member or immediate family member. CGMA does not act as an insurance company, but instead provides assistance to help clients through emergencies, particularly when counseling costs are not covered by other insurance plans such as TRICARE. 49
Coast Guard Mutual Assistance
Feature Description Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: CGMA assists wounded, ill, or injured Coastguardsmen and their families in identifying a wide range of nonmedical services, such as educational assistance, employment training, benefits assistance, and child care. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. In addition, CGMA also uses several DoD resources such as the National Resource Directory and the Caregiver Pocket Guide to provide resource and referral support. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 50
Code of Support Foundation (COSF)
Feature Description Website http://www.codeofsupport.org Origination date 2010 History The Code of Support Foundation (COSF) was established by MG (Ret) Alan B. Salisbury with the goal of bridging the growing divide between military and civilian communities. Working with a dedicated team of retired military and civilian leaders, he developed the Code of Support as a parallel document to the Code of Conduct in which military personnel pledge that they are prepared to give their lives in defense of the country. The Code of Support is a set of six meaningful promises that all Americans (the 99 percent) can make to servicemen and women (the 1 percent) who sacrifice so much for the nation. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Service members, veterans, and their families Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The Code of Support Foundation works to engage and leverage the full spectrum of this nation’s resources to ensure that service members, veterans, and their families receive the support they need and have earned through their service and sacrifice. Goals Increase the American public’s awareness of the service and sacrifice of troops, veterans, and families. Ask all Americans to move beyond caring and to become committed and involved, both in providing the support the military community has earned and in doing their part to keep America strong and free. [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] Assess the needs of the military community, identify the most critical, and facilitate collaboration between public and private support organizations to effectively link their resources to meet those needs Identify the specific needs of individual service members, veterans, and family members, on a case-­‐by-­‐case basis, and coordinate and leverage the necessary public and private resources to fulfill those needs. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Outreach activities To complement the network of provider organizations, COSF is also establishing online virtual focus groups composed of representatives of the troops, wounded warriors, veterans, and their families. (Patient Advocacy): As part of the Case Coordination program, COSF has recently initiated a Get Help service that allows service members, veterans, and family members who have urgent needs and don’t know how to get help to contact COSF, which will provide immediate help using the resources of the Warrior & Family Support Network of organizations. Many, if not most, of these situations are complex and typically require more than one organization to participate and cooperate in delivering holistic solutions to the individual or family involved. COSF serves as the active case coordinator in these situations, making connections with all of the organizations involved in delivering the required services, and providing the client (service member, veteran, or family) with a single point of contact to get the help they need. Mode of Delivery: Phone, Internet The campaign of the documentary was also great outreach. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 51
Coming Home Project
Feature Description Website Origination date History http://www.cominghomeproject.net/ 2007 The founders of the Coming Home Project began using retreats to alleviate the suffering and promote wellness of veterans, service members, and their families. Since its inception, the Coming Home Project has convened about 25 retreats with 2,500 attendees from 48 states. The Coming Home Project also began convening retreats for service providers (or professional caregivers)—those who are on the front lines at the hospitals and medical centers. General eligibility criteria: OIF/OEF veterans and their families, the broader military population, including families, caregivers, service members, veterans, and service providers. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] No Target population(s) Specific injury/illness Geographic reach Mission Goals Services for caregivers National or international The Coming Home Project’s objective is to alleviate the suffering and promote wellness of OIF/OEF veterans and their families. Facilitate reconnection with body, mind, and spirit Facilitate reconnection with families, communities, and peer groups Eliminate stigma associated with psychological health issues Facilitate warm handoffs to community resources Assist in reconstructing a sense of life meaning and purpose. Common Caregiving Services (Structured Wellness Activities): The Project offers activities for large groups at the retreats on yoga, qigong and meditation. It also offers small support groups, group activities in expressive arts, journaling, and recreation. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group and individual), Phone, Internet, Printed (Structured Education/Training): The Project teaches self-­‐care skills and developing a self-­‐care protocol, parenting classes, family life skills, and resilience skills. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group and individual), Phone, Internet, Printed Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The Project provides information at the retreats. Representatives from the national and local communities who have information on financial, legal, and VA health care and benefits attend the retreats. Referral Service for Veteran: The Project often refers veterans to the VA at the retreats. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities Half the Coming Home Project’s referrals are from established government programs; half from word of mouth. The program receives referrals from Military Treatment Facilities, VA, DoD, and the National Guard and reserves. The program also has a listserv used to recruit people. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 52
Compass Retreat Center
Feature Description Website http://www.compassretreatcenter.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2009 History Recognizing that a whole family sacrifices during deployment the primary motivation for the center was a desire to create a space where families could come and reconnect. They strive every year to offer a program of excellence, and have offered a retreat each year. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Service members or veterans and their family members who have recently experienced a deployment and recognize the challenges of reconnecting. National Guard and Reserve service members or veterans are a key target group. Wounded, ill, and injured veterans are among retreat attendees. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach Local: Retreats held in Ohio and Indiana. Typically, attendees come from these states and surrounding ones such as Kentucky, West Virginia, Michigan, and Illinois. Mission Compass Retreat Center is a family of veterans serving veterans. [They] offer a tactical reintegration program that bridges the gap between military and civilian life. Goals The goals of Compass Retreat Center are threefold: Help military families reintegrate and stay together, and bring them together to support one another Assist single service members in creating an extended community Bring veterans of prior wars together with OEF/OIF veterans to facilitate support and healing among both groups Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Structured Social Support): Compass Retreats are held for service members or veterans and their family members post deployment in picturesque outdoor settings. Retreats facilitate interaction between military families. Families in attendance often create bonds that last beyond the duration of the retreat. Compass offers its programs and activities throughout the duration of its five-­‐night retreats. Retreats also offer outdoor physical activities, educational sessions, and breakout sessions tailored toward service members and veterans or couples. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) (Structured Wellness Activities): Retreats offer outdoor physical activities such as ziplining, climbing walls, high and low ropes courses, obstacle courses, nature hikes, swimming, canoeing, and more depending on the time of year and the host facility. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) (Structured Education or Training): Retreats offer educational sessions facilitated by licensed therapists, religious leaders, or other trained professionals. Sessions center on any one of a range of topics, including posttraumatic stress disorder, moral injury, and reattachment after deployment. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) 53
Compass Retreat Center
Feature Description Outreach activities Compass Retreat Centers works with National Guard and reserve offices in Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. Some National Guard and reserve offices disseminate program information directly to returning service members. The web also serves as a key portal for outreach. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 54
Courage Beyond
Feature Description Website http://www.couragebeyond.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2010 History Courage Beyond was formed when its founders recognized that too many of the nation's warriors and families were falling through the cracks when returning home from war with PTSD. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Veterans or service members of any branch of service (as well as Coast Guard), or family members and loved ones of these individuals. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international: Works directly with licensed, qualified therapists in 32 states, and can find licensed, qualified therapists in the other 18 and pay for that counseling. Mission Courage Beyond strives to provide confidential, no-­‐cost programs and services to warriors, veterans, and military families experiencing PTSD, combat stress, and other invisible wounds of war. Goals Courage Beyond targets the mind, body, and spirit, encouraging service members and their families to actively pursue health and wellness in a holistic manner. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Retreats (Structured Social Support): Courage Beyond hosts small, three-­‐day group retreats for military spouses. The goal of the retreats is to bring spouses together and empower them. A mental health clinician tailors the content of each retreat to needs of the specific participants who will be attending. Retreats focus on various aspects of mind, body, and spirit. Attendees can also participate in counseling with trained counselors or peer leaders, and often remain in touch after the retreats (e.g., via Facebook). In-­‐Person Social Support (Structured Social Support): Courage Beyond hosts weekly and monthly social support groups near five different military installations. Weekly support groups consist of open-­‐ended discussions, while monthly groups involve more structured activities. Online Social Support (Structured Social Support): Courage Beyond provides three types of online support groups for military family members and veterans: •
•
•
Seven Lives of Military Wives, which assists military wives to engage in self-­‐care. Trench Talk, which serves as a support forum for female military family members or caregivers. The forum hosts well-­‐known guest speakers and aims to ensure that family members and caregivers feel comfortable seeking help when needed. Peer moderators, who monitor social media to identify military family members/caregivers who may need assistance or referral to care. Peer moderators have been trained through the ASSIST suicide prevention training. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group), Internet Retreats (Structured Wellness Activities): Attendees practice yoga daily. They also engage in activities to help them let go of negative thoughts and emotions. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) 55
Courage Beyond
Feature Description Nonstandard Clinical Care (Mental Health Care): Service members or veterans and family members/caregivers may seek mental health care coverage through Courage Beyond in one of two ways: •
•
Individuals seeking care will call the crisis line, and state their geographic location, symptoms, and dates of military service (or the service of their loved one). Courage Beyond will refer these individuals to credentialed therapists, and will approve payment of four initial sessions for any insurance-­‐
approved mental health treatment (at no cost to the recipient). Based on the needs of the individual patient, Courage Beyond will pay for a maximum of 12 sessions. A service member or veteran who prefers not to utilize VA or DoD mental health care can present at a credentialed private therapist’s office. The same process applies, whereby Courage Beyond will approve payment of four initial sessions and up to 12 sessions total, depending on need. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Courage Beyond offers audio stories about experiences of service members and veterans dealing with trauma. Referral Service for Veteran: Service members, veterans, and family members or caregivers often contact the organization for referrals via telephone, email, or Facebook. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities Outreach occurs on military installations and through social media. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 56
Defenders of Freedom (DOF)
Feature Description Website http://www.defendersoffreedom.us/ Managing office Coppell, TX Origination date 2004 History DOF was formed to support deployed and wounded service members and to provide an avenue for the community nationwide to help the troops. DOF strives to offer support that satisfies the needs of service members who are deployed or wounded. DOF has sent individualized care packages for the last eight years to troops deployed around the world, especially Iraq and Afghanistan. DOF has recently expanded services to provide emergency financial aid to wounded service members and is building a program to provide housing for veterans. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: N/A Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission DOF seeks to be an avenue for Americans to support troops who are deployed or wounded, by contributing both monetary and in-­‐kind donations. Goals Support wounded soldiers with emergency financial assistance, encouragement, and needed items, especially those with no support from family or friends [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] •
•
•
•
Services for caregivers Support the families of wounded soldiers financially, physically, and emotionally Provide care packages to deployed servicemen worldwide Provide professional mentoring, career counseling, personal mentoring Provide knowledge to all Americans on troop service and sacrifices and how they can help those who fought for their freedoms Common Caregiving Services (Helping Hand): Provides emergency financial assistance to wounded veterans to pay for rent, utility bills, home and vehicle repairs, and food/gas. Homes for Defenders of Freedom (Helping Hand): This program, launched in 2012, is in the process of building two homes that will be given to severely wounded and disabled veterans who served honorably in Iraq and Afghanistan. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 57
Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center (DVBIC)
Feature Description Website http://www.dvbic.org Origination date 1992 History DVBIC is the TBI operational component of the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and TBI. It was founded by Congress in response to the first Persian Gulf War, under the name Defense and Veterans Head Injury Program. At that time, its goal was to integrate specialized TBI care, research and education across military and veteran medical care systems. DVBIC now encompasses a network of 16 centers, operating out of 11 military treatment facilities and five VA polytrauma hospitals. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: For clinical services: Service member must have served during the Gulf War, OEF/OIF, or the Global War on Terror and have a documented diagnosis of TBI that has not yet resolved. Family Caregiver Curriculum and informational resources available to anyone. [Caregiver incidental][Military specific] Specific injury/illness Brain injuries Geographic reach National or international Mission DVBIC seeks to serve active-­‐duty military, their beneficiaries, and veterans with traumatic brain injuries through state-­‐of-­‐the-­‐art clinical care, innovative clinical research initiatives and educational programs, and support for force health protection services. DVBIC fulfills this mission through ongoing collaboration with the DoD, military services, VA, civilian health partners, local communities, families, and individuals with TBI. Goals NA Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Family Caregiver Curriculum (Structured Education/Training): A four-­‐module guide that provides caregivers with information to help care for their loved ones who suffer from TBI and themselves. Health-­‐Related Quality of Life in Caregivers of Service Members with Military Related Traumatic Brain Injury Study (Other): Design and execution of a longitudinal study of the effects of TBI in Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom on service members and their families. . . . [It] is a longitudinal evaluation of the effect of caring for a service member with TBI on the caregiver’s overall health and well-­‐being. Final regulatory approval to enroll participants was received in 2012. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The Family & Friends section of DVBIC’s website contains links to TBI and caregiving-­‐related information and resources. Tax Determination Status Government 58
Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
Feature Description Website http://www.dav.org/ Origination date DAV started as the Disabled American Veterans of the World War (DAVWW), created in 1921. History DAVWW was unofficially founded December 25, 1919, by Judge Robert S. Marx, a U.S. Army Captain from Cincinnati, OH, at a Christmas party for disabled veterans. DAVWW began its advocacy work in early 1920 through vocational training and other organized group efforts, which led to DAVWW’s official launch on September 25, 1921, at its first National Caucus. Since DAV’s official launch, the organization has grown in size from its 100 veteran member base in 1919, to the current member base of more than 1.2 million veterans. DAV provides free services through a national network of 88 national service offices, ten national appeals offices, 270 national service officers, 38 transition service offices, 198 hospital service coordinator offices, 52 state-­‐level departments, 249 VA voluntary service representatives, and more than 1,900 local chapters. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: •
•
•
•
Served in the armed forces during a period of war or under conditions simulating war Were wounded, disabled to any degree, or left with long-­‐term illness as a result of military service Were discharged or retired from military service under honorable conditions. DAV officially recognizes that families and caregivers are included in veterans’ rehabilitation. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No: Serves veterans, and family members and caregivers for veterans, seeking federal and state benefits. Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events: National service offices, fraternal state departments and chapters located in all 50 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the Philippines. Mission DAV’s mission is to fulfill the nation’s promises to the men and women who have served. DAV is dedicated to a single purpose: empowering veterans to lead high-­‐quality lives with respect and dignity. DAV accomplishes this by ensuring that veterans and their families can access the full range of benefits available to them; fighting for the interests of America’s injured heroes on Capitol Hill; and educating the public about the great sacrifices and needs of veterans transitioning back to civilian life. Goals DAV fulfills its mission by: •
•
•
•
•
Providing free, professional assistance to veterans and their families in obtaining benefits and services earned through military service and provided by the Department of Veteran Affairs and other agencies of government Providing outreach concerning its program services to the American people generally, and to disabled veterans and their families specifically Representing the interests of disabled veterans, their families, their widowed spouses and their orphans before Congress, the White House, and the Judicial Branch, as well as state and local government Extending the DAV’s mission of hope into the communities where these veterans and their families live through a network of state-­‐level Departments and local Chapters Providing a structure through which disabled veterans can express their compassion for their fellow veterans through a variety of volunteer programs. 59
Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
Feature Description Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Patient Advocacy): If DAV has a veteran who is severely disabled, the caregiver is the person who DAV primarily works with in advocating for the veteran as a VA patient for health benefits and services and in processing disability claims for compensation and ancillary benefits. In addition, DAV TSOs provide benefits counseling and assistance to service members and their family caregivers filing initial claims for VA benefits at more than 100 military installations throughout the country. Counsel and representation for active-­‐duty service members and their families during their transition was provided through the military’s disability evaluation system. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual), Phone, Printed (Helping Hand): DAV offers transportation services for veterans and their family caregivers to attend VA medical appointments. DAV’s national veteran transportation network has over 9,000 volunteers who put in approximately 1.6 million hours of volunteer work over approximately 27 million miles. Mode of Delivery: Transportation assistance (Other): DAV has a charitable service trust that links to local institutions providing services to caregivers, including local Easter Seals chapters. Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: DAV refers veterans to VA services and programs, State Aging and Disability Resource Centers, State Units on Agency on Aging and the state long-­‐term-­‐care ombudsmen. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities N/A Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 60
Department of Defense (DoD) Office of Warrior Care Policy (WCP)
Feature Description Website http://prhome.defense.gov/HA/WCP/ Origination date 2008 History WCP was created to ensure that wounded, ill, and injured service members receive high-­‐quality care and seamless transition support. Since its inception, WCP has sought to emphasize support to family members and caregivers as a holistic approach to supporting the service member. WCP specifically emphasizes that there is not a typical military caregiver, recognizing that caregivers can be spouses, significant others, parents, children, siblings, grandparents, neighbors, and friends. WCP aims to reach the entire military caregiver community of family, friends, and neighbors. Target population(s) [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission WCP ensures that recovering wounded, ill, injured, and transitioning members of the Armed Forces receive equitable, consistent, and high-­‐quality support and services. WCP helps wounded warriors and their families through effective collaboration efforts, proactive communication, responsive policy, and program oversight. Goals WCP aims to fulfill its mission and serve military caregivers through the following goals: •
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•
Services for caregivers Increase access to services and information for providing personal care to service members with PTSD
and TBI, and other serious illnesses and injuries
Improve the transition from DoD to VA for service members and caregivers
Educate caregivers on healthy behaviors, providing information on personal care, legal and financial
issues, as well as injuries and illnesses
Common Caregiving Services (Patient Advocacy): WCP oversees the DoD Recovery Coordination Program (RCP), which provides RCCs to wounded, ill, and injured service members to provide nonmedical support and promote recovery and rehabilitation. RCCs collaborate with service members, their care teams, and their family members to develop a Comprehensive Recovery Plan (CRP) that identifies goals in recovery and rehabilitation, education, employment, housing, and other areas, and outlines methods and resources to achieve them. WCP works with the Military Services’ wounded warriors programs to develop the CRP using the RCP Support Solution, a secure, online tool that automates CRP workflow and shares information between RCCs and service members and their families. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual), Phone, Internet (Financial Stipend): WCP oversees the Wounded Warrior Programs’ implementation of the Special Compensation for Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (SCAADL) program. SCAADL is the DoD’s monthly compensation for service members who incur a permanent catastrophic injury or illness. SCAADL helps offset the loss of income of a primary caregiver who provides non-­‐medical care, support, and assistance for the service member. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance 61
Department of Defense (DoD) Office of Warrior Care Policy (WCP)
Feature Description (Structured Education/ Training): WCP is partnering with Military Community and Family Policy to host a series of monthly webinars for professional caregivers on myriad subjects, including the commonalities and differences of military caregivers coping with TBI, and the availability of assistive technology devices. The goal is to enhance understanding of the unique aspects of providing care for service members and veterans. Although the webinars are aimed at professional caregivers, family caregivers and others are welcome to participate. Mode of Delivery: Internet Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The NRD website is a collaborative effort among DoD, VA, and the Labor Department. It is a portal for service members, veterans, and their families and caregivers, providing information and links to national, state, and local resources. Referral Service for Veteran: When service members transition to veteran status, RCCs assist in their transition to VA. Referral Service for Caregiver: WCP refers caregivers for veterans and caregivers for service members transitioning to veteran status to the VA Caregiver Support Program. Outreach activities RCCs serve as a main referral stream for WCP because they work with service members and their families during recovery, rehabilitation, and transition, and are located at Military Treatment Facilities. In addition, many caregiver organizations refer service members, families, and caregivers to NRD. WCP also uses its blog, Facebook, and Twitter to disseminate information about program activities. Tax Determination Status Government: DoD 62
Easter Seals Military and Veterans Services
Feature Description Website http://www.easterseals.com/our-­‐programs/military-­‐veterans/ Origination date 1919 History Easter Seals has supported veterans since World War II when the organization expanded its reach to military service members returning home with disabilities. Building upon these years of experience, Easter Seals established service to the nation’s military and veteran communities as a national priority in 2005. After the passage of the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2010, the Department of Veterans Affairs selected Easter Seals as the lead organization to provide multi-­‐modal training to military caregivers through the National Veteran Caregiver Training Program (NVCTP). Through an array of collaborative partnerships, Easter Seals’ other offerings for military/veteran caregivers at the national level have also expanded to include respite programs, information and referral, as well as additional education/training opportunities services and supports for service members, veterans, their families, and families of the fallen at the local level are provided through a network of 72 affiliates in 48 states. Programs include housing, transportation/mobility, camping and recreation, job readiness, staffing and placement, respite, and other special care services that make transitioning and reintegrating into the community easier. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: People with disabilities or special needs, and their families and caregivers. Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international: More than 550 sites in the United States; also provides services in Puerto Rico, Canada, Australia, and Mexico Mission Easter Seals' mission is to provide exceptional services to ensure all people with disabilities or special needs and their families have equal opportunities to live, learn, work, and play in their communities. Goals To accomplish its mission in the military and caregiver realm, Easter Seals aims to: [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] •
•
•
•
•
Provide education and training for military caregivers Provide leadership to communities and act as a clearinghouse for efficient and effective service delivery Engage veterans, service members, caregivers, their families, and families of the fallen in development of programs to address unmet needs at the local level Expand capacity for caregivers and veterans’ respite Act as a navigator of and connector to appropriate services and supports through Community OneSource. 63
Easter Seals Military and Veterans Services
Feature Description Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Legacy Corps (Respite): Easter Seals has partnered with AmeriCorps and the University of Maryland as part of their Legacy Corps project, which recruits and trains volunteers to provide respite, child care, and transportation services to veterans, service members, and caregivers. Legacy Corps provides comprehensive training, and a monthly living allowance is provided to over 500 participating AmeriCorps volunteers nationwide. Easter Seals crafted Legacy Corps’ training resources for respite providers (Ten to 20 hours, including seven modules): •
•
•
•
•
•
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Military Culture Home Life and Family Issues Veteran Personal Care Amputation, Burn Injuries, and Blindness/Visual Impairment Depression, Substance Abuse & Suicide Prevention TBI, Posttraumatic Stress, & Alzheimer’s Disease Privacy, Legal & Financial Issues Glossary of Military Terms These training resources will be available for other members of the respite care community and aging network. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual and group), Phone NVCTP (Structured Education/Training): Through VA, Easter Seals is the contract lead on NVCTP, with subcontracts with Atlas Research, Axiom Resource Management, the National Alliance for Caregiving, Family Caregiver Alliance, and the National Alliance for Hispanic Health. •
•
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Training is provided through referrals of eligible caregivers received from VA Caregiver Support Coordinators at all VA Medical Centers. The NVCTP includes six modules and a final assessment. The training covers: Module 1: Caregiver Self Care, including a section on the diversity of caregiving (for caregivers with children, parental caregivers, siblings, and same sex spouses/partners) Module 2: Home Safety Module 3: Caregiver Skills Module 4: Managing Challenging Behaviors Module 5: Personal Care Module 6: Resources 20-­‐question Caregiver Final Self-­‐Assessment The training is offered in both English and Spanish and is offered in-­‐person and online. Training materials include: •
•
•
•
200+ page, user-­‐friendly workbook 4.5 hours of online content CD/DVD version of the training Relaxation CD Four new three-­‐hour, in-­‐person training sessions for caregivers of veterans from all ages/eras are available in 2013 through VA. Training topics include: •
•
•
•
Problem Solving/Communications Taking Care of Yourself Stress Management Utilizing Technology 64
Easter Seals Military and Veterans Services
Feature Description USO Caregiver Training (Structured Education/Training): Easter Seals and Atlas Research have partnered with USO’s Warrior and Family Care division to develop and deploy a series of four, 1.5–hour training modules to provide in-­‐person support for caregivers who are supporting and caring for the nation’s wounded warriors. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group), Printed, Internet Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Information Source: Easter Seals’ Community OneSource toll-­‐free number provides information and referrals for veterans and caregivers. Outreach activities Easter Seals reaches out to service members, veterans, caregivers, their families and families of the fallen through its partnerships. VA Caregiver Support refers many caregivers to the program. Easter Seals’ Dixon Center fosters engagement at the community level. The Center advises decisionmakers on how to help veterans, their families, and caregivers in the community and helps mobilize community partners to serve the military community with a focus on access to health care, education and employment. Dixon Center works to build community capacity for direct services for veterans, families, and caregivers. In addition, Easter Seals regularly disseminates information on program activities and has an active presence on social media. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 65
Easter Seals New Hampshire Military and Veterans Services
Feature Description Website http://nh.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=NHDR_Veterans_Services Origination date 2005 History The state Easter Seals programs have values and service lines in common with the national Easter Seals program, but do not report to it. Caring for veterans has been a big passion of Easter Seals for more than 95 years since first offering care for injured veterans returning from World War I and World War II. In post-­‐9/11 deployments, approximately 45 percent of the boots on the ground were from the National Guard and Reserve. New Hampshire has a large National Guard and Reserve population (more than 1,000 Guardsmen last year), which is different from other active-­‐duty and veteran populations. Guard and Reserve do not have same type of cloistered support. In the mid-­‐2000s, a member of the Easter Seals New Hampshire board of directors (and Korean War veteran), made a large donation to the program to help veterans in the state; this was used to start the program’s philanthropic fund, Veterans Count. These philanthropic dollars are used for service members’, veterans’, and families’ various needs, from diapers to cars to rent. Easter Seals New Hampshire decided it is not enough to provide funding without additional assistance to veterans, service members, and families. To better serve this population, Easter Seals New Hampshire adopted a social service model and created the Deployment Cycle Support Care Coordination Program in partnership with the New Hampshire National Guard and New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services. The Deployment Cycle Support Care Coordination Program links veterans, service members, and their families with employment assistance, substance abuse treatment, housing assistance, mental health services and counseling, and other social services. The program has grown along with the number of deployments. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Service members, veterans, and families throughout New Hampshire. Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach Local: New Hampshire Mission Easter Seals Military and Veteran Services, in partnership with Veterans Count, responds rapidly, efficiently, and effectively to the unmet needs of service members, veterans, and their families to ensure that they can thrive in their communities. Goals Easter Seals Military and Veteran Services has targeted the following goals to fulfill its mission: [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] •
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•
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Counseling for individual, couples, and children Employment assistance—reviewing resumes, career counseling, and job placement Providing links to child care and respite resources Assistance with navigating and accessing civilian and VA health care systems Guidance on budgeting and financial management Emergency financial assistance Support with the reunion and reintegration process post-­‐deployment 66
Easter Seals New Hampshire Military and Veterans Services
Feature Description Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Helping Hand): The Deployment Cycle Support Care Coordination Program provides financial support for veterans, service members, and their families, which may include, but is not limited to: transportation, housing, rent, fuel assistance, utilities, vehicle repair, gasoline, food, child care, tuition, and medical assistance. This financial support includes emergency funding during predeployment, deployment, and return from service. When financial assistance is awarded, the Deployment Cycle Support Care coordinators work with each client to develop care plans to ensure that veterans, service members and their families receive the assistance they need to become self-­‐sufficient. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance (Structured Social Support): Easter Seals Military and Veteran Services hosts social events for veterans, service members, and their family members, including: •
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An Afternoon with Chester Nez, WW II Code Talker Annual Veterans Count Golf Tournament Porsche of Nashua Auto Show New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association Event Veterans Count Breakfast Nashua Chapter Annual Fundraising Event. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: The Deployment Cycle Support Care coordinators refer veterans and service members to military services and local community resources. In addition, the coordinators are clinicians, and if they observe issues of abuse or a need for mental health care services or other services, they will make the appropriate referrals. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities New Hampshire Easter Seals Military and Veteran Services has regular meetings with the National Guard. The National Guard refers many service members and their families to the Deployment Cycle Support Care Coordination Program. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 67
EOD (Explosives Ordnance Disposal) Warrior Foundation
Feature Description Website http://www.eodwarriorfoundation.org Managing office N/A Origination date 2013 History EOD Warrior Foundation was formed by the merger of two existing organizations, the EOD Memorial Foundation (originally begun in 1969) and Wounded EOD Warrior Foundation (founded in 2007). EOD Warrior Foundation was developed as a response to the increasing number of fallen service members, EOD technicians who were returning from deployments with severe injuries, and a call from the EOD community for the services offered to be housed under one organization. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Service members or veterans who graduated from an EOD school, or their family members. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission EOD Warrior Foundation seeks to manage an effective, transparent, and accountable nonprofit organization that provides direct and essential assistance and support to wounded EOD warriors and their families and honors fallen EOD warriors. The Foundation manages its fiduciary responsibilities with the highest ethical standards. Goals The EOD Warrior Foundation executes their mission by: •
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Services for caregivers Providing timely, ongoing support to wounded, ill, and injured EOD warriors and their families
Providing ongoing support to families of fallen EOD warriors
Providing an annual EOD scholarship program
Ensuring ongoing care to the EOD Memorial
Maintaining an active and accountable board of directors and board of ambassadors that share this
vision and execute the mission to the highest ethical standards
Raising funds and growing financially to include the establishment of an endowment by:
o Fostering relationships with individuals, corporations, and foundations
o Pursuing both federal and state grant opportunities
o Maintaining a robust combined federal campaign
o Developing a robust call-­‐to-­‐action online giving campaign.
Common Caregiving Services Financial Assistance (Helping Hand): The EOD Warrior Foundation provides financial assistance to wounded EOD service members, veterans, and their family members. Newly injured EOD technicians receive an initial grant package consisting of an iPad to maintain connectivity with their comrades, friends, and family who cannot be at their bedside as well as $3,000 in financial assistance. Follow-­‐on grants are provided on a case-­‐by-­‐
case basis depending on need and can be used to pay expenses such as child care, adaptive equipment, retreats, travel expenses, and debt relief. To receive follow-­‐on grants, EOD warriors must apply, and their identity and financial need confirmed by the Foundation. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance (typically paid to vendor) 68
EOD (Explosives Ordnance Disposal) Warrior Foundation
Feature Description Caregiver Retreats (Structured Social Support): The EOD Warrior Foundation began offering caregiver retreats in 2013. Events are one day in length and consist of activities for caregivers such as dinner and a play or outdoor activities. Retreats enable caregivers to bond with one another and establish ongoing friendship and support. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Outreach activities The EOD Warrior Foundation is notified by the command when a wounded EOD warrior returns from a deployment. Foundation staff members also conduct weekly visits to Walter Reed, and disseminate information at EOD school graduations. The organization also maintains a website, Facebook page and Twitter account. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 69
Family & Friends for Freedom Fund
Feature Description Website http://injuredmarinesfund.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2004 History On September 22, 2004, a Marine in the founder’s family was severely injured in Iraq and spent six and a half weeks at the Bethesda Naval Center. His arduous journey and the family’s experiences inspired other family and some friends to found a nonprofit organization called Family & Friends For Freedom Fund, Inc. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Injured service members and their family members Specific injury/illness No [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] Geographic reach National or international Mission Family & Friends for Freedom Fund’s mission is to provide financial support grants to combat-­‐wounded service men and women from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Helping Hand): Family & Friends for Freedom Fund seeks to help fill the gap in care expenses between what insurance and the government will cover for wounded soldiers and the related expenses incurred in their everyday lives. Service members can apply for help via an online application. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 70
Family Caregiver Alliance
Feature Description Website http://www.caregiver.org Origination date Founded 1977, as the Family Survival Project History The Alliance started in San Francisco as a grassroots organization for caregivers of those with cognitive impairments in San Francisco, but over time, it has expanded to support caregivers of individuals with a range of injuries and illnesses, and it operates programs at local, state, and national levels. Family Caregiver Alliance provides direct services to family caregivers in the San Francisco Bay Area and is the lead agency and model for California’s statewide system of Caregiver Resource Centers. Family Caregiver Alliance’s National Center on Caregiving (NCC) has helped develop policies and programs for family caregivers at the national level and in every state in the country since 2001. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Caregivers, including military caregivers. Note: When Family Caregiver Alliance conducts client intakes, they ask caregivers if they are caring for veterans. Caregivers for veterans are connected with the VA and other resources. [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Specific injury/illness No: Serves caregivers who care for individuals with a range of illnesses and injuries. Geographic reach National with local branches/offices: Offers services nationally over the phone and locally (in six Bay Area counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo and Santa Clara) through phone and in-­‐
home visits Mission Family Caregiver Alliance provides a public voice for family caregivers through various advocacy efforts; raises awareness about caregiver issues; offers family caregivers assistance, education, and services; and conducts research about family caregiver needs and issues. Goals Family Caregiver Alliance conducts intakes with caregivers and then, if they are local, visits their home. The Alliance identifies the issue, designs a plan to resolve it, and implements a plan. The plan can involve a number of services, activities, and offerings, including the following: •
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Services for caregivers Short-­‐term respite grants Corporate eldercare consulting services Connections to counseling and online groups Education and training on caregiving Assistance with Medicare and Medical Information on resources and other services Political advocacy Research. Common Caregiving Services (Respite Care): Family Caregiver Alliance offers short-­‐term respite grants. Family Caregiver Alliance awards these funds through direct pay and contracts with home care agencies. Direct pay goes to friends and family for respite care. Friends and family who provide respite submit a timesheet to Family Caregiver Alliance and the organization pays them 10-­‐18 dollars per hour. Family Caregiver Alliance also contracts with other home care agencies that offer respite care. Contracted agencies also submit timesheets to Family Caregiver Alliance. 71
Family Caregiver Alliance
Feature Description Family Caregiver Alliance offers respite retreats that include training on dealing with challenging behaviors and training on stress management, lunch, and therapeutic drumming sessions. The respite retreats are daylong gatherings for caregivers, and Family Caregiver Alliance arranges care while the caregiver is away. Family Caregiver Alliance offers Camp for Caring, which is a program that provides respite retreats for care recipients. Care recipients are assessed for appropriate fit and safety before they can participate in Camp for Caring. Those care recipients who are deemed eligible are dropped off at camp and participate in art and other activities. The care recipients receive 24-­‐7 care at Camp for Caring. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group and individual) (Helping Hand): Family Caregiver Alliance provides corporate eldercare consulting services through assisting human resource departments and employee assistance programs to establish cost-­‐effective programs that support employees who are also caregivers. Mode of Delivery: Miscellaneous assistance (Structured Social Support): Family Caregiver Alliance developed and manages Link2Care, which is a password-­‐
protected online information and support program for California caregivers of an adult with dementia. Caregivers have access to the online discussion group and a regularly updated website 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group and individual), Phone, Internet (Structured Education/Training): Family Caregiver Alliance offers caregiver workshops and professional training to increase caregivers’ knowledge and skills. Family Caregiver Alliance trainers all have master’s degrees in social work. Family Caregiver Alliance offers 6-­‐
week group training sessions on psycho-­‐education two times a year in each county that Family Caregiver Alliance serves (i.e., Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties). Family Caregiver Alliance also offers Caregiver College, which is a training program that teaches caregivers practical caregiver skills, like flossing, transfer skills, and toileting. Family Caregiver Alliance brings those experts in. Family Caregiver Alliance gives participants in Caregiver College a caregiver college video series, which is made with real caregivers. Many workshops focus on how to advocate with doctors. Family Caregiver Alliance also offers legal workshops that connect caregivers with attorneys if they need assistance with legal issues. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group and individual), Internet Standard Clinical Care (Mental Health Care): Family Caregiver Alliance contracts with Mount Zion Horizon Healthcare Therapists. Mount Zion Horizon Healthcare Therapists offers five free therapy sessions for caregivers. After the five sessions, the case must be reviewed for additional free sessions or the caregivers must pay for additional sessions. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Family Caregiver Alliance offers links to a number of publications and resources: Fact sheets, newsletters, research studies and reports, policy briefs, and other materials are widely utilized, as is the program’s expertise in developing innovative services for families and professional care providers. Outreach activities Much of the outreach for Family Caregiver Alliance has been word of mouth. VA, church groups, and hospitals refer people to Family Caregiver Alliance. Family Caregiver Alliance has set up tables in the lobbies of corporate offices and various resource fairs to offer information about the organization’s services. 72
Family Caregiver Alliance
Feature Description Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 73
Federal Recovery Coordinator Program
Feature Description Website http://www.oefoif.va.gov/fedrecovery.asp Origination date 2007 History Following reports of poor case management for outpatients at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, DoD and VA jointly developed the Federal Recovery Coordination Program (FRCP) to coordinate the clinical and nonclinical services needed by severely wounded, ill, and injured service members and veterans. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Severely injured, ill, or wounded service members and veterans, and their families. Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The Program seeks to provide support for the recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration of severely injured, ill, or wounded service members and veterans. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Tax Determination Status Government: VA in conjunction with DoD [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] (Patient Advocacy): An assigned Federal Recovery Coordinator will develop a Federal Individualized Recovery Plan with input from the multidisciplinary heath care team, the service member or veteran, and their family or caregiver. They track the care, management, and transition of a recovering service member or veteran through recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration. 74
Fisher House
Feature Description Website http://www.fisherhouse.org Managing office N/A Origination date 1990 History The organization was founded by Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher to show gratitude to the military. After purchasing the USS Intrepid and opening it as a museum to honor service members, Zachary Fisher wanted to do something more tangible to help the military. He worked with the Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Tross, who recognized the need for housing at military hospitals for patients’ family members and loved ones. Zachary Fisher felt that, as a builder, he would be able to contribute a house at Bethesda Hospital for service members and loved ones to stay in while accompanying a patient being cared for at the hospital. He built the first 24 Fisher Houses. The Fisher Foundation was established, but the first houses were financed by Zachary Fisher and gifted to the DoD and VA hospitals. After Mr. Fisher’s death, the foundation underwent some changes and support was solicited from members of the American public who were familiar with Fisher House and had a desire to support military families. Through their support, the Fisher family was able to continue the legacy of Fisher House. Today there are 62 Fisher Houses in 45 locations, including two in Germany. In June 2013, Fisher House opened its first international house in Birmingham, England, to support British military members being treated at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in the newly opening military ward. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Family members of service members and veterans, including extended family members and loved ones [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission N/A Goals Fisher House’s goals are to: •
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Act as the international spokesperson to educate and inform military and veterans’ families and the American public about the Fisher House program. Promote and increase visibility to the Fisher House program Serve as a resource to individual Fisher House managers, helping them in their local communities to best fulfill their obligations, and enhance existing volunteer programs Raise funds in support of the mission and individual houses Allow for special improvements to existing comfort homes, if not otherwise provided by the government or local support groups if requested and needed, and construct and furnish additional Fisher Houses in response to an approved requirement Provide assistance to military families and Fisher House managers in support of other programs as may be requested by the military services and VA, and approved by the Board of Trustees Encourage support for military and veterans’ families Inform and advise DoD, VA, and the individual military services on matters relating to the program; react to issues; and respond to needs and requests from Fisher House managers, as directed by corporate officers and the Board of Trustees Coordinate with and provide assistance to other Fisher legacy charities as requested and appropriate Adhere to the highest standards of management, governance, and stewardship. 75
Fisher House
Feature Description Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Comfort Homes (Helping Hand): Fisher House provides a network of comfort homes where military and veterans’ families can stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving treatment. These homes are located at major military and VA medical centers nationwide, close to the medical center or hospital they serve. Hero Miles (Helping Hand): Fisher House Foundation also operates the Hero Miles program, using donated frequent flyer miles to bring family members to the bedside of injured service members. Hotels for Heroes (Helping Hand): The Hotels for Heroes program uses donated hotel points to allow family members to stay at hotels near medical centers without charge. Mode of Delivery: Housing assistance Outreach activities Referrals for Fisher House come from the hospitals. That is why they are always built at a hospital: The houses are owned and operated as a hospital service. It is generally the patient’s caseworker who asks the patient who they need with them. The caseworker will put in the request for Fisher House or Hero Miles. The organization has automated the Hero Miles program with trusted agents at various locations to assist with submitting requests. Caseworkers and nurses also provide validation for each request. The organization does not do a lot of advertising or marketing. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 76
Gary Sinise Foundation
Feature Description Website http://www.garysinisefoundation.org Origination date GSF was founded in 2010 and launched publically on June 30, 2011. History Gary Sinise’s Academy Award-­‐nominated role as double amputee, Lt. Dan, in the 1994 movie Forrest Gump, along with his volunteer and advocacy work for military and first responders led to his role as a spokesperson for several organizations. In 2011, he launched GSF to synthesize his various activities into a single organization. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Based on relationships veterans have with military hospitals. Gary Sinise hand-­‐selects veterans after careful review of their experiences and needs. Selected individuals include triple and quad amputees, individuals with severe TBI [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international: Builds houses based on where the veterans want to live; hosts Gary Sinise & the Lt. Dan Band concerts in those communities across the nation. Mission GSF serves the nation by honoring defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need by creating and supporting unique programs designed to entertain, educate, inspire, strengthen, and build communities. Goals GSF aims to fulfill its mission by: •
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Services for caregivers Helping veterans and their families as they adjust to life with injuries Educating communities on the needs of defenders, veterans, first responders, and military families Rallying community support, raising funds, and linking resources for service members, veterans, first responders, and military families. Common Caregiving Services Building for America’s Bravest (Helping Hand): GSF partnered with Tunnel to Towers to build custom smart-­‐
homes for severely wounded, paralyzed, or triple and quad amputees as part of the Building for America's Bravest initiative. Also as part of that initiative, GSF works with families to identify a location for the house and customize it to the veteran and the family. GSF also works with state governments to alleviate property taxes for the veterans and their families. Mode of Delivery: Housing assistance Veterans Court (Helping Hand): GSF also works with the Veterans Court for Combat Veterans in Orange County. As part of this involvement, the foundation gives veterans and their family members gas cards and grocery gift cards. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance Gary Sinise & the Lt. Dan Band (Structured Social Support): Gary Sinise is the lead of the Lt. Dan Band, a 12-­‐
man cover band that plays a wide range of popular songs from different eras. As part of the various GSF efforts, Gary Sinise & the Lt. Dan Band performs in each city where the Building for America’s Bravest builds a house for a veteran and his/her family. Invincible Spirit Festivals (Other): GSF Invincible Spirit Festivals are daylong celebrations that include concerts by the Lt. Dan Band, a fair-­‐like atmosphere for children, and a meal prepared by Celebrity Chef Robert Irvine. The Festivals take place on site at military medical hospitals and serve as respite for caregivers from their medical treatments and other day-­‐to-­‐day care activities. 77
Gary Sinise Foundation
Feature Description Arts and Entertainment Outreach (Other): Gary Sinise co-­‐founded the Steppenwolf Theatre Company in Chicago. GSF coordinates free dinners and shows of the final dress rehearsal of plays at Steppenwolf for veterans and their loved ones. GSF has just extended this program to include the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles, and the organization plans to expand its offerings to more theaters soon. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group and individual) Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: GSF regularly refers veterans to VA and partner organizations for services and health care. Referral Service for Caregiver: GSF also refers caregivers to various partner organizations for services and assistance to match the need with services offered. The foundation frequently refers caregivers who need financial assistance to TAPS and other organizations. Outreach activities GSF frequently puts on concerts with the Gary Sinise & the Lt. Dan Band to raise awareness and funds for the smart homes in the local community. GSF also has strong relationships with partner organizations and military hospitals that refer veterans to the organization and help with program outreach and dissemination. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 78
Give an Hour
Feature Description Website http://www.giveanhour.org Managing office N/A Origination date 2005 History Give an Hour was formed as a means to address the psychological needs among OEF/OIF service members, veterans, and their families. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Service members, veterans, and their families Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Give an Hour’s mission is to develop national networks of volunteers capable of responding to both acute and chronic conditions that arise within society. [Its] first target population is the U.S. troops and families affected by the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and other post-­‐9/11 conflicts. Give an Hour™ is asking mental health professionals nationwide to literally donate an hour of their time each week to provide free mental health services to military personnel and their families. Research will guide the development of additional services needed by the military community, and appropriate networks will be created to respond to those needs. Individuals who receive services will be given the opportunity to give an hour back in their own community. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Nonstandard Clinical Care [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] (Mental Health Care): Give an Hour provides counseling to individuals, couples, and families, including children and adolescents. Give an Hour’s network of providers offer treatment for anxiety, depression, substance abuse, PTSD, TBIs, sexual health and intimacy concerns, and loss and grieving. Providers are licensed mental health providers who agree to donate one hour of their time each week for at least one year. Give an Hour connects these providers with individuals in need of counseling. Mental Health Awareness (Other): In addition to direct counseling services, Give an Hour’s providers are working to reduce the stigma associated with mental health by participating in and leading education, training, and outreach efforts in schools and communities and around military bases. Outreach activities Give an Hour: •
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Tax Determination Status Develops collaborative relationships with the commanding officers of returning troops so that these officers are aware of and comfortable with their services provided Works closely with a number of veterans service organizations to promote their services directly to the family members of troops Collaborates with VA to distribute information about their services through Vet Centers across the country and to take referrals from their Veterans Crisis Line Collaborates with the Army National Guard Promotes their services to the military community and the public through a media campaign that includes print, television, and radio coverage. Nonprofit 79
Her War, Her Voice (HWHV)
Feature Description Website http://herwarhervoice.com/ Managing office N/A Origination date N/A History HWHV was started by a group of military spouses and a veteran in order to give a voice to military spouses, women who are connected to the military, and women who are veterans and service members. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Military spouses, women who are connected to the military, and women who are veterans and service members. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission N/A Goals Ensure no military spouse ever feels alone or without her voice Provide understanding and a space for others to thrive in military life. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Structured Social Support): HWHV offers structured social support through a number of activities, including caregiver retreats, online support groups, and book clubs. •
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Therapeutic Retreats: HWHV offers therapeutic retreats for military spouses and caregivers. Spouse Support Meetings: Courage Beyond the Battlefield spouse support meetings are held online on a weekly basis. Just Wait: Just Wait is an online forum for military spouses to read stories and view art created by other military spouses who thought about suicide and chose to wait. Online Support Groups: Free and confidential groups for spouses and led by spouses are available from partner NotAlone.com. Other social support activities like book clubs are arranged on a local level among military spouses and caregivers. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 80
Home Front Hearts
Feature Description Website http://www.HomeFrontHearts.org Managing office N/A Origination date 2008 History The founder and executive director, Randi Cairns, assisted her husband during his first deployment to meet the needs of children in Afghanistan. Home Front Hearts was an effort to collect and send supplies for the Army unit to distribute in the local Afghanistan community. Following her husband’s return from deployment, Cairns was challenged in her efforts to navigate the benefits and resources that her military family needed. Despite her background in nonprofit support, resources, and case management, she had a difficult time locating resources and felt the need to share what she learned with other military families. Home Front Hearts then transitioned to a stateside effort to help families navigate the available resources. Home Front Hearts initially started as a national effort, working with families in 20 states and establishing an online resource directory. In addition, care packages were assembled and distributed to troops. The organization then scaled down to become a local New Jersey–based organization serving the needs of families in that state. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Military families, particularly those not always covered by other organizations. Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach Local: New Jersey Mission The mission of Home Front Hearts is to serve the families that serve the country by: [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Providing support and resources to the families of service members Increasing public awareness of the struggles and sacrifices of military families Engaging both individuals and businesses in building communities that are responsive to the needs of these families. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Patient Advocacy): The organization makes referrals for resources and services for families. Referrals are warm handoffs to organizations that Home Front Hearts has an existing relationship with. Home Front Hearts will facilitate introductions between families and resources, and ensure that follow-­‐up steps are completed on both ends. Mode of Delivery: Phone (Helping Hand): Home Front Hearts provides direct in-­‐kind and helping-­‐hand assistance to military families based on individual circumstance and need. Examples of helping-­‐hand services provided include: employment resources, financial assistance, holiday help, case management assistance, and peer support. Financial assistance is designed to provide gap assistance for families and is available on an individual family basis. Mode of Delivery: Varies depending on the assistance needed 81
Home Front Hearts
Feature Description Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Home Front Hearts engages in community outreach and education, speaking with organizations in the community about the military family experience. Referral Service for Veteran: Referrals for service members and families are made on an individual basis. The organization seeks resources to meet the need of clients, and facilitates connections to those resources. Home Front Hearts also maintains an online resource directory. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities Home Front Hearts’ primary method of outreach is via word of mouth. The organization has also received media coverage. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 82
Home Instead Senior Care
Feature Description Website http://www.homeinstead.com http://www.caregiverstress.com Managing office National office located in Omaha, NE Home Instead has more than 100 independently owned and operated home care offices. Origination date 1994 History N/A Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Seniors and families caring for seniors Specific injury/illness No: However, Home Instead offers information and education about specific conditions, chiefly Alzheimer’s. Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission Home Instead provides care for seniors and the families caring for them. Family caregivers often do not recognize themselves as such; they often feel they are doing their duty as a child. Home Instead seeks to help families identify themselves as caregivers, especially if they are missing work or personal family time to care for a senior. The organization provides family caregivers with support and guidance by informing them about services available through Home Instead as well as other resources: providing referrals to other organizations, social support, and educational material about caregiver-­‐relevant topics (respite care, having proactive conversations with seniors, finances, fraud, chronic conditions, and protecting loved ones). Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver specific][Military incidental] (Respite Care): Home Instead provides respite for caregivers of seniors. Services provided include assistance with ADLs, medication and nutrition adherence, and companionship. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual) (Patient Advocacy): Home Instead works closely with families and providers at discharge to understand the care plan. Caregivers from Home Instead follow the care plan set in order to support that person. Mode of Delivery: Phone, Printed (Structured Social Support): This varies by individual franchise; however, some do offer caregiver support groups. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual and group), Phone (Structured Education/Training): Home Instead also offers free family caregiver classes/workshops, regardless of whether caregivers use Home Instead services. These classes provide tips and knowledge about common caregiving topics (e.g., communication). Each is independently owned and operated so there are variations. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group), Internet 83
Home Instead Senior Care
Feature Description Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Home Instead provides searchable online information including a video series, articles, and toolkits, in addition to the classes offered in person at Home Instead locations. Caregiverstress.com is a website offered by Home Instead that provides support and information for caregivers. The Caregiver Stress Relief program is located on this website. Through this web-­‐based program, individuals are able to take a quiz to aid in identifying themselves a caregiver. Caregivers can then also take a stress release assessment (distress assessment tool) where they are provided with resources based on their answers to questions. Referral Service for Caregiver: Home Instead offers referrals to other resources, including other personal care organizations, that may be of assistance to caregivers. Home Instead is a private, for-­‐profit organization that accepts long-­‐term care insurance but may not be accessible for all families. Recognizing this, the organization strives to provide information for families and caregivers by providing support and guidance on who to contact for their needs. The organization also operates a 24-­‐hour call line to provide support and resources to caregivers. This national call center is in addition to business and nonbusiness call support offered by independent franchise locations. The call center representatives often talk caregivers through their situation, ask them about their stressors, provide support, and then connect caregivers with local resources (Home Instead offices or others). Many callers are unaware that there is a local Home Instead office that offers free consultations. Calls often are made during crisis, but some callers are getting information for long-­‐term planning. In addition to the telephone support line, individuals may also submit questions online. Outreach activities The organization conducts outreach via three main avenues: Home Instead’s 1,000 offices on the ground, informing others of the services available in their community; press releases; and social media (Facebook, Twitter, blogs, and online forums where people can ask questions). Tax Determination Status For-­‐profit 84
Hope For The Warriors
Feature Description Website http://www.hopeforthewarriors.org Managing office Annandale, VA Origination date 2006 History Hope For The Warriors was founded by Marine Corps wives at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune following its first fundraising event, the Run For The Warriors. Each founder was a part of her husband’s support system during mass deployment. Following the injury of several Marines during deployment, the founders’ husbands recognized that while the injured returned home, their units were still deployed and these service members returned to empty barracks with no support or encouragement for their recovery. This started the conversation and planning on how to best care for the wounded when they returned. An idea for an ad hoc unit for these wounded Marines was then presented to Generals Amos and Dickerson, and that became the beginning of the wounded warrior regiment. It started as a battalion and then stood up as a regiment. Hope For The Warriors was founded as these wives recognized the need for education for both civilians and military commands about injuries and how they affected families. The vision of the organization was to unite families, communities, the military, and the corporate sector to help everyone understand the needs of service members and their families—not only the wounded population, but those who were constantly deployed. Hope For The Warriors focused on post-­‐9/11 combat-­‐injured service members, veterans, and their families. The organization started with two programs: A Warrior’s Wish® and spouse scholarships. A Warrior’s Wish® grants wishes to severely injured service members to restore hope—requests that would not be covered by VA or DoD. The second program, scholarships for spouses and caregivers, was designed to help individuals return to school. At the time of the program’s inception, there were not many resources for spouses and caregivers who were becoming the primary breadwinner for their families following service member injury. Hope For The Warriors addressed that gap by providing scholarships to spouses and extended it to caregivers as well (including parents). Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Post-­‐9/11 combat served, their families, and families of the fallen. Specific injury/illness No: However, the organization focuses on both physical and psychological injuries with a strong program focus on PTSD. Geographic reach National with local branches/offices: Active in the following locations: Brooklyn/Manhattan (also serving the entire state of New York); Camp Lejeune (supports the state of North Carolina); Virginia, both northern Virginia/Washington D.C. metro area, and Virginia Beach (supporting entire state of Virginia); Tampa; Dallas; Houston; El Paso (supporting state of Texas); Wyoming; Chicago (supports a large portion of Illinois); Iowa; and southern California. Mission The mission of Hope For The Warriors is to enhance the quality of life for post-­‐9/11 service members, their families, and families of the fallen who have sustained physical and psychological wounds in the line of duty. Hope For The Warriors is dedicated to restoring a sense of self, the family unit, and hope for service members and military families. Goals N/A [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] 85
Hope For The Warriors
Feature Description Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Respite Care): Hope For The Warriors has developed military wellness programs that allow family members to undergo therapy alongside service members in recovery at select facilities. Respite services are provided to these families at these locations. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group and individual) (Patient Advocacy): Hope For The Warriors employs four clinical social workers and has partnered with universities to provide field experience for master’s of social work students. The organization hosts five to seven students at any time. Students and clinical social workers provide patient advocacy with VA and DoD and also provide case management. All services are free of charge. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group and individual), Phone, Internet (Helping Hand): Financial assistance is provided to service members and families on an individual basis and following assessment by the critical care team. Case managers provide intake assessment services and needs are assessed. Financial assistance is provided in addition to financial advocacy services. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance (Structured Social Support): Hope For The Warriors has offices at major medical centers that provide social support services for spouses and caregivers, including support luncheons and caregiver retreats. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) (Structured Wellness Activities): Hope For The Warriors provides art therapy, yoga, and fitness opportunities for spouses and caregivers. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Nonstandard Clinical Care (Mental Health Care): Hope For The Warriors provides mental health counseling nationwide for service members, veterans and families. Additional services for spouses are also available to help cope with PTSD. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: There are resources for families and caregivers on the Hope For The Warriors website. In addition, caseworkers and intake team members are trained to provide resources to families (including local resources). Referral Service for Veteran: Hope For The Warriors provides in-­‐person, Web-­‐based, and telephone referral assistance to veterans and caregivers. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities Hope For The Warriors conducts nationwide outreach through various channels, including their website, social media sites, press releases, PSAs, and celebrity spokespersons. Within individual communities, Hope For The Warriors conducts outreach through community outreach events, as well as through their relationships with military commands, VA caseworkers, and community groups. The organization has metrics to demonstrate their success and relies upon these statistics to further promote the work. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 86
Hospice Foundation of America
Feature Description Website http://www.hospicefoundation.org Managing office N/A Origination date 1982 History Hospice Foundation of America started in Florida as a foundation that would serve that state. In 1990, as the hospice movement grew in the United States, the Foundation’s mission expanded to meet the nation’s educational and awareness needs. It is a 501(c)3 educational foundation and provides programming through various mediums for professionals (continuing education) and the public for their enlightenment and to increase awareness about hospice and its place on the continuum of care. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Professionals (clinicians who work in various acute, long term and end-­‐of-­‐life care settings) and the general public Note: HFA has developed and run programs specifically for caregivers. Additionally, when HFA provides programs, caregivers are always included because professional and nonprofessional caregivers are an integral part of the end of life experience. [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Specific injury/illness No: HFA recognizes the demand for information around specific health issues, and has implemented programs and published books on such topics as Alzheimer’s care at end of life, cancer and end-­‐of-­‐life care, coping with loss after sudden death, coping with loss after prolonged illness, coping with public trauma/tragedy, grief in the workplace, school, and place of worship, and other subjects. Each of HFA’s two major annual programs is topical. In addition, the annual programs and online materials and webinars cover general and more specific topic issues (e.g. ethics at end of life, illness/disease, part of the care continuum, or population). Geographic reach National or international Mission Hospice Foundation of America provides leadership in the development and application of hospice and its philosophy of care with the goal of enhancing the U.S. health care system and the role of hospice within it. Goals HFA works to •
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Services for caregivers Raise awareness of hospice care Promote hospice care and education professionals who are involved in end-­‐of-­‐life care (hospice, palliative, hospital, LTC, or any other setting). Common Caregiving Services (Structured Education/Training): Hospice Foundation of America has been providing annual professional and public education programs for 20 years. They originally were offered via satellite, then on DVD, and eventually via webcast. Most of the annual programs offer a published companion book. The current program focuses on improving care for veterans facing illness and death. Both the video program and the book may serve as resources for professional caregivers (clinician) or the family of a service member or veteran who is receiving care. The continuing education webinars last roughly one and a half hours. Previously, they were offered in incrementally spaced series; however, the organization is restructuring the series to offer webinars on a more frequent basis. There are two major professional education programs each year. Each program is topical. One is always distributed in the spring and has two and a half hours of content that originates from HFA (Washington, D.C.); local sites that participate (e.g., hospice, hospital, or doctor’s office) are also required to have 30 minutes of local discussion. It is a networking and education opportunity on the local level. Typically, community members are also invited and sites can make it an event that extends beyond the minimum time requirement. 87
Hospice Foundation of America
Feature Description HFA also has an annual fall program that lasts two hours. Like the spring program, it is designed to provide the information needed to satisfy the various boards that accredit the program for continuing education, but it is not so technical that a nonprofessional can’t benefit, which is why community members attend either of the programs. HFA also publishes companion books for nearly every program that may be purchased from the HFA website. •
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Veteran and service member book. This is 20 chapters and covers (generally): the military experience and understanding the military culture in the context of delivering hospice care; special issues in treating veterans; coping with trauma and PTSD at life’s end; special issues in pain management; caring for seriously ill veterans in the community; collaboration and coordination of care; grief and loss; clinical perspective on combat death; and survivors. The veteran and service member video. This contains content similar to the book. There are first-­‐
person interviews with experts and veterans, including a Vietnam veteran whose life was profoundly affected by PTSD who was candid with sharing his experience and who is currently receiving hospice care. The video also covers families and clinicians and the meaning and importance of military honors at funerals. HFA also developed and provides professional education programming for the funeral industry. All public information webinars are available free of charge on the HFA website. Professional education webinars are available for a small fee. In 2009, HFA received a grant from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to increase public awareness of hospice care, and produced several informational videos, audio programs, and printed materials aimed at the public and presented in different languages. These are available on demand through the website and HFA’s YouTube channel, and on DVD. There are also audio programs and interviews. All can be easily accessed through the hospice information center portion of HFA’s website, which also includes printed material in various languages. Mode of Delivery: Internet, Printed, DVD Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: HFA operates a companion website, http://www.hospicedirectory.org. It is a searchable database of hospice providers in particular geographic areas. It doesn’t favor one over another but lists them with the best and most current information provided. Hospice organizations can request to be listed and HFA does research to locate organizations to add to the directory. HFA also offers a subscription-­‐based publication that is expressly for people grieving a loss or who want to support someone grieving a loss. These are monthly publications that offer information, help, and guidance for people in the grief/loss arena. There are also special editions of the publication aimed at specific circumstances or interests (grief during the holidays, newly bereaved, grieving children, etc.). Referral Service for Veteran: HFA allows professionals, patients, and caregivers to submit questions. The questions are fielded by appropriate resources that can explain topics or benefits in further detail. Representatives from HFA also provide information about available resources and provide nonlegal and nonmedical information. Outreach activities Much of the outreach is done through branding embedded within the programming and publications that HFA provides. For example, when a program is shown at 750 sites and there is an average of ten people per site, then 7,500 people have seen the brand and learned about the organization. HFA printed material is also branded. The organization does a modest amount of advertising when possible. In addition, HFA participates in the combined federal campaign. Finally, through the relationships of HFA staff, consultants, board members, and supports, the organization is exposed to networks of other professionals, businesses, and organizations. 88
Hospice Foundation of America
Feature Description HFA regularly communicates with constituents via two large email blasts. One is eNews, which operates via free subscription. Constituents opt in to receiving this monthly email about current offerings from HFA, upcoming programs and projects, and relevant news. The constituents for this email tend to be management personnel and attendees to previous programs from provider organizations, in addition to individuals who are interested in keeping abreast of HFA activities. The second email list consists of site coordinators from the viewing sites and is the point of distribution for HFA professional continuing education programs. Emails are sent to site coordinators about future programs under development, and specific instructions or information regarding current programming. Additionally, HFA has a broad online presence, including a blog, Facebook, Twitter and Linked In pages, and all HFA-­‐produced materials direct the reader/viewer/listener to HFA’s website. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 89
Impact a Hero
Feature Description Website http://impactahero.org/ Managing office Impact Player Partners Origination date 2004 History The company’s founder, Dick Lynch, watched service members return home from the War on Terror with serious physical and emotional wounds and felt a need to help them with their new life challenges and situations. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Severely wounded, ill, or injured service members or veterans who served in post-­‐
9/11 combat (Afghanistan or Iraq), and their families. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Impact a Hero provides immediate and ongoing emotional and financial support for severely wounded post-­‐
9/11 combat veterans and their families. Under the official nonprofit entity Impact Player Partners, Impact a Hero gives individuals and corporations a simple mechanism for providing maximum impact to those who have sacrificed for the nation’s freedoms. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Financial Grants (Helping Hand): Impact a Hero offers financial grants to service members, veterans, or their family members who complete a grant application and pass a background check. Grants can be used for a range of everyday expenses. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance Opening Day with the Reds (Social Support): Impact a Hero convenes wounded, ill, or injured veterans and service members and their families each year at the opening day home game of the Cincinnati Reds. The event includes a caregiver workshop, led by a veteran and his wife telling their story, that enables spouses and caregivers to talk amongst themselves and bond. The event is followed by a free manicure and pedicure for military wives and female caregivers, offered during the Impact a Hero Weekend. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Impact a Hero Weekend (Other): Each year, Impact a Hero holds a three-­‐day fundraiser consisting of a 5K race, Hall of Fame gala (including an auction) and golf tournament. The events are held in the greater Houston area, with the 5K and gala held at Reliant Stadium. It is the primary fundraiser for the organization, which arranges and pays for travel, lodging, and meals of veterans and their families from across the country. Outreach activities Impact a Hero relies on contacts at DoD hospitals, word of mouth, and social media such as Facebook and Twitter. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 90
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA)
Feature Description Website http://www.iava.org Managing office N/A Origination date 2004 History IAVA was founded by Paul Rieckhoff—an Iraq War veteran—to advocate on behalf of veterans and to help them get the support they need for a successful transition and reestablish a peer community at home. IAVA’s original focus was to raise awareness about the basic needs of troops in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. As veterans transitioned home and their needs and challenges shifted, IAVA shifted too. Rather than a brick-­‐and-­‐mortar approach, IAVA builds community and provides support online and in veterans’ own communities. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: In the process of making changes to its membership criteria. Core membership is currently OIF/OEF/OND veterans who have deployed to an area of responsibility. Family members and friends of the veterans are often invited to attend events hosted by IAVA, and are able to use some program tools (such as its New GI Bill Calculator, or case management services for families in New York and California) but the ability for family and friends of veterans to engage on a sustained basis is limited. New model offers tiers of membership that allow additional groups—such as spouses and family members, nondeployed veterans, veterans of other eras, and civilian supports—to be a more active part of the community. For example, the organization will have community-­‐based squad leaders across the country that will convene and engage individuals under the IAVA banner on a regular basis; e.g., for social or service events. Squad leaders may be veterans, or civilian supporters. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission The mission of IAVA is to support veterans and their families from the moment of transition through the rest of their lives. The core of IAVA’s mission is to rebuild the sense of community that can be lost when veterans transition home. The organization uses online and offline engagement to help rebuild that sense of community and connect veterans with new peers. Additionally, IAVA connects veterans and their families to resources, benefits, and opportunities to improve their quality of life and make their transition easier. The primary areas of focus include: mental health, education, and employment. Goals N/A 91
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA)
Feature Description Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Patient Advocacy): IAVA’s case management and referral services program is operational in New York and California. Case managers connect veterans with resources and benefits to help in their transition, and provide referrals to veterans and assist them with navigating the system of resources. IAVA provides referrals for: employment, education, legal aid, financial resources, health and mental health care, and housing. IAVA leverages its existing partnerships to connect veterans with services provided by those organizations. For instance, IAVA partners with an organization that provides online mental health support to veterans. In addition, IAVA has its own online peer-­‐to-­‐peer support community available to confirmed veterans where they are able to openly share and discuss their experiences. Mode of Delivery: Internet, Phone Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: IAVA hosts a blog on their website with daily news briefs and other information. Referral Service for Veteran: Referrals for veterans and their families are made via IAVA’s case management and referral program (specific to New York and California). IAVA also has a resource list on its website. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities IAVA has been active through social media and through the media presence of CEO Rieckhoff. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit Email and word of mouth continue to be a large part of the organization’s outreach strategy, but IAVA is shifting to a model of network-­‐based organizing and member-­‐led engagement. 92
Jordan’s Initiative
Feature Description Website http://www.jordansinitiative.com Managing office N/A Origination date 2008 History Jordan’s Initiative is a memorial foundation established to honor the memory and heroism of LCpl Jordan Christian Haerter by providing support to currently deployed troops and veterans and their families. Haerter was killed in April 2008 by a vehicle-­‐borne IED in Ramadi, Iraq. Jordan's Initiative was established by Jordan's dad, Christian Haerter, and his partner, Michelle Severance, as a way to honor his life and as a way to keep his spirit and compassionate heart alive through charitable works within the community. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: N/A Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Jordan’s Initiative seeks to provide direct support and aid to members of the armed services and their families in times of need. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] (Helping Hand): Jordan's Initiative offers aid to families in the form of a food gift card, a mortgage payment, help in paying household expenses, or direct monetary aid. Operation: Garden Rescue (Other): Jordan’s Initiative provides chosen military veterans and currently deployed service members with a full service lawn and garden makeover and one year of free lawn maintenance and snow plowing. This program is specific to the Sag Harbor, New York area. Wash For Our Warriors (Other): Through the generosity of the Comber family, who own the Sag Harbor Launderette, one local veteran per month is chosen to receive "drop off, wash and fold" laundry services at no charge. This program is specific to the Sag Harbor, New York area. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 93
Lotsa Helping Hands
Feature Website Managing office Origination date History Target population(s) Description http://www.lotsahelpinghands.com N/A 2008 Lotsa Helping Hands was inspired by one of its founder’s experiences as a caregiver; development was guided by the belief that communities could better support individual caregivers through the use of technology. General eligibility criteria: Available to anyone with Internet access. Often, friends and family members close to the caregiver create the community. [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Lotsa Helping Hands powers online caring communities that help restore health and balance to caregivers’ lives. The service brings together caregivers and volunteers through online communities that organize daily life during times of medical crisis or caregiver exhaustion in neighborhoods and communities worldwide. Caregivers benefit from the gifts of much-­‐needed help, emotional support, and peace of mind, while volunteers find meaning in giving back to those in need. Goals Empower caregivers. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Structured Social Support): Lotsa Helping Hands offers a free online service enabling caregivers to connect with their support networks in times of need. Caregivers (or those wishing to support a caregiver) register with the website to create their own online community. These communities revolve around a web-­‐based calendar where caregivers can specify exactly what they need and when they need it. Caregiver needs vary widely and include such things as rides to appointments, meals, or assistance with child care. The website also offers community-­‐building features such as photo and message board. Caregivers use these features to keep their online community updated. In some instances, service members or veterans themselves may participate in the online communities from afar—for example, while deployed. Caregivers can limit community access to invited individuals only, and can assign these individuals different levels of permission to web content. Caregivers can also opt for their online community to be searchable by the general public (e.g., based on ZIP code), thus enabling other potential volunteers to assist them. Mode of Delivery: Internet Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Lotsa Helping Hands offers tips and information for caregivers through its website, convenes monthly webinars, and publishes a monthly online newsletter. Referral Service for Veteran: The organization maintains an online resource directory for caregivers and their loved ones. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans Outreach activities Lotsa Helping Hands maintains relationships with more than 50 nonprofit organizations, which cross reference and refer constituents/participants to one another. The organization also utilizes social media (e.g., Facebook) and maintains a presence at various conferences and events. Tax Determination Status For-­‐profit 94
Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Regiment (WWR)
Feature Description Website http://www.woundedwarriorregiment.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2007 History As an independent command serving a distinct population, the Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Regiment was established to provide and enable assistance to wounded, ill, and injured Marines and their family members throughout the phases of recovery and return to duty or transition to civilian life. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Wounded, ill, or injured Marines and their family members or caregivers. The WWR assigns RCCs to Marines requiring complex care coordination services. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The mission of the WWR is to provide and facilitate nonmedical care to combat-­‐ and noncombat-­‐wounded, ill, and injured Marines, and sailors attached to or in direct support of Marine units, and their family members, in order to assist them as they return to duty or transition to civilian life. Goals WWR’s FY14-­‐FY15 Strategic Goals are as follows: •
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Services for caregivers Continue superior recovery care for wounded, ill, and injured Marines and their families in times of war and peace. Enable all Marine Corps Commanders to provide wounded, ill, and injured Marines recovery care support that is based on assessed needs. Enhance transition support. Facilitate comprehensive health care access and treatment options for wounded, ill, and injured Marines with emphasis on psychological health, traumatic brain injuries, and emerging therapies. Strengthen outreach and education to Marine Corps Commanders, wounded, ill, and injured Marines and their families, and the general public. Common Caregiving Services RCCs (Patient Advocacy): The RCC program resides within the WWR. RCCs serve as the wounded, ill, or injured Marine’s point of contact to help them define and meet their individual goals for recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration. An RCC’s primary responsibilities include: •
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Working with the Marine and family to develop a Comprehensive Recovery Plan. Identifying needs and defining the Marine’s goals for recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration. Locating and educating Marines and their family/caregivers on services and resources available to them. Minimizing delays and gaps in treatment and services, including during the IDES process. Supplying information on benefits and compensation, legal resources, financial counseling and support. Coordinating with Section Leaders to ensure Marines successfully reach recovery and transition goals. Participating in Recovery Team Meetings to improve team coordination and delivery of care. Coordinating with the Department of Veterans Affairs Federal Recovery Coordinator on catastrophic Marines’ cases. RCCs view the caregiver or family member as an integral part of the planning and recovery process. 95
Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Regiment (WWR)
Feature Description Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group and individual), Phone Travel Assistance (Helping Hand): WWR arranges for ITA Orders and NMA assistance. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance SCAADL (Financial Stipend): SCAADL is issued and dispersed to Marines through the WWR. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance Wounded Warrior Battalion Family Days (Structured Social Support): Provides the Battalion Commanders the opportunity to pass information and for families to meet staff and other caregivers. Peer Mentorship (Structured Social Support): RCCs will routinely couple a new caregiver with a more seasoned caregiver as a peer mentor. The peer mentor will assist with practical things such as taking the new caregiver to the grocery store, showing them how to access public transportation, and getting them enrolled in the local gym. Spouse and Caregiver Support Groups (Structured Social Support): WWR sponsors regular support groups for spouses and caregivers at military installations such as Camp Lejeune and Camp Pendleton. A WWR-­‐sponsored social support group is also available through the WWR Facebook page. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group), Internet Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: The WWR assists wounded, ill, or injured Marines and their families in identifying a wide range of nonmedical services, such as educational assistance, employment training, benefits assistance, and child care. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. The WWR also utilizes several OSD Warrior and Care Policy produced resources such as the National Resource Directory and the Caregiver Pocket Guide to provide resource and referral support for caregivers of wounded, ill, and injured Marines. Outreach activities Any seriously wounded, ill, or injured Marine is assessed to determine whether support is needed from the WWR/RCCs. Family members or caregivers are contacted by the WWR/RCCs with authorization from the Marine. Tax Determination Status Government: U.S. Marine Corps contract 96
MarineParents.com
Feature Description Website http://www.marineparents.com/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2003 History The website MarineParents.com, Inc., offers education and support for parents, spouses, family, and friends of U.S. Marines. Education and support is available for each stage of the Marine Corps, including boot camp, training, active duty, deployments, and transitioning out of the Marine Corps. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Marines and their families Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission MarineParents.com, Inc., provides information and services for Marines and their families, OPSEC-­‐compliant websites and networking, and support for the troops through multiple outreach programs. Goals Information: Provide reliable resources and information about the U.S. Marine Corps. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Connect and share: Provide recruit and Marine family members a place to connect and share in support of one another. Troop and family support: Provide opportunities to support the troops and their families through a multitude of outreach programs. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Structured Social Support): Support for family and friends of U.S. Marines is offered through the website’s trademark in a Place to Connect & Share, which includes live support, email support, chat rooms and message board communities. Both the chat rooms and message boards are moderated for safety and to assure compliance with OPSEC (Operational Security). Purple Heart Hero Support™ is a first-­‐response effort improving the quality of recovery for Purple Heart service members and their families by offering immediate support, care, and guidance upon casualty notification through recovery and beyond medical retirement. The program offers a private, online forum and a learning center for Purple Heart families, and serves meals to Balboa and Bethesda Naval Medical Centers when cafeterias are closed over the weekend. (Religious Support): Operation Prayers and Letters is a project that supports Marines who have been injured. It works with families to set up a private mailing address for the injured Marine. People, church groups, and school children around the United States add these Marines to prayer lists, as well as write cards and letters for the Marines, which are forwarded in bulk envelopes. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Unit Information Database: Every Marine is assigned to a unit or battalion in the Marine Corps. Often, finding information about that particular unit can be challenging. MarineParents.com database includes virtually every unit in the Marine Corps and includes base locations, current station, phone numbers, the unit Family Readiness Officer (a contact for family members), and links to the unit’s message boards and chat night schedule. Referral Service for Caregiver: To help users find a Place to Connect & Share with one another in their own hometowns, MarineParents.com offers a database of U.S. support groups and meeting times. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 97
MBP Consulting, LLC
Feature Description Website http://mbpconsultingllc.net/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2009 History Mary Brintnall-­‐Peterson’s passion for family caregiving led to the creation of MBP Consulting, LLC. During a 30-­‐year career with the University of Wisconsin-­‐Extension, Mary developed a national reputation as a visionary in the field of family caregiving. Since then, she has served as a consultant to health care providers, social service agencies, community coalitions, military personnel, university educators, and others who interact with family caregivers. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: N/A Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The mission of MBP Consulting is to help caregivers provide better care, and to educate caregivers so they can understand how the caregiver role affects their physical and psychological health. [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Using research-­‐based information, MBP Consulting, LLC educates professionals and family caregivers via printed articles, webinars, and in-­‐person workshops. Recent consultation with military family caregiver organizations is a part of an increasing effort to tailor services that aid the unique burdens of caregivers for our nation's wounded warriors.. Goals Distinguish, teach, and understand different forms of communication, and the types of situations they are best used in. Help caregivers identify situations where one of the communication skills could be used. Prepare to use one of the communication skills in a conversation they need or want to have in the near future. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Structured Education/Training): MBP Consulting tailors educational programs about and for family caregiving and the organizations that support them. It also has developed a web-­‐based online workshop for military family caregivers called Navigating Your ‘New Normal’ as a Caregiver. MBP Consulting visited six military bases (Bliss, Bragg, Sam Houston, Stewart, Hood, and Joint Base Lewis-­‐
McChord) to gather information about military and community resources that Soldier Family Assistance Center (SFAC) staff will access while using an adapted TRICARE® needs assessment for wounded warriors. MBP hosted community meetings during each fort visit and seeks to enhance partnerships between the SFAC staff and community providers of caregiver services. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual), Internet, Print Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: MBP Consulting creates educational materials—including scholarly articles, online learning courses, and fact sheets—for family caregivers and organizations that interact with family caregivers. MBP Consulting is developing a web-­‐based database of select educational materials (fact sheets, videos, and online courses) to support licensed TRICARE® care managers when working with family caregivers. A policy group is currently guiding the database’s creation. 98
MBP Consulting, LLC
Feature Description The organization is also developing lists of community resources for SFAC staff to use in matching caregiver needs, identified through the TRICARE® assessment process, to local resources. Outreach activities N/A Tax Determination Status For-­‐profit 99
Mercy Medical Airlift and the Air Compassion for Veterans program
Feature Description Website http://mercymedical.org/ Managing office Mercy Medical Airlift is the parent organization for the Air Compassion for Veterans program, Air Compassion America, and the National Patient Travel Center. Origination date 1972 History Air Compassion for Veterans is funded by the California Community Foundation Iraq and Afghanistan Deployment Fund. It collaborates with VA frequently, but seeks to meet the broader medical transportation needs of veterans. American Airlines funds about half of the transportation costs. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Veterans, families, and caregivers Note: If a family member or caregiver is a necessary part of a veterans’s transportation, then Air Compassion for Veterans funds their transportation as well, and interprets “medically related” broadly and covers treatment and activities such as adaptive sports, rehabilitation and renewal, and reintegration facilitators. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission While some organizations offer transportation services for veterans to and from VA hospitals, many times they need transportation to places other than VA facilities. For this reason, Air Compassion for Veterans seeks to meet these broader needs, offering transportation to a range of treatments and services. Air Compassion for Veterans serves to ensure that no financially stressed wounded warrior, veteran, or adversely affected family member is denied access to: •
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Distant, specialized medical evaluation Diagnosis Treatment Counseling Rehabilitation Healing and restorative programs Programs assisting with reintegration into a productive life. Goals Air Compassion for Veterans’ goals in helping veterans reach the services and treatment that they need is to offer access to transportation for veterans and their families and caregivers via airline tickets and ground transportation, including train and bus tickets as well as gas cards for veterans and/or their caregivers to drive themselves. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Outreach activities Most referrals to Air Compassion for Veterans come from veterans’ service organizations, adaptive sports organizations, VA, and American Airlines. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit (Helping Hand): Air Compassion for Veterans provides transportation assistance to wounded warriors and their families seeking specialized evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. Assistance includes paid airline tickets, payment for ground transportation, and gas cards. Mode of Delivery: Transportation assistance 100
MHN Government Services’ Military & Family Life Consultant (MFLC) and
Joint Family Support Assistance Program (JFSAP)
Feature Description Website https://www.mhngs.com/app/programsandservices/mflc_program.content Origination date MFLC founded in 2004; JFSAP founded in 2007 History Around 2004, the DoD was seeking support services that could complement existing military behavioral health programs to support service members and their families struggling under the effects of extended and repeated deployments due to the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. MHN Government Services’ pilot solution to DoD’s challenge ultimately became the MFLC support program. In 2004, as tasked by DoD, MHN Government Services sent a team of 20 consultants to Germany. The MFLC’s mission was to augment existing support to active military troops and their families through the provision of nonmedical counseling services geared toward short-­‐term problem resolution. In April 2007, after successful completion of the two-­‐year pilot, MHN Government Services was awarded the first MFLC contract to implement a fully mature program. During this period, the MFLC Program grew to include additional services and outreach capabilities: JFSAP, the Child and Youth Services (CYS) and the Schools Programs, the Independent Ready Reserve (IRR) Call Center Program, the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Program, and the US Army Recruiting Command. This expansion brought MFLC to service members and their families where it was needed most. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: N/A Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission N/A Goals MFLC is a DoD initiative featuring solution-­‐focused consultations; members and/or families may have up to 12 visits. Licensed clinical counselors are assigned to military bases to work with patients to provide nonmedical problem identification counseling services. Nonmedical counseling services include anger management, conflict resolution, parenting, relationship issues, homesickness, deployment stress, and decisionmaking skills. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] MHN Government Services provides short-­‐term, nonmedical counseling to service members and their families through MFLC to augment existing military support programs worldwide. Licensed clinical providers assist service members and their families with issues they may face through the cycle of deployment—from leaving their loved ones and possibly living and working in harm's way to reintegrating with their community and family. MFLC provides support for a range of other issues as well. Psychoeducational presentations on reunion/reintegration, stress/coping, grief/loss and deployment are provided to commands, Family Readiness Groups, Soldier Readiness Processing and other requested locations. MFLC support is also provided to the Child and Youth Program and specifically for the summer enrichment program. MFLC has grown to include additional services and outreach capabilities: JFSAP, the Personal Financial Counseling Program, the IRR Call Center Program, Child & Youth Services Program, and Victim Advocacy Services. By expanding to include these programs, MFLC consultants provide a comprehensive spectrum of behavioral health support to military service members and their families. 101
MHN Government Services’ Military & Family Life Consultant (MFLC) and
Joint Family Support Assistance Program (JFSAP)
Feature Description Services for caregivers Nonstandard Clinical Care (Mental Health Care): Military & Family Life Consultants are licensed clinical counselors assigned to military bases to work with families, individuals, couples, and children to provide nonmedical problem identification counseling services. Nonmedical counseling services include anger management, conflict resolution, parenting, relationship issues, homesickness, deployment stress and decision-­‐making skills. The Joint Family Support Assistance Program (JFSAP), brings family services to families who are geographically dispersed from a military installation and who might otherwise be unable to access much needed support. The DoD's goals for the JFSAP include: •
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Creating a high-­‐tech, high-­‐touch web-­‐enabled community to connect military families with each other and with supportive resources around the clock Increasing availability of resources for family members Increasing awareness of active/Guard/reserve members and families of existing services Informing leadership and service providers about the range of available programs and services, and how they may be accessed Providing child development resources and referral services Sponsoring volunteers and family support professionals Assessing the need for enhanced support Integrating services and programs into a comprehensive delivery system that responds to members and families at all stages of the deployment cycle Through the JFSAP, MHN MFLCs bring the behavioral health support services provided through the MFLC program to geographically dispersed Active Duty, Guard and reserve family members who might otherwise be unable to access such support. Tax Determination Status Government: Contract 102
Military Child Education Coalition
Feature Description Website http://www.militarychild.org/ Origination date MCEC was founded in 1998. History Since its inception, MCEC has served military children in a number of ways. When first created, its main aim was to facilitate partnerships between military installations and the nearby school districts. Over time, the organization’s mission has expanded to include training for parents on caring for military children and their needs. In 2013, the Elizabeth Dole Foundation awarded an Innovation Grant to MCEC to implement the Let’s Chat program, which will use MCEC’s existing training staff and distribution capacity to provide training to caregiver parents on how to effectively support the growth and development of their children, some of whom are caregivers themselves. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Military-­‐connected children. Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission MCEC seeks to ensure inclusive, quality, educational experiences for all military-­‐connected children affected by mobility, family separation, and transition. Goals To achieve its mission, MCEC aims to achieve the following goals: [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] •
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Services for caregivers Offer military children responsive and relevant support systems, resources, and products Increase outreach through engagement, advocacy, and partnerships Implement a strategic communications plan Create a strong, sustainable, and financially sound organization. Common Caregiving Services Let’s Chat (Structured Education/Training): MCEC’s Let’s Chat Series train military caregivers who are also parents on how to effectively support the growth and development of their children through using guided questions and opening the lines of communication. MCEC’s Let’s Chat Series has four presentations: •
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Let’s Chat About School Success Let’s Chat About A Better Tomorrow (for younger children) Let’s Chat About the Plugged In Generation Let’s Chat about Organizing the Important Stuff. The trainings are focused on different aspects of caregiver parenting. For example, Let’s Chat About School Success discusses the importance of caregiving parents establishing a line of communication with their child’s schools. The training covers strategies for discussing difficult topics with a teacher, maximizing the results of parent-­‐teacher conferences, and overcoming homework challenges. The training workshops include information about resources for children at major military hospitals, wounded warrior units, and local schools. VA Caregiver Training (Structured Education/Training): MCEC is preparing to launch a caregiver training program with VA through a traditional train the trainer model. MCEC will train VA staff who will then implement the training to caregivers. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group), Internet 103
Military Child Education Coalition
Feature Description Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Information Source: MCEC’s trainings and website provide service members, veterans, their families and caregivers with information and links to national, state and local services and resources. Outreach activities MCEC promotes Let’s Chat through other organizations, advertisements, and referrals from organizations that work with military caregivers, such as VA and Hearts of Valor. MCEC also advertises Let’s Chat through its own website and on its social media sites. In addition, a Fellow from the Elizabeth Dole Foundation is working on Let’s Chat, and she helps promote the program by disseminating information to her many colleagues at various caregiver organizations. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 104
Military Officers Association of America (MOAA)
Feature Description Website http://www.moaa.org/ Origination date 1929 History Since its inception, MOAA has had an enduring commitment to serving the military community. MOAA is partnering with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, the ABA, United Services Automobile Association Educational Foundation (USAA Educational Foundation), the Public Counsel Law Center, and several additional organizations to create an online financial and legal guide for caregivers. MOAA’s contribution to the guide is one more manifestation of the organization’s commitment to serving the military community in its various needs. MOAA membership is open to active-­‐duty, National Guard, Reserve, retired and former commissioned officers and warrant officers of the following uniformed services: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Public Health Service, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. MOAA has a membership base of more than 380,000 members, and the organization is the country's largest military officers' association. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Active-­‐duty, former, retired, Reserve and National Guard commissioned and warrant officers and cadets and midshipmen of the uniformed services—Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Public Health Service, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration—and their surviving spouses. Auxiliary membership is available for surviving spouses of eligible officers. [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission MOAA’s mission is to represent the interests of military officers and military families during each stage of their lives and careers. Goals MOAA's goals and services include: •
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Career transition assistance Improved member products Military benefits counseling Educational assistance to children of military families (including enlisted) Assistance with veterans disability claims Strong involvement in military professionalism activities. MOAA’s goal in creating the online caregiver guide is to assist multiple generations of caregivers in finding financial, legal, and other information and resources for services available to them and the service member or veteran they care for in a clear and easy-­‐to-­‐use manual. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Structured Education/Training): The Elizabeth Dole Foundation, MOAA, ABA, USAA Educational Foundation, the Public Counsel Law Center and several additional organizations have collaborated to create the caregiver guide. Tips for Lifelong Caregiving is an online tool aimed at assisting caregivers of wounded, ill, and injured service members and veterans from multiple generations with financial, legal, and other issues affecting their lives and well-­‐being. 105
Military Officers Association of America (MOAA)
Feature Description The caregiver guide covers the following topics: •
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Medical-­‐disability insurance and benefits programs, including DoD, VA, Medicare-­‐Medicaid, Social Security, caregiver support, aid and attendance, in-­‐home and nursing care, and retirement and survivor programs Guardianship and fiduciary matters Powers of attorney Advance directives Legal pro-­‐bono services and resources Wills Financial-­‐estate planning The caregiver guide will be available to the public and will refer military caregivers to existing programs sponsored by the Dole Foundation, DoD, VA, and other agencies and individuals supporting caregivers. The manual will be updated regularly to reflect accurate guidance on legal and financial issues as policies and laws change. Mode of Delivery: Internet Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: MOAA refers veterans to a number of organizations and resources. Referral Service for Caregiver: The caregiver guide provides links to a number of caregiver organizations and resources. Outreach activities MOAA and the Elizabeth Dole Foundation have put out press releases to let caregivers, caregiver organizations, and the public know that the guide is in development. MOAA, the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, ABA, Public Counsel Law Center and the USAA Educational Foundation have also engaged many caregiver organizations, as well as experienced caregivers to solicit their input in the guide. These organizations will assist in dissemination of the guide. In addition, MOAA has a strong presence on social media that the organization will use to disseminate information about the guide to members. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 106
Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH)
Feature Description Website http://www.purpleheart.org/ Origination date 1932 History MOPH is a veterans service organization chartered by Congress. MOPH members are composed exclusively of Purple Heart recipients. MOPH is the only veterans’ service organization composed strictly of veterans who were injured in combat. MOPH was first formed to provide funding, rehabilitation, and other services for Purple Heart veterans, but has expanded to include a range of services for combat-­‐injured veterans and a Ladies Auxiliary of the MOPH. Wives, mothers, daughters, stepdaughters and adopted daughters of Purple Heart recipients are eligible to belong to the Ladies' Auxiliary of the MOPH, which also does important work nationally and locally in veterans' hospitals. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Exclusively offered for recipients of the Purple Heart decoration, with good moral character who are honorably discharged. Note: MOPH provides services to all veterans, their family members, and the family members of deceased veterans who ask MOPH for assistance. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission MOPH’s mission is to foster an environment of goodwill and camaraderie among combat-­‐wounded veterans, promote patriotism, support necessary legislative initiatives, and provide service to all veterans and their families. Goals To achieve its mission, MOPH aims at the following goals: •
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Services for caregivers Provide assistance to veterans (irrespective of Purple Heart status), their dependents, widows, and orphans Process veterans' claims for compensation, pension, medical care, education, vocational training, employment, veteran’s preference, housing, death, and burial benefits Serve on President's Committee for employment of people with disabilities Provide services for and assist in the identification of homeless veterans. Represent veterans whose benefits have been denied at the local VA regional office Present veterans' claims before the Court of Veterans Appeals. Common Caregiving Services (Structured Social Support): The Ladies' Auxiliary of the MOPH in each MOPH chapter conducts local activities, which range from events to honor veterans to social outings such as group dinners and coffee. Mode of Delivery: Face-­‐to-­‐face (group), Internet (Other): MOPH provides assistance to veterans and their families in submitting claims for benefits to VA. Caregivers often help veterans with disability compensation and benefits assistance. In addition, MOPH helps caregivers obtain their benefits from VA, including caregiver and education benefits. 107
Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH)
Feature Description Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: MOPH is proactive in assisting homeless veterans and ensuring that they are referred to VA and other organizations that can help them. Referral Service for Caregiver: MOPH refers caregivers to VA, respite organizations, and organizations that can provide stipends if they are looking for those services. Outreach activities MOPH sends staff to remote areas to reach out to veterans and their families. MOPH also has tables with information at local events. Many veterans and caregivers will refer their friends to MOPH for services. VA caseworkers often refer veterans and their caregivers to MOPH. People who receive clothing from MOPH also learn about MOPH services and reach out to the organization. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 108
Military Warriors Support Foundation
Feature Description Website http://www.militarywarriors.org Origination date 2007 History Military Warriors Support Foundation was founded by Lt. General, Leroy Sisco, USA (Ret), to provide support for the nation’s combat-­‐wounded heroes and Gold Star Families as they transition out of the military and into their new civilian lives. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Homes 4 Wounded Heroes: Combat-­‐wounded veteran of OEF/OIF, honorably retired or separated from the military, without a current mortgage Skills 4 Life program: Online application to determine eligibility [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No; must be a combat-­‐wounded veteran of OEF/OIF Geographic reach National or international Mission Military Warriors Support Foundation seeks to provide support for the nation’s combat-­‐wounded heroes and Gold Star Families as they transition out of the military and into their new civilian life. Goals Provide programs that facilitate a smooth and successful transition, including home donation, academic and employment assistance, and recreational activities. Services for Common Caregiving Services Homes4WoundedHeroes (Helping Hand): Awards 100 percent mortgage-­‐free homes to combat-­‐wounded veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan. Skills4Life (Structured Wellness Activities): Through this program, MWSF offers family getaways, golf outings, and hunting and fishing trips for wounded veterans and their families. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Financial planning/education for recipients of the Homes 4 Wounded Heroes program. Tax Determination Nonprofit Status 109
National Alliance on Mental Illness
Feature Description Website http://www.nami.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 1979 History NAMI was founded as a grassroots mental health advocacy organization. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Individuals with mental illness and their caregivers Specific injury/illness Mental illness Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events: State organizations and more than 1,000 local affiliates in communities across the country. Mission NAMI is dedicated to the eradication of mental illnesses and to the improvement of the quality of life of all who are affected by these diseases. Goals Advocate national investment in lifesaving research, parity for mental health care, and increased housing to ensure that treatments and services are available to those in need when they need them most. [Caregiver incidental] [Military incidental] Raise awareness addressing the stigma of mental illness, ensuring the decrease of barriers to treatment and recovery. NAMI’s signature education programs have served as a beacon of hope for hundreds of thousands of families and individuals. Expand support efforts to meet the challenges of a changing world by supporting virtual communities of help and hope to millions through NAMI.org and NAMI’s social media channels. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Family Support Group (Structured Social Support): NAMI Family Support Group is a peer-­‐led support group for family members, caregivers and loved ones of individuals living with mental illness. Groups generally meet on a monthly basis but may meet weekly. The hallmark of a NAMI support group is leveraging the collective knowledge and experience of the other participants. NAMI’s Family Support Group: •
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Meets monthly or weekly for 90-­‐minute sessions free of charge Is designed for loved ones (18 and over) of individuals living with mental illness Is facilitated by a trained team of family members of individuals living with mental illness. Is confidential—share as much or as little personal information as you want Does not recommend or endorse any medications or other medical therapies for your family member Is guided by Principles of Support. The support group can offer family members or caregivers practical advice on addressing issues related to mental illness and their loved one. It also gives them the appropriate space to have their personal needs met to help them provide the best possible care for their family member. Training (Structured Education/Training): NAMI Family-­‐to-­‐Family is an educational course for family, caregivers, and friends of individuals living with mental illness. 110
National Alliance on Mental Illness
Feature Description Some details about NAMI’s Family-­‐to-­‐Family training are as follows: •
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Meets for 12 free sessions, two and a half hours each Designed for loved ones (over age 18) of individuals living with mental illness Taught by trained family members of individuals living with mental illness Provides critical information and strategies related to caregiving Incorporates presentations, discussion and exercises. Designated an Evidence Based Practice in 2013 by SAMHSA. As part of the Family-­‐to-­‐Family training, NAMI also offers a toolkit of information, which includes: •
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Up-­‐to-­‐date information about a range of mental illnesses, including co-­‐occurring mental illnesses and substance use disorders Impact of mental illness on the brain Current research on treatments including medication, side effects and evidence-­‐based therapies Training in preparedness and emotional resiliency Skills related to managing crises, solving problems, and communicating effectively Strategies for self-­‐care, including management of stress and emotional overload Guidance on locating appropriate local supports and services. The program is also offered in Spanish, as De Familia a Familia de NAMI, in a limited number of states. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 111
National Association of American Veterans (NAAV)
Feature Description Managing office N/A Origination date 2005 History NAAV was established in response to the needs of returning wounded warriors, especially single-­‐parent service members, military caregivers, disabled veterans and their families. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Service members and veterans, and their family members. Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission NAAV seeks to assist service members and disabled veterans and their dependents, particularly severely wounded warriors and single-­‐parent service members and veterans, by helping access their benefits; improving communication and coordination with VA; and collaborating with the VA and other veterans groups, health agencies, medical professional organizations, educational organizations, and the public in support of veterans, their families, and military caregivers. Goals To serve all service members and veterans who served and are serving in the United States Armed Forces in the following areas: [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] •
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Services for caregivers Assisting eligible veterans with obtaining due benefits, counseling referrals, single parenting, and emergency assistance referrals Empowering service members and disabled veterans by giving them access to information on education, employment, housing, nutritional and spiritual wellness, medical care information, and job training and career coaching Serving as an advocate for veteran’s rights Supporting the timely processing of VA disability claims for all veterans through partnerships with other veterans’ groups. Common Caregiving Services Family Fun Day (Structured Social Support): NAAV sponsored the 2012 VA Caregiver Support Program Family Fun Day for caregivers and their families, including Fisher House residents. NAAV provided food at the events and offered gifts for caregivers and backpacks for children. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Claims, Benefits, and Legal Assistance (Other): NAAV offers claims and benefits assistance to service members and their families, including in-­‐person assistance on the second and third Mondays of each month at the VA Medical Center in Washington, D.C. NAAV also facilitates access to a pro bono attorney if claims are denied. Financial Literacy Training (Other): NAAV sponsored the D.C. VA Caregiver Support Program’s first Financial Literacy Seminar for caregivers of veterans receiving treatment at the D.C. VA Medical Center. Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: NAAV staff members receive phone calls and emails from veterans and their caregivers or family members in search of resources and referrals. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. 112
National Association of American Veterans (NAAV)
Feature Description Outreach activities Service members, veterans, and their family members discover NAAV through the organization’s website and VA/DoD referral lists. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 113
National Council on Aging (NCOA)—Building Better Caregivers (BBC)
Feature Description Website http://www.ncoa.org/ Origination date 2012 (Building Better Caregivers) History NCOA was originally founded to advocate for aging Americans. However, the mission of the organization has expanded over time to provide services and information to aging Americans and their families and caregivers. In 2012, NCOA partnered with the VA Caregiver Support Program to offer online training for military caregivers through its Building Better Caregivers initiative. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Aging populations. Specific injury/illness No: Serves individuals with a range of chronic health conditions and their families and caregivers. Geographic reach National or international Mission NCOA’s mission is to improve the lives of millions of older adults, especially those who are vulnerable and disadvantaged. Goals NCOA’s goals to achieve their mission are centered on health, economic security, and public policy. [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Health: •
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Improve the health of older adults with multiple serious health problems through participation in cost-­‐
effective evidence-­‐based programs Make self-­‐care an integral part of U.S. health care for people with multiple chronic conditions Work with national partners to promote initiatives to assist family caregivers across the lifespan, including adequate appropriations for caregiver programs, development of caregiver assessments, and a refundable tax credit for caregivers. As part of this goal, NCOA has partnered with VA to offer the BBC program. Economic Security: •
Improve the financial well-­‐being of low-­‐income and vulnerable older adults by providing comprehensive, integrated services that increase their income and/or reduce their expenses. Public Policy: •
Services for caregivers Strengthen and protect major public programs (for example: Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and the Older Americans Act) for disadvantaged and vulnerable older adults. Common Caregiving Services (Structured Education/Training): BBC is a six-­‐week, web-­‐based workshop for caregivers, where 15 to 25 people participate in a workshop together. They are given weekly assignments, but attendance at a certain time is not required. The BBC website features a number of discussion boards where caregivers can post about their experiences. Two trained facilitators, one or both of whom are also caregivers, lead the workshops, which cover a number of topics, including stress management, difficult care partner behaviors, sleep, healthy eating, exercise, difficult emotions, care partner emotions, making decisions, finding help, and making plans for the future. 114
National Council on Aging (NCOA)—Building Better Caregivers (BBC)
Feature Description Caregivers who participate in the workshops are asked to log on two or three times a week for a total of one to two hours. Caregivers’ assignments include reading and interacting via the Learning Center, making and posting a weekly action plan, participating in problem-­‐solving and guided exercises on discussion boards, and participating in any appropriate self-­‐tests and activities. Caregivers share experiences, post problems, and help each other resolve problems on the online discussion boards. Mode of Delivery: Internet Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: NCOA and BBC refer veterans to VA services. Referral Service for Caregiver: The BBC online forum includes links and information on approximately 100 resources for caregivers. Outreach activities VA is NCOA’s main referral stream for serving military caregivers. VA Caregiver Support Coordinators refer caregivers to the program. NCOA also conducts outreach to a wide range of other national and local programs that serve the aging population and their caregivers. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 115
National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization’s (NHPCO) Caring Connections
Feature Description Website http://www.nhpco.org/caregiving Origination date 2004 History NHPCO is the largest membership organization representing hospice and palliative care providers. They provide professional development and leadership for the field. The Caring Connections program was launched with the goal of providing caregivers with information about hospice, advanced care planning, coping with pain, communication with providers, and other relevant topics. The site also includes information for providers and community organizations, including outreach guides and guides for working with specific populations. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: None Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission NHPCO seeks to empower patients and caregivers with information so they can make informed choices related to serious and life-­‐limiting illness. Goals Provide caregivers and other organizations resources free of charge [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Bring together communities and stakeholders to advance end of life care. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Structured Education/Training): NHPCO offers an online course titled Supporting Working Caregivers. Mode of Delivery: Internet Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The Caring Connections website includes a toll free number caregivers can call with specific questions. They can also call this line to get information about hospices and palliative care providers in their community. The website includes links to a wide variety of information, including communication tools, checklists, and state-­‐specific advanced directive forms. Outreach activities NHPCO provides ads about Caring Connections to their member organizations and encourages these organizations to customize and distribute the ads. Information about Caring Connections is often included in NHPCO press releases and they have a series of PSAs about the website. They have recently started using social media to provide links to the website. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 116
National Military Family Association (NMFA)
Feature Description Website http://www.militaryfamily.org Managing office N/A Origination date 1969 History NMFA was founded with a core mission of advocating for military families. The organization has since developed programming to promote that population’s well-­‐being and quality of life. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Families of military service members or veterans Note: Operation Purple® Family Retreats are open to service members and their families who have experienced a deployment within the last 15 months. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission NMFA seeks to fight for benefits and programs that strengthen and protect Uniformed Services families and reflect the Nation’s respect for their service. Goals NMFA believes that all military families deserve comprehensive child care, accessible health care, spouse employment options, great schools, caring communities, a secure retirement, and support for widows and widowers. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Operation Purple Family Retreats (Structured Social Support and Structured Wellness Activities): These retreats are designed to help families reconnect after experiencing the stresses surrounding a deployment. They take place in scenic outdoor locations and offer nature hikes, canoeing, campfires, and other activities that provide attendees with an opportunity to spend time outdoors, be unplugged from technology, try new things, make friends, and enjoy quality time as a family. Military Family Life Consultants (MFLCs) and FOCUS (Families Overcoming Under Stress) facilitators are available to families attending these retreats. Operation Purple Healing Adventures (Structured Social Support and Structured Wellness Activities): This is a family camp experience for active-­‐duty or medically retired service members who were wounded or experienced emotional trauma or illness related to their service subsequent to September 11, 2001, and their families. The camp combines family-­‐focused activities with outdoor exploration and specially adapted communication activities developed by FOCUS. Attendees also engage in outdoor activities such as climbing, hiking, and canoeing, and have opportunities to socialize with other military families. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: App: NMFA created My Military Life, an app that allows military families to access information about a number of topics relevant to military family members and caregivers. 117
National Military Family Association (NMFA)
Feature Description NMFA also regularly publishes four eNewsletters: •
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Military Family Topics is a compilation of information that NMFA receives from official military publications and news releases, briefings, and actions being worked on by NMFA. The Voice for Military Families provides a look at the military lifestyle, and contains information on NMFA’s projects and events. Monthly Bulletin alerts users to what the NMFA is working on. Spouse Club eNews informs military spouse communities about current issues, benefits, and programs that affect military families. NMFA provides information on their website targeted toward military family members. This includes information on higher education for spouses, information on spouse employment, and information to help military families understand their benefits. Outreach activities NMFA engages in outreach and awareness activities with veterans’ service organizations and warrior transition units. The organization also maintains a website. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 118
Navy Safe Harbor Foundation
Feature Description Website http://www.safeharborfoundation.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2009 History Navy Safe Harbor Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, was founded to fill gaps and provide additional services to sailors, Coast Guardsmen, and their families who are enrolled in the Navy Wounded Warrior Safe Harbor Program. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Individuals who are a part of the Navy Wounded Warrior Safe Harbor program and their family members. [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Navy Safe Harbor Foundation is dedicated to supporting the recovery of seriously wounded, ill, and injured sailors, Coast Guardsmen and their families by assisting them with resources not currently provided by government or community services. Goals Focus support and services toward U.S. Navy and Coast Guard seriously wounded, ill, and injured Reserve, active-­‐duty, and medically retired populations Focus support to the Navy’s Safe Harbor Command enrollee population and family members Fill the gaps and provide services not available through government or community avenues Raise awareness of the needs of wounded, ill, and injured sailors, Coast Guardsmen, and their families. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Helping Hand): NSHF provides funds for a variety of needs and services: •
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Travel expenses for service members and their families to events (such as Warrior Games and Family Symposium) Gift cards for food Financial assistance for court costs Financial assistance for housing Funds for vehicle modifications/housing modifications Depending on the situation, the Foundation will also pay bills or make purchases directly, or provide gift cards. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance Outreach activities Referrals come to NSHF through the Navy Wounded Warrior Safe Harbor program, specifically through the Navy Wounded Warrior Safe Harbor care managers. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 119
Navy SEAL Foundation
Feature Description Website http://www.navysealfoundation.org Managing office N/A Origination date 2000 History The Foundation formed to offer critical support to Naval Special Warfare commands, active-­‐duty personnel, veterans, and their family members. It changed its name in January 2011 when the SEAL-­‐Naval Special Warfare Foundation and the Navy SEAL Warrior Fund merged. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: All U.S. Navy SEALs, Special Warfare Combatant-­‐Craft Crewmen, Naval Special Warfare support personnel, and their spouses and children, focusing on service members who served after September11, 2001. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The Navy SEAL Foundation seeks to provide immediate and ongoing support and assistance to the Naval Special Warfare community and their families. Goals Five main pillars of programmatic support: •
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Services for caregivers Warrior and family services Legacy preservation Survivor support Educational opportunities Immediate tragedy assistance Common Caregiving Services Assistance in Times of Adversity (Helping Hand): The Foundation provides general assistance and financial support in times of need or for wounded or ill Naval Special Warfare service members and their families. The type of assistance offered is determined based on individual needs and the unique circumstances of the situation at hand. Support may include such services as respite child care, home-­‐cleaning services, adaptive equipment, interdisciplinary forms of treatment not covered by insurance, professional counseling, home maintenance requests, or payment of travel or lodging expenses for caregivers during hospital stays or while the service member is recuperating. Many programs offered by The Foundation augment the existing efforts of the DoD or VA; creating an enhanced support plan. The Foundation also provides flight support and lodging so that the extended families of service members can be with them in times of illness, injury or need. The Foundation covers the cost of flights/lodging for family members to travel to be with the service member during hospital stays, recovery periods or for ongoing care. Mode of Delivery: Financial and miscellaneous support Command and Family Support Events (Structured Social Support): The Navy SEAL Foundation annually sponsors a number of seasonal family activities, retreats and command social events at each major Naval Special Warfare footprint (California, Virginia, Mississippi, and Hawaii) (i.e. Spring fling, Easter Egg Roll, Halloween Party, Summer Camp Out/BBQ, Father/Daughter Dance, Father/Son Fishing Trip, Pre/Post Deployment Retreats, as well as ongoing educational events that aim to teach resiliency to the whole family). Events are open to Naval Special Warfare personnel, their spouses and dependent children. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) 120
Navy SEAL Foundation
Feature Description Outreach activities The Foundation works closely with military commands, particularly the family support coordinators within the commands. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 121
Navy Wounded Warrior—Safe Harbor (NWW)
Feature Description Website http://safeharbor.navylive.dodlive.mil/ Origination date 2008 History N/A Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Sailors or Coast Guardsman with a serious illness or injury requiring long-­‐term care that may result in a Medical Evaluation Board/Physical Evaluation Board to determine fitness for duty, and their families. [Caregiver incidental][Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission NWW—Safe Harbor is the Navy’s organization for coordinating the nonmedical care of seriously wounded, ill, and injured sailors and Coast Guardsmen, and providing resources and support to their families. Through proactive leadership, the program provides individually tailored assistance designed to optimize the success of the shipmates’ recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration activities. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Patient advocacy): RCCs and Non-­‐Medical Case Managers: RCCs and case management staff assist sailors and their families in addressing their needs and achieving goals, in part through a Recovery Care Plan. Safe Harbor staff work with sailors and their families to develop the plan, which focuses on critical family needs such as loss of income, benefits, and emotional well-­‐being. (Helping Hand): Travel Assistance: Safe Harbor arranges for ITA Orders and NMA assistance. (Financial Stipend): SCAADL: SCAADL is issued and dispersed to sailors through Safe Harbor. Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: As needed, Navy Wounded Warrior—Safe Harbor connects enrollees and their families to nonmedical counseling available through various outlets, including the FOCUS program, the Military Family Life Consultant Program, and Military OneSource. The program also connects enrollees and their families with services such as respite care. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Tax Determination Status Government: DoD/Navy 122
Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society
Feature Description Website http://www.nmcrs.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2006 History In 1904, several Naval officers, wives of Naval officers, and civilian friends saw the need for more formal and organized assistance. The Society was incorporated on January 23 of that year. Initial funding came from the proceeds of the 1903 Army-­‐Navy Football Game held at Franklin Field, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In its first year, the Society gave $9,500 to widows and families of enlisted men. During World War I, military pay days were often delayed. To help cover the gap, the Society began an interest-­‐
free loan program for Navy and Marine Corps personnel. Eventually, this financial assistance expanded to help with other needs, such as paying medical bills. The Society has expanded its financial assistance programs several times to meet new and growing needs. In 1964, it began an education assistance program; in the early 1980s, the financial assistance and counseling program was created to help service members better manage their money. In 2006, the Society expanded the traditional Visiting Nurse Program to include those returning from Iraq with physical injuries and traumatic stress disorders. The Combat Casualty Assistance Visiting Nurse program provides resources and support to Marines and sailors who served in OEF, OIF, or OND, as well as their loved ones. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: •
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Active-­‐duty or retired sailors and Marines Eligible family members with military ID card Surviving spouses Reservists on active duty of 30 days or more [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The Society provides financial assistance and education, as well as other programs and services, to members of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, their eligible family members, widows, and survivors. It also receives and manages donated funds to administer these programs and services. Goals Help each person who comes to us get support for immediate needs. Help sailors and Marines become financially self-­‐sufficient by learning how to better manage their personal finances and prepare for unplanned expenses. 123
Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society
Feature Description Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Helping Hand): The society provides funds to help with a wide range of financial needs. Common situations include: •
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Food, rent/mortgage, utilities, essential home repairs Establishing a new residence, including security and utility deposits Car expenses, such as repairs and insurance deductibles Medical expenses Military pay shortage / delayed entitlements Funeral expenses. (Structured Education/Training): Registered nurses visit sailors and Marines in the hospital, rehabilitation centers, or in their home. They help them and their loved ones understand the injuries, diagnosis, and recovery or rehabilitation processes. The nurses provide health information and resources needed. The program provides this support through their traditional Visiting Nurse Program and their Combat Casualty Assistance (CCA) Visiting Nurse Program. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 124
Operation Family Fund
Feature Description Website http://www.oeffamilyfund.org/ Origination date 2003 History After hearing about Adelman Broadcasting’s Operation High Desert Cares (which distributes care packages to military members overseas), Mike Cash, a father of two sons in the military, wanted to donate to families of fallen military in Iraq and Afghanistan. After contacting Adelman Broadcasting’s Eric Kauffman, both parties were dismayed to discover there was no place to leave a donation. Cash then partnered with Adelman Broadcasting to launch Operation Family Fund with the goal of creating a fund that will take care of military families beyond what the government provides. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: The member must have been an employee or contractor working for the U.S. federal government and have been performing duties in conjunction with the war on terror and OEF or OIF at the time of their death or severe disability. A family may apply and be approved for no more than two grants, with a minimum of six months between grants. First-­‐time applicants will have highest priority. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Operation Family Fund seeks to assist the injured and families of the those who have been injured or killed as a part of the Global War on Terrorism, whether domestic or abroad, military or civilian, with financial grants for transitioning to their new circumstances and achieving financial self-­‐sufficiency. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Tax Determination Status (Helping Hand): OFF makes financial grants to eligible service members or their families to meet personal, short-­‐ and long-­‐term living needs in these areas: food, rent or utilities, emergency transportation and vehicle repair, funeral expenses, legal expenses, medical/dental expenses, assistance with a home, rental, lease, purchase or home improvements, assistance with the purchase, rent or lease of a vehicle. Nonprofit 125
Operation First Response (OFR)
Feature Description Website http://www.OperationFirstResponse.org Managing office N/A Origination date 2004 History The founder is a military mom who recognized that wounded, ill, or injured service members often need assistance and support long after the immediate recovery period. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Wounded, ill, or injured service members or veterans and their families. Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The mission of Operation First Response, Inc., is to serve all branches of the nation's wounded heroes and their families with personal and financial needs. Services are provided from the onset of injuries or illness, throughout their recovery period, and along their journey from military life to the civilian world. Financial aid varies, as each case is based on individual needs ranging from rent, utilities, vehicle payments, groceries, clothing, and travel expenses. Goals Ensure that all disabled veterans receive the assistance needed to overcome any financial burden as a result of injuries occurred in defense of the country Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Wounded Warrior Financial Assistance Program (Helping Hand): Operation First Response provides assistance with expenses such as rent and mortgage payments, utility payments, vehicle payments and repairs, food, travel, and lodging. Wounded, ill, or injured service members, veterans, or their family members must provide documentation of the wound, illness, or injury and specify their financial need prior to obtaining assistance. The amount of assistance varies based on need. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance (Structured Social Support): Operation First Response maintains a PTSD group on Facebook for service members, veterans, and their family members. This site serves as a tool for linking individuals together and as a forum for peer support. Mode of Delivery: Internet Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: Operation First Response maintains their own list of resources, and refers service members, veterans, and their family members to other organizations if they are unable to assist them. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities VA case managers or members of the military command serve as the primary referral sources. Operation First Response also maintains a website. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 126
Operation Heal Our Patriots
Feature Description Website http://www.operationhealourpatriots.org Managing office Samaritan’s Purse Origination date 2012 History Operation Heal Our Patriots was developed as an expression of appreciation of the sacrifices of veterans and their spouses. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: OEF/OIF-­‐era service members or veterans suffering from physical or mental wounds/illnesses/injuries, and their spouses. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Operation Heal Our Patriots, a ministry project of Samaritan’s Purse, focuses on bringing spiritual refreshment, physical renewal, and marriage enrichment to wounded and injured U.S. military service members and their spouses. To thank these brave men and women for their service and sacrifice, Operation Heal Our Patriots offer[s] programs uniquely developed to strengthen the marriage relationship and build hope for the future through the transforming power of God’s Word. Goals Operation Heal Our Patriots aims to: •
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Services for caregivers Give military couples a shared experience Enhance marriage resiliency Encourage attendees to contemplate their relationship with Jesus Christ. Common Caregiving Services (Structured Social Support): Couples attend a retreat in Anchorage, AK, for one week. Attendees are flown to and from the retreat on a private plane with expenses paid by Samaritan’s Purse. The time at the retreat is divided among recreational activities; educational opportunities focused on marriage resiliency (e.g., family systems, self-­‐exploration, marital communication, worship, reconciliation and forgiveness, and basic marital hints); and cultural activities (e.g., talks about Native American culture or visits to historical sites). All activities are voluntary. Retreats serve a social support function. Couples interact and bond with other couples, and often remain in contact after the retreats. Each winter, Operation Heal Our Patriots holds a weekend-­‐long reunion retreat in Asheville, NC, for past attendees of the Alaska retreat. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) (Religious Support): One-­‐on-­‐one personal counseling is offered by chaplains at the retreats. Baptism and marriage renewal is also offered. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group and individual) (Structured Wellness Activities): Couples attending retreats may engage in a number of outdoor physical activities, including hiking, fishing, bear watching, and kayaking. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Outreach activities Attendees discover the program through past attendees (word of mouth), the organization’s website, Warrior Transition Battalions, and other military service organizations. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 127
Operation Homefront
Feature Description Website http://www.OperationHomefront.net Origination date 2002 History Operation Homefront, a 501(c)(3) organization, was formed to support the families of deployed service members immediately following 9/11. Headquartered in San Antonio, TX, it provides services to military families across the nation in an effort to alleviate a military family’s or individual’s emergency financial burden, as well as counseling and/or recovery support. While all aspects of Operation Homefront’s programs and services benefit caregivers in some form, two of the more specific and lasting efforts come through the Hearts of Valor and housing programs. In 2007, Operation Homefront recognized the need to support the people caring for wounded warriors, and created an online community forum for caregivers. Operation Homefront also recognized caregivers’ busy schedules and began gathering beauty products and items to bring them a moment of happiness and remind them to practice self-­‐care. The organization sends out care packages to new members every week, and more than 1,000 caregivers have received packages from Hearts of Valor. Soon after the care packages e ffort began, Operation Homefront created weekend retreats providing caregivers a chance to separate briefly from their daily demands. The caregivers attend structured seminars on critical caregiver resources, and can take advantage of social opportunities to strengthen their support network with fellow caregivers. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: American military personnel and/or their families who have unmet needs due to financial hardship, death, injury, or physical or mental detriment as a result of service in Iraq or Afghanistan. These may include active duty, Reserve, National Guard, and Veteran Service Members. [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches/offices: 22 field offices serving 45 states; the national headquarters serves the remaining states Mission Operation Homefront provides emergency financial and other assistance to families of service members and wounded warriors. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Helping Hand): Operation Homefront provides financial assistance, emergency food, emergency home repairs, critical baby items, furniture/household items, local moving assistance, and wounded warrior transitional family housing. Operation Homefront has two housing programs available to veterans. One provides temporary housing through subleased apartments in San Diego, San Antonio, and in Maryland and are offered to veterans and their families who are in the MEDBOARD process or separating from the military due to injury. Temporary housing is provided for six to eight months. The permanent housing program, Homes on the Homefront, leverages partnerships with banks to match veterans with a home. Upon completion of a two-­‐year program—which includes treatment maintenance, financial counseling, and mentorship—veterans and their families assume full ownership of the home. Mode of Delivery: Housing assistance, Financial assistance, Miscellaneous assistance 128
Operation Homefront
Feature Description Hearts of Valor On-­‐Site and Virtual Community (Structured Social Support): The program is open to all caregivers of the wounded, ill, or injured. Operation Homefront offers two-­‐day retreats through Hearts of Valor that are free of charge and offer the opportunity to meet other caregivers and learn about invisible wounds, coping, and relaxation. The director and program coordinator communicate directly with an average of 15 caregivers each day. Specifically they provide crisis intervention, suicide awareness, resources, peer support, and encouragement. Peer-­‐Facilitated Support Groups (Structured Social Support): Volunteer program members who are willing to serve as facilitators lead groups in 33 locations around the United States. The goal of every group is to provide emotional and practical support to the estimated half-­‐million people who are caring for wounded warriors. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group), Internet Didactic Retreats (Structured Education/Training): Operation Homefront hosts retreats at locations based upon restricted funding and population. They afford members an opportunity to increase their level of self-­‐
care, awareness, and problem-­‐solving skills. There is a therapeutic theme to these events and Operation Homefront pays for food, travel, lodging, and cost of materials. The director and program coordinator manage and coordinate the retreat content, while morale support staff provides the event planning. At previous retreats, caregivers have been taught how to manage triggers and take time for themselves, and where to go when they need help. Caregivers have the opportunity to: •
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Identify symptoms consistent with a diagnosis of PTSD and the expected course of recovery Identify the comorbid factors that interfere with recovery from TBI and PTSD Recognize the changes in physical, cognitive, and behavioral functions following TBI Be aware of the behavioral impairments that are risk factors associated with aggressive and violent behavior following TBI Understand how TBI is classified in terms of severity and the expected course of recovery Recognize what changes are due to PTSD and those that are caused by a TBI Learn strategies to help with difficulties with cognition (thinking), fatigue, overload, memory, irritability, behavior, and alcohol misuse Learn about the high costs of caregiving, including physical and emotional stresses Reduce compassion fatigue by learning how to care Develop a wellness plan for preventing caregiver burnout Identify issues surrounding intimacy. To accomplish these goals, the organization brings in experts with knowledge of PTSD and TBI who are comfortable talking and sharing on these objectives. There are also speakers, counselors and psychologists familiar with compassion fatigue and PTSD who are trained to run small group sessions. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Care Packages (Other): Program members receive a care package within 30 days of membership. Since inception, Operation Homefront has sent out more than 1,700 care packages. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Monthly Newsletters: Operation Homefront publishes a monthly newsletter with current topics and sends it to all current program members through the icontact software. The Hearts of Valor Website: This site is private and secure and contains the locations of the support groups. 129
Operation Homefront
Feature Description Referral Service for Caregiver: Operation Homefront provides warm handoffs, especially for emergency financial services. If members do not qualify, staff facilitate a warm handoff to organizations that can help in that area. Fifty percent of caregiver phone calls lead to a referral in one way or another. Outreach activities Each employee, volunteer, and partner in support takes community outreach to heart. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit Operation Homefront has a blog, along with being active each day on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. It also has fliers, brochures, pins, bags, and window stickers posted in veteran communities. The program director and program coordinator take every opportunity to talk about Operation Homefront online, on the radio, and on TV, and have had several conversations with the various veteran service organizations and Warrior and Family Support Centers. More than 100 national volunteers share information with their local communities, vet centers, and VA clinics. 130
Patient Advocate Foundation
Feature Description Website http://www.patientadvocate.org http://www.copays.org Managing office N/A Origination date 1996 History Nancy Davenport-­‐Ennis and her husband, Jack Ennis, founded two complementary organizations—the National Patient Advocate Foundation (NPAF) and the Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF)—after watching a friend battle breast cancer and struggle to navigate health insurance challenges. PAF provides direct services to patients as part of its mission to ensure access to care, maintenance of employment, and the preservation of financial stability. NPAF is located in Washington, D.C., and supports legislative reform at both the federal and state level. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Patients with chronic, life-­‐threatening, or debilitating illness; may be insured or uninsured. [Caregiver incidental][Military incidental] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Patient Advocate Foundation is a national 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides professional case management services to Americans with chronic, life-­‐threatening, and debilitating illnesses. PAF case managers serve as active liaisons between the patient and their insurer, employer, and/or creditors to resolve insurance, job retention, and/or debt crisis matters as they relate to their diagnosis, also assisted by doctors and health care attorneys. PAF seeks to safeguard patients through effective mediation assuring access to care, maintenance of employment, and preservation of their financial stability. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Patient Advocacy): PAF serves both insured and uninsured patients. When assisting insured patients, advocates find services available through the patient’s insurance and look for supplemental resources to ensure access to care. Advocates assist with negotiating access to pharmaceutical agents, medical devices, chemotherapy, and surgical procedures. Advocates assist with financial and medical debt crisis and screening to determine eligibility for benefits such as Medicare, Medicaid, and other social programs. They also assist with coding and billing errors through the use of certified coding and billing specialists who work on behalf of the patient when interfacing with insurance companies and providers. PAF helps patients access care by connecting them with community programs and clinical trials. Case managers research disease specific organizations and connect patients to local resources. Case management services are provided via telephone. Mode of Delivery: Phone, Internet (Structured Education/Training): PAF conducts webinars that address how to navigate the health care system. Mode of Delivery: Internet 131
Patient Advocate Foundation
Feature Description Nonstandard Clinical Care (Health Care): PAF offers assistance through the copay relief program, which provides funding for medications to insured patients. The program supports patients with numerous diseases and is based on available funding. PAF recently opened two additional financial assistance programs. One provides financial assistance to patients with breast cancer who are undergoing treatment; the other is for patients with prostate cancer who are undergoing radiation treatment. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The PAF website contains National Uninsured and Underinsured Resource Directories and financial resource guides. The directories are disease-­‐specific and provide referrals to resources based on patient input. Referral Service for Veteran: PAF provides referrals (via conference call) to national or local resources. When patients are unable to afford treatment, PAF works to identify and refer them to programs that assist with medication costs and helps them process applications for such benefits. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities PAF has been featured in various media outlets including O magazine and CNN. PAF also attends national conferences and conducts outreach to disease-­‐specific communities to discuss PAF programs. PAF webinars give a general overview of the available services. Additionally, PAF has published booklets on 30 different topics; these have been distributed to patients and providers with the goal of providing information in an easy-­‐to-­‐understand format. PAF has a booklet discussing health reform. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 132
Pentagon Federal Credit Union Foundation
Feature Description Website http://www.pentagonfoundation.org Managing office N/A Origination date 2001 History The Pentagon Federal Credit Union Foundation was created in December 2001 by Pentagon Federal Credit Union to assist military personnel in securing a sound financial future for themselves and their families. In 2002, the Foundation received a 501(c)3 designation from the Internal Revenue Service. Work continued on building programs and securing funds to move forward with the mission of serving the nation’s defenders. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Military personnel and their families Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The PenFed Foundation is dedicated to assist the men and women and their immediate families in the Department of Defense and Homeland Security. This includes both uniform and nonuniform personnel. The Military Heroes program provides support to those wounded in the war against terrorism. Given the large numbers of wounded and the long-­‐term nature of their challenges, the government faces budget and logistical problems in meeting their needs. That’s where the foundation steps in to help. Goals Ensure that no one, especially not military members and veterans, is excluded from building a secure future. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Defenders Lodge (Helping Hand): The Lee & Penny Anderson Lodge serves as a free hotel for veterans undergoing medical care at the Veterans Affairs hospital in Palo Alto, CA. As of October 2013, construction is complete and veterans will use the benefits of the lodge at the end of the year. The PenFed Foundation is raising $11 million in private donations to cover the cost of building the Defenders Lodge, a $17 million public-­‐
private partnership with VA. In 2011, almost 11,000 patients had to find temporary housing; many had to drive 50 miles to find an affordable hotel while they waited for treatment. This lodge will solve the problem. ARK (Helping Hand): ARK offers a no-­‐interest alternative to predatory lending. Individuals can to borrow up to $500 with a flat fee of $5 and no interest for one month. ARK provides a hassle-­‐free, confidential, and smart way to deal with money problems. Up to three loans in six months are available, but after the first ARK loan, the recipient must sit down with a local Consumer Credit Counselor identified by the foundation. The goal is to rebuild or repair credit, improve cash flow and increase money-­‐management skills. Military Heroes Fund (Helping Hand): The Military Heroes Fund provides wounded service members with services that DoD cannot offer due to budgetary and regulatory restrictions. These unmet needs are identified by the military command, the Military Severely Injured Center, VA advocates and others. Services provided include, for example, laptop computers for wounded soldiers and their families staying in Fisher Houses at military hospitals, and emergency financial support granted to families facing crises due to injuries and natural disasters. Dream Makers Program (Helping Hand): The Dream Makers Program offers grants for down payments to first-­‐
time homebuyers of modest means who work to protect the country’s national security. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance, Miscellaneous assistance, Housing assistance Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 133
Project Sanctuary
Feature Description Website http://projectsanctuary.us/#sthash.xQKaE8nv.dpbs Managing office N/A Origination date 2007 History Heather Ehle, founder and executive director of Project Sanctuary, is a Registered Nurse with more than 20 years of experience in the health care industry and nonprofit health care system as a nurse, manager, volunteer, and entrepreneur. After reading that the rates of child abuse and neglect triple when a parent is deployed, Ehle was moved to do something and founded Project Sanctuary in 2007. Being a civilian without direct ties to military families, she reached out to the community for support and education. Led by veterans and her board, she listened to what the military families needed and then structured Project Sanctuary’s programs to meet those needs, pulling from her background as a nurse to establish an evidence-­‐based program that encompasses spiritual, physical, and emotional healing. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: N/A Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission Project Sanctuary aims to provide therapeutic, curative, supportive, and recreational activities to veterans, active military personnel, and their spouses and children in a leisure environment. Additionally, services are then provided to the families for two years to continue to offer the support required. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Retreats (Structured Social Support): Heroes and their families are invited to spend six days and five nights of free therapeutic recreation in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Each retreat is held either at YMCA of the Rockies—Snow Mountain Ranch or Winding River Ranch. Families can reconnect in a supportive community resting on 6,000 acres of stunning mountain property. Project Sanctuary provides therapeutic retreats, enabling military families to reconnect and reintegrate into their communities through education, innovative services, and supportive follow through fun. Retreats (Structured Wellness Activities): Possible summer excursion activities include hiking, boating, swimming, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, fishing, campfire cookouts, archery, and ATV riding. Possible winter excursion activities include: alpine skiing (monoskiing available for guests with a disability), Nordic skiing, ice skating, snowman building and snowball games, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, tubing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. All activities are designed with the families in mind, and families are kept together throughout the retreat as much as possible. However, some activities or classes may require child care, which is always provided for children of all ages. During such times, there will be special crafts and kid-­‐friendly activities supervised by qualified individuals. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 134
Public Counsel Center for Veterans Advancement
Feature Description Website http://www.publiccounsel.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2009 (The broader organization, Public Counsel, was founded in 1970). History With support from Safeway, Inc., The Vons Foundation, Northrop Grumman, the Oder Family Foundation and the Burton G. Bettingen Corporation, Public Counsel created the Center for Veterans Advancement (CVA) in 2009. CVA is designed to address the unique needs of veterans, their family members, and caretakers. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Income-­‐eligible veterans and their family members/caretakers. Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events: California branch offices are in downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood, and West Los Angeles. New York City also has a branch office. Mission CVA seeks to uphold the nation’s promise to veterans and their families. Goals Stabilizing the living situation of veterans and their families [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] Securing government benefits, including (but not limited to) VA, SSI, General Relief, and medical benefits Providing veterans with needed legal representation to overcome the burdens potentially faced in procuring employment, housing, Medicare and/or supportive services Work to effect systemic policy change on the local, state, and national levels to help veterans overcome or escape homelessness, poverty, and loss of quality of life. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Outreach activities Most individuals hear about CVA through word of mouth. Some find out about the program through the Public Counsel website. They also receive referrals from other social service organizations that assist veterans/caretakers and from VA. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit (Helping Hand): CVA provides representation to secure government benefits including VA, SSI, General Relief, medical benefits, and claims for compensation for veterans suffering from Military Sexual Trauma (MST). CVA also provides direct representation at state and federal courts, including the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. CVA also provides veterans and their families with legal representation for select family law matters, including in domestic violence, temporary restraining orders, modification of child support orders, qualifying spouse/child apportionments, and ticket and warrant issues. Mode of Delivery: Legal assistance 135
Purple Heart Homes (PHH)
Feature Description Website http://www.purplehearthomesusa.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2008 History PHH is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded by veterans Dale Beatty and John Gallina. Both joined the North Carolina National Guard in 1996, and both were severely wounded in Bayji, Iraq, on November 15, 2004. During their years of service, both Beatty and Gallina responded not only to calls from the governor of North Carolina to help victims of Hurricane Fran and Hurricane Floyd, but ultimately to a call from the President of the United States to serve in OIF. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Note: PHH housing services are aimed at service-­‐connected veterans and their families. Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Purple Heart Homes, Inc. is dedicated to providing personalized housing solutions for service-­‐connected disabled veterans and their families that are substantial in function, design, and quality—homes that are fit to welcome home, and thank, the fighting men and women of America. Each case is different, but in all cases Purple Heart Homes provides a quality-­‐of-­‐life solution at little or no cost to the veteran that creates an injury-­‐
specific, barrier-­‐free living environment. These solutions can range from remodeling an existing home already owned by the veteran to creating an entire living space from the ground up. Goals As they have aged, injuries experienced fighting for their country have made it especially difficult for older veterans to climb steps without pain, or if bound to a wheelchair, difficult to navigate narrow doors and hallways in their older homes. It is Purple Heart Homes’ honor to assist all veterans who have been tragically wounded while fighting for the nation’s freedom. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Veteran Home Ownership Program (Helping Hand): This program is specifically designed for service-­‐connected disabled veterans who do not already own a home to become homeowners. Through donations or properties from banks, Purple Heart Homes will take prequalified and approved veterans and pair them with a home at the time of donation of pre-­‐approved properties. Purple Heart Homes will then make individual and specific adaptations to the property to meet the veteran’s need. A mortgage of 50 percent of the completed appraised value (not to exceed comparable properties in community value) will be obtained for the veteran. Program income derived from the Veteran Home Ownership Program provides funds needed for the Veteran Aging in Place Program, improving access in homes for older generations of veterans. The veteran in VHOP provides the opportunity to pay it forward in lieu of funds going to a financial institution; they are funding the rehab of other service-­‐connected disabled veterans’ homes. The veteran in VHOP is encouraged to also work on the project if they are physically able. 136
Purple Heart Homes (PHH)
Feature Description The goal of both programs is to help reintegrate the veteran into the community in which they live, and to proudly acknowledge the sacrifice they have made on their country’s behalf. Whether it is adapting an already-­‐
owned home, building a home from the ground up, or adapting and modifying a foreclosed home, Purple Heart Homes is committed to guiding the veteran through the entire process. Our ultimate goal is to empower veterans—providing a full complement of skill sets that allow them to be functioning members of their families and contributing members of their community. Veterans Aging in Place Program (Helping Hand): This program is specifically designed to help older service-­‐
connected disabled veterans and their caregivers who own their home. It seeks to restore both dignity and quality of life by creating an injury-­‐specific barrier-­‐free living environment, utilizing the existing space and structure. Services are provided at no cost to the veteran or family. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 137
Quality of Life Foundation
Feature Description Website http://www.QoLFoundation.org Origination date 2008 History The Quality of Life Foundation launched its first initiative, the Wounded Warrior Family Care Report, shortly after a chance meeting between the founder and the spouse of a Marine with a TBI. This meeting was the catalyst for the Quality of Life Foundation to begin researching the unique challenges faced by families of service members with wounds, injuries, or illnesses that required substantial caregiving. The goal of the Wounded Warrior Family Care Report was to document families' experiences and identify the resources required to successfully respond to this life-­‐changing event. After conducting a nearly yearlong study on the challenges that caregiving families face, the Quality of Life Foundation found the greatest challenges are at home, when the family assumes 24/7 responsibility for care, where the family’s needs are greatest and support is hardest to find. As part of the Quality of Life Foundation’s initiative to resolve issues identified in the Wounded Warrior Family Care Report, they launched the Wounded Veteran Family Care Program in March 2010. This program aims to support families who provide a substantial amount of caregiving to a wounded, injured, or ill veteran at home. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Families of veterans who have a service-­‐connected disability and require a full-­‐time caregiver at home. Note: The Quality of Life Foundation’s client families include veterans with combat-­‐ and noncombat-­‐related TBIs, PTSD, stroke, spinal cord injuries, multiple amputations, and other polytrauma injuries. The Quality of Life Foundation focuses on the whole family because often times, caregiving responsibilities, coupled with financial strain, result in family members forgoing their own quality of life needs. [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The Quality of Life Foundation’s mission is to help caregivers balance their desire to care for their wounded, injured, or ill loved one with their need to care for themselves and the rest of their family. Goals The Quality of Life Foundation seeks to help veterans and their families with various needs, including: •
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Services for caregivers emergency financial assistance for groceries, utilities, and rent or mortgage tutoring for minor children home and auto repair dental expenses caregiver respite expenses. Common Caregiving Services (Patient Advocacy): The Quality of Life Foundation provides patient advocacy if families request assistance, and lets veterans and their families know what benefits they may be entitled to. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual), Internet, Phone (Helping Hand): The Quality of Life Foundation helps families with a range of services, including housing assistance, home modifications, house and lawn care, and personal care (medical and dental appointments, etc.). The Quality of Life Foundation addresses quality-­‐of-­‐life needs through local and national resources, or through the outright purchase of goods/services when funding permits. Mode of Delivery: Housing assistance, Miscellaneous assistance 138
Quality of Life Foundation
Feature Description Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The Quality of Life Foundation has Family Support Coordinators who are located in Virginia and North Carolina, and who provide a range of information and resources Family Support Coordinators will meet with family members in person when possible, but for the most part, communication takes place on the phone or online. Referral Service for Caregiver: The Quality of Life Foundation connects families to respite care providers through VA or other community providers. Outreach activities The Quality of Life Foundation has a strong relationship with VA, which is a main source of referrals. The organization also reaches out to other nonprofits, DoD, and other caregivers. In addition, the Quality of Life Foundation conducts briefings and participates in caregiver community events to encourage referrals and raise awareness about the organization’s offerings. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 139
Rebuild Hope
Feature Description Website http://www.rebuildhope.org Origination date 2007 History Rebuild Hope is an all-­‐volunteer, donor-­‐advised public benefit corporation founded in November 2007 by a small team of Silicon Valley executives. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Current and former members of the regular U.S. military services, National Guard, and Reserves who have suffered life-­‐altering physical or psychological wounds and been medically discharged during the prior three years. Injuries need not be combat-­‐related. NOTE: The veteran must have received a combined medical disability rating of at least 50 percent from either the military or VA, or filed a claim with medical documentation that would support such a determination. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Rebuild Hope is a volunteer-­‐driven, national nonprofit with big aspirations—engaging thousands of Americans in a collective effort to help disabled Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and their families overcome government-­‐
created financial hardships, improve the financial management of their households, and escape unexpected poverty as they transition to civilian life. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Helping Hand): Veterans who join the Rebuild Hope veterans financial support network publish brief personal profiles on the website. A veteran’s profile describes a family’s current situation and its specific needs for financial assistance. Donors can then view these profiles and either select a specific beneficiary or ask Rebuild Hope to make a decision on their behalf. Rebuild Hope offers emergency grants and no-­‐interest loans to pay for essential needs. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Rebuild Hope helps veterans identify additional sources of financial assistance and sources of other essential services, including housing, legal assistance, psychological counseling, home repairs, retail discounts, and debt management counseling. Rebuild Hope helps veterans create a conservative 12-­‐month budget for their household by assigning them a case manager who counsels them on common actions they can take to eliminate nonessential expenses and lower costs. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 140
ReserveAid
Feature Description Website http://reserveaid.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2006 History ReserveAid was created by Lucas Detor, a former Secret Service agent turned financial services executive. When Lucas’ old National Guard unit was deployed to the war in Iraq, he began to hear stories about how his friends were struggling under the strain of supporting their families with a reduced salary and limited savings. When ReserveAid was born in 2006, the founding board sought to raise as much money as possible, then give it away. Assistance for groceries, tires, mufflers, and a new front door were among the many grants provided in the early days of the organization. As the fundraising and grant disbursement grew, the board—
and a significant founding donor—recognized the need for infrastructure. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Families of Reservists and National Guard members Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission ReserveAid seeks to make need-­‐based grants to military families with a reservist or National Guard member who is on full-­‐time deployment or who has recently returned from deployment to a combat zone or homeland security position. Goals Provide need-­‐based grants to military families of reservists or National Guard members who are on full-­‐time deployment or who have recently returned from deployment to a combat zone or homeland security position [Caregiver incidental]]Military specific] Work closely with VA and military services representatives to help identify reservists who may be in need Meet every valid emergency financial need of service members and their dependents within 48 hours of grant approval. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Helping Hand): To receive assistance, service members submit a request via online applications. Applications are reviewed and decided on within 48 hours. Requests often include: •
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Rent/mortgage payment Assistance with utility bills (power, heat) Car payment Car insurance Wal-­‐Mart gift card for food & fuel Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 141
Returning Heroes Home
Feature Description Website http://www.returningheroeshome.org/ Origination date 2006 History Many soldiers with severe burns receive care at Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX. The Army’s policy is to keep soldiers in one location until they have completed all treatment and therapy. Because of the nature of their injuries, soldiers can spend three years at Fort Sam Houston doing rehabilitation. In 2003, the Army hired a part-­‐time manager, Judith Markelz, to facilitate community-­‐building and activities for soldiers who were receiving care at Brooke Army Medical Center. She started the Soldier and Family Assistance Center (SFAC). In 2006, Beverly Lamoureux, the executive director of Huffman Developments, a customized commercial facilities development company, was looking to engage in a philanthropic cause. She learned about SFAC and met with Markelz to see if Huffman Developments could provide assistance. Shortly after that, Lamoureux started Returning Heroes Home as a nonprofit organization. To host more service members and families, Huffman Developments designed a 12,000-­‐square-­‐foot building with a therapeutic garden and an outdoor environment, now called the Warrior and Family Support Center. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Service members, veterans, and their families and caregivers Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Returning Heroes Home’s mission is to provide the best possible healing environment for the nation’s wounded service members and their families. Goals Return Heroes Home aims to achieve its mission through the following goals: [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] •
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Services for caregivers Facilitating peer-­‐to-­‐peer support Hosting activities and events for service members, veterans, and their families Promoting wellness among service members, veterans, and their families through offering facilities and recreational activities Providing education for service members, veterans, and their families. Common Caregiving Services (Helping Hand): The Warrior and Family Support Center provides helping hand support by setting up transportation to and from the Center and medical appointments. Mode of Delivery: Transportation assistance (Structured Social Support): The Warrior and Family Support Center offers many social support activities for service members, veterans, and their families, including bingo, dances, seasonal parties, and dinners on Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Warrior and Family Support Center also coordinates some activities off-­‐post, including trips to rodeos, monster truck shows, spas, and Wal-­‐Mart. The Center also provides snacks and refreshments, and access to Internet and other computer resources. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) 142
Returning Heroes Home
Feature Description (Structured Wellness Activities): The Warrior and Family Support Center offers clay shooting activities and other games and outdoor activities for service members, veterans, and their families. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) (Other): The Center offers a classroom with computers for service members, veterans, and their family members and caregivers. Computers include a software called Plato that allows individuals to design a plan based on their individual goals. Training opportunities such as Microsoft certification, professional development, and resources to help individuals earn a GED are also provided. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group and individual), Internet Outreach activities Judith Markelz refers service members treated at Brooke Army Medical Center to the Warrior and Family Support Center and is the main source of outreach and referral. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 143
Rosalynn Carter Institute (RCI) for Caregiving
Feature Description Website http://www.rosalynncarter.org Origination date 1987 History RCI is an advocacy, education, research, and service unit of Georgia Southwestern State University, created in honor of alumnus Rosalynn Carter. The former first lady is president of the RCI board of directors. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: General caregiver population. Note: One of its initiatives, Operation Family Caregiver, is specifically focused on serving military caregivers. [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Specific injury/illness No: RCI focuses on helping caregivers regardless of specific injury or illness. Operation Family Caregiver targets those caring for an individual with PTSD, TBI, and/or a physical disability. Geographic reach [International] Some initiatives target individuals locally in Georgia; there is a satellite program in Korea. Mission The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving establishes local, state, national, and international partnerships committed to building quality, long-­‐term, home-­‐ and community-­‐based services. RCI believes this begins with making sure caregivers have effective supports to promote caregiver health, skills, and resilience. In addition, the Rosalynn Carter Institute believes strongly in the need to provide greater recognition for professional and family caregivers. Goals RCI seeks to achieve its mission through meeting the following objectives in advocacy, education, research, and service. Advocacy: •
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Reinforce the need for caregivers and the need to support those who give care at local, state, national, and international levels Advocate for the uptake of evidence-­‐based research to address the strain and burdens associated with family, volunteer, and professional caregiving. Education: •
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Develop caregiving curriculum for multiple levels of educational need Provide scholarship opportunities for individuals in the caregiving field and for family caregivers interested in obtaining skill knowledge for their caregiving situation Provide training and certification in selected evidence-­‐based caregiver programs. Research: •
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Provide technical assistance related to translational research targeting evidence-­‐based caregiver programs Contribute to the caregiving field through collaborative partnerships that invest in and support caregiving research. Service: •
Provide caregiver support to individuals through education and advocacy through local, state, and national partnerships. 144
Rosalynn Carter Institute (RCI) for Caregiving
Feature Description Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Structured Education/Training): RCI has launched its Training Center for Excellence, which offers skill-­‐
building, coping, and psychoeducational programs that help caregivers meet the changes and challenges in their—as well as the patients’—lives. Its Caregiving Book Series aims to educate and inform students in caregiving-­‐related fields, as well as professional caregivers. An evidence-­‐informed program called Caring for You, Caring for Me: Education and Support for Family and Professional Caregivers aims to have family and professional caregivers recognize their similarities, universal psychosocial difficulties, and shared rewards associated with all types of caregiving. RCI also offers a range of local/state and national evidence-­‐based programs for caregivers. Operation Family Caregiver: This is specifically focused on military caregivers. Started by RCI in January 2012, Operation Family Caregiver is a training program designed to help improve caregivers’ problem-­‐solving capabilities to reduce depression and improve quality of life. Individual sessions are led by a caregiving coach who works one-­‐on-­‐one with the caregiver via face-­‐to-­‐face, telephone, or Internet contact. The intervention lasts four to six months. The problem-­‐solving intervention is tailored to the families’ needs. The caregiver coach adjusts participants’ training based on individual need. The caregivers get homework and each session builds on the previous lessons learned. Mode of Delivery: Face-­‐to-­‐face (individual and group), Internet, Phone, Printed Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Conference Presentations: Annual National Summit & Training Institute; presents and participates in various other conferences. National Training Center of Excellence: Training for three evidence-­‐based intervention programs for community agency adoption. The RCI staff will come on site or host the training at the Institute for the following programs: RCI REACH (Resources Enhancing Alzheimer’s Caregiver Health): a tailored face-­‐to-­‐face evidence-­‐based program with Caregiver Notebook BRI Care Consultation: a tailored telephonic evidence-­‐based program for Alzheimer’s caregivers Operation Family Caregiver: a tailored evidence-­‐based program for caregivers in military families living with posttraumatic stress, TBI, or a physical disability. GDAS/RCI Evidence-­‐Based Dementia Capable Training: At the beginning of 2012, RCI was asked to partner with the Georgia Division of Aging Services in a System Integration Grant. The goal of this grant is to ensure that the state’s integrated system of services is dementia-­‐capable and understands evidence-­‐based services. National Center on Elder Abuse Resources: RCI has partnered with the National Center on Elder Abuse to create and distribute caregiver-­‐friendly resources that help minimize the risk of abuse and neglect in caregiving situations. Free webinars and other tools for caregivers can be found here. Implementation Tools & Guides: RCI offers many specific tools, guides, podcasts, and manuals to assist agencies with implementation of an evidence-­‐based program to support caregivers. The tools and guides cover a range of caregiver areas, including: Caregiver Assessment, Terms/Definitions, Conference Presentations, Links and Resources. 145
Rosalynn Carter Institute (RCI) for Caregiving
Feature Description Caregiver Intervention Database: This database provides detailed information on interventions that have been tested in a randomized control trial (RCT) and found to positively affect caregiver outcomes. The interventions are sorted into four categories: intervention study only, materials available, materials and training available, and research and development sites. Averting the Caregiver Crisis: Why We Must Act Now: In October 2010, RCI released this report, which reviewed the needs of U.S. caregivers and made 12 recommendations for addressing the caregiving crisis. In 2012, an update to this report was generated, noting the progress made to date and advocating for six strategic initiatives/recommendations. These recommendations call for increased public education regarding caregivers, collecting caregiving data in each state, ensuring that caregivers receive evidence-­‐based, effective support services, financial funding for translational research to support the adoption of evidence-­‐based caregiver support programs in communities, tax credits for caregivers, and sustainable funding streams for community caregiver support programs. Referral Service for Veteran: RCI offers online resource links specifically aimed at the needs of family and professional caregivers. As part of the Operation Family Caregiver intervention, RCI offers web links and information on VA services and benefits. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities RCI conducts various outreach activities, including attending conferences, hosting exhibit booths at events, and utilizing social media and news media. In addition, RCI has found that champions such as members of Congress or military leaders are effective in program outreach. RCI has been conducting outreach to military families since program inception and participates in a range of military activities, from local Yellow Ribbon events to national and international conferences. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 146
Salute, Inc.
Feature Description Website http://www.saluteinc.org Managing office N/A Origination date 2003 History Salute, Inc. was founded in Arlington Heights, IL, by a former Naval Reservist and his wife after experiencing both the stresses of a deployment and the support of family, friends, church, and community. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: OEF/OIF veterans and their families, with an emphasis on wounded, ill, or injured individuals and their families. The veteran must have a VA case manager. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Salute Inc. passionately pursues meeting the financial, physical, and emotional needs of military service members, veterans, and their families. It strives to raise awareness of their sacrifices and provide a safety net to ensure every military family is treated with honor and dignity. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Emergency Financial Assistance (Helping Hand): Salute, Inc. provides emergency financial assistance to veterans and their families for a range of items, such as housing, auto, or utility expenses. Priority is given to individuals or families most in need. Nightingale Program (Helping Hand): The Nightingale Program is a collaborative effort with several private hospitals and rehabilitation centers around the country, providing financial assistance and practical and emotional support to family members of severely injured hospitalized military members receiving specialized long-­‐term treatment. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: If unable to assist directly, Salute Inc. offers veterans and their family members referrals to other organizations. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Outreach activities VA case managers typically facilitate contact with, and referral to, Salute Inc. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 147
Semper Fi Fund
Feature Description Website http://semperfifund.org/ Origination date 2003 History SFF was started when an OIF Marine’s wife, Karen Guenther, and a group of military spouses saw the needs of wounded Marines and sailors returning from Iraq. The group arranged travel for family members who could not afford airfare to the hospital to welcome their returning service members, assisted families who were losing income to remain at the service member’s bedside, and assembled and distributed care bags filled with toiletries and phone cards for service members. Since its inception, SFF has expanded its offerings to include many programs, such as home and vehicle adaptation for service members, dinners out of the hospital for caregivers, and filling service members’ other needs related to their injuries. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Post 9/11 service members with severe injuries or illnesses, or their immediate family members [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international: Program activities across the country and in Landstuhl, Germany, and Japan. Mission SFF’s mission is to assist injured service members and their families in whatever way they need. Goals SFF aims to achieve its mission through the following goals: •
•
•
•
•
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Services for caregivers Provide immediate financial support for injured and critically ill service members and their families (SFF directs urgently needed resources to post-­‐9/11 service members within 24–72 hours of a request.) Assist service members in connecting with education opportunities Assist service members and families in linking with counseling and other treatment if needed for PTSD Adapt housing and vehicles for service members Facilitate structured social support for caregivers at military hospitals Refer service members and families to organizations that provide specialized assistance. Common Caregiving Services (Structured Wellness Activities): SFF started providing recreational services by facilitating dinners away from the hospital for caregivers, providing transportation to and from the dinners and taking the caregivers to restaurants nearby so they are not worried about logistics and getting back if their service member needs them. SFF expanded its offerings by paying for caregiver retreats at spas and other locations. Mode of Delivery: Face-­‐to-­‐face (group and individual) (Helping Hand): SFF provides direct financial assistance for service members’ pressing needs during long hospitalization or rehabilitation. SFF’s financial assistance also helps with additional travel and lodging expenses, child care, and other expenses. Due to loss of income while caregiving, some families use SFF grant money to help pay their mortgages, car payments, utilities, and grocery bills. VA covers a portion of the cost of adapting houses and vehicles based on service members’ needs. 148
Semper Fi Fund
Feature Description SFF also provides funding for families to fly to hospitals to see their service member. In addition, SFF sends service members and their caregivers on vacation and will pay for travel and attendance at military balls or other events. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance (Other): SFF provides Kids Camp for military children. Campers are matched with motivated high-­‐school student mentors who provide guidance on developing tools to be successful in school and in coping with issues that military children frequently face. Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: SFF provides warm handoffs for service members and veterans, and will pay for private care for veterans who do not want to go to VA. Referral Service for Caregiver: SFF also provides warm handoffs for caregivers to a number of organizations. Outreach activities SFF receives referrals from Vet Centers, the Wounded Warrior Regiment, Navy Safe Harbor, the Air Force, and military hospitals, and also participates in a number of military and community events on military bases, medical centers, and Vet Centers. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 149
Semper Max
Feature Description Website http://www.sempermax.com/mission_151.html Managing office N/A Origination date 2009 History SemperMax Support Fund was established in 2009 as a continuation of the legacy of team healing initiated in 2005 by LtCol Tim Maxwell with the concept of the Wounded Warrior Barracks (Maxwell Hall) at Camp Lejeune, NC. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Semper Max aims to enhance morale and welfare of wounded veterans and their families. Goals Attack problems (medical care issues, financial issues, drug/alcohol issues, depression, PTSD, etc.) and form caring connections by advocating and synchronizing multiple solutions. End state-­‐reduced isolation, disenfranchisement from society, and suicide. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Tax Determination Status Nonprofit [Caregiver incidental][Military specific] (Structured Social Support): The Rose Beyond the Thorns™ Spouse and Caregiver Support Group unites caregivers in an environment for shared learning and support. 150
Share The Care
Feature Description Website http://www.sharethecare.org/ Origination date 1988 History Twelve women came together to help a mutual friend—a divorced working mom with two teens and terminal cancer. Over the course of their three and a half years working together, they developed systems and forms so that no one person had too much to do. They became known as “Susan’s Funny Family.” After their friend died, they were asked by another woman in similar circumstances to coach her 20 friends so they could form a “Funny Family” to support her following a bone marrow transplant. In teaching the new group how to replicate their efforts, two of the original group were inspired to write a guidebook so that others could benefit. Share The Care, How to Organize a Group to Care for Someone Who Is Seriously Ill was first published in 1995 by Simon & Schuster, Fireside Books. (The book rights are now owned by the STC organization.) STC has since expanded to include a website; workshops, lectures, and presentations are also available by request. Accredited training is offered to professionals/clergy. Email and telephone support are available. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: All caregivers. The program does serve some military caregivers and hopes to expand its reach to military families and caregivers everywhere. [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Specific injury/illness No: STC can be applied to any circumstance and used for a variety of care-­‐recipient and caregiver needs and situations. Based on feedback from groups, the largest segment of the population that STC serves is people with cancer, followed by people with ALS, brain injuries, Alzheimer’s and dementia. The model is reportedly useful where a great deal of support is required: paraplegia, recovery from surgery, accident, or combat. Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission The mission of STC is to improve the quality of life of anyone who needs support—and to reduce the stress, depression, isolation, and economic hardship of their caregivers. Goals Through education, support, and the dissemination of program materials, inform more people about the rewards of STC’s systems and philosophy. As the aging population doubles to 71 million by 2030, many more caregivers will be needed, but there will be fewer younger people available to fill this role. Making group caregiving a way of life might be a viable option to help ease the oncoming crisis. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services STC Training (Structured Education/ Training): The program provides training to empower professional and nonhired caregivers to start their own Share the Care groups. The training educates people on the Share the Care system. The trainings are scripted and the program has forms and materials to guide that guide the sessions. The training educates caregivers on what they need and who to invite to implement the Share the Care system. The program encourages people to invite everyone they can think of to participate. Usually, Share the Care trains approximately 60 people per session. Share the Care conducted a full-­‐day accredited training on the system for professional caregivers at the VA in Honolulu, HI. 151
Share The Care
Feature Description STC Stations (Structured Education/ Training): Following training, some communities have established an STC Station in their community/county/state to provide STC information and/or coaching to local caregivers and friends. In addition, Station Managers can make STC presentations to interested organizations, clubs and community groups. The purpose of an STC Station is to: •
•
•
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Promote and provide information about STC Coach those who need assistance to get an STC group going Offer local resources and referrals as necessary Collect and help report local group activity. An STC Station can be located anywhere there is a phone, computer, and trained professional or volunteer with caregiving experience. STC offers print advertising and informational materials needed to establish STC Stations locally. STC Stations also offer: •
Three-­‐hour Let’s Get Started workshops for caregivers and two or three of their friends (up to 30 people per session) Email and telephone support Resources, stories, excerpts, 23 STC forms •
•
Services that will be offered in the future include webinars, and classes on DVD. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group and individual), Internet, Phone, Printed Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Share the Care offers a number of materials that include information, resources, and guidance on caregiving. This book offers both a narrative on how the system has been used and detailed guidance on implementing the system. In addition, Share the Care offers information on caregiving on their website and in printed materials that the program distributes at trainings. Outreach activities Many people (e.g., caregivers, patients, professionals) find STC while searching the web. Word of mouth also plays a large role: People who have been in an STC group routinely go on to help start other STC groups; health professionals share information. STC books are often passed around, given away, or borrowed from the local library. STC does seek opportunities to do more outreach to raise awareness about the STC model with military and veterans’ families. Type of organization and funding source Nonprofit 152
Shepherd’s Centers of America
Feature Description Website http://www.shepherdcenters.org/ Origination date 1975 History Since 1971, older adults have contributed to and benefited from the Shepherd’s Center movement. It originated in Kansas City, Missouri, when the senior minister of a large mid-­‐city Methodist congregation recognized the need to redefine and restructure the way Americans approach aging. The minister, The Reverend Elbert C. Cole, understood the post-­‐retirement time in life as spiritually meaningful, potentially healthy and enjoyable, full of new possibilities for learning and for staying current with the rapid changes in this modern world. He also saw these mature years as an opportune time for older adults to share their talents and wisdom to make their communities a better place for everyone. This first Center quickly became a model for others. Today there is a national network of Shepherd’s Centers serving older adults in communities across the United States. The individual Shepherd’s Centers are 501(c) (3) organizations led by independent boards of trustees. Individual centers partner with all faiths representing the diversity of their communities. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: N/A Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission SCA’s mission is to build and support a nationwide network of interfaith community-­‐based centers providing meaning and purpose for adults throughout their mature years. Goals SCA is a network of interfaith community-­‐based organizations that provide meaning and purpose for adults throughout their mature years. SCA’s role is to build and support this nationwide network of member organizations. Shepherd’s Centers all have a commonly understood mission to empower older adults to use their wisdom and skills for the good of their communities. [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Provide technical assistance to new and mature centers. SCA provides the network with weekly news flashes, newsletters, online assistance and web conferences. Many educational and networking opportunities are available at leadership training and at conferences and meetings. Build a national network of member centers. SCA staff and board members provide guidance and mentoring to new member centers in the areas of establishing community partnerships, volunteerism, support structure, governance, program models, marketing and fund development. Create a national presence by building a collaborative network with other regional and national organizations to advocate for the interests of older adults. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Respite Care): Breaktime Club creates a partnership between professionals, volunteers, caregivers, and care receivers to create enrichment and socialization for the dependent care receiver as well as respite for the caregiver. Adult Day Care provides supervised activities for frail older adults during daytime hours. (Helping Hand): SCA offers transportation assistance for patients and their caregivers to travel to medical appointments. 153
Shepherd’s Centers of America
Feature Description SPRINGthing is an annual nationwide Shepherd's Centers program designed by SCA in the early ’90s to provide one-­‐time aid in late April/early May to needy families in a community. Handy Helpers perform minor home repairs. The program links retired crafts persons and older homeowners. Meals on Wheels offers dietetically planned hot meals to the homebound for a nominal fee. (Structured Social Support): Support Groups offer peer support to deal with traumas of later years. Programs deal with strokes, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, spouse loss, weight control, and cancer, among others. (Religious Support): SCA programs are conducted at various faith communities. Religious support is offered to all members and participants. (Structured Wellness Activities): Exercise Classes include senior aerobics, walking, chair exercises, water aerobics, line and square dancing, yoga, tai chi, Senior Olympics, etc. (Structured Education/Training): Equipping Caregivers provides monthly meetings of education and support for those who care for the elderly. Participants are furnished with resources and tools for managing their own self-­‐care and the care of aging persons. Nutrition Education helps maintain healthy lifestyles by encouraging balanced diets and weight control. Healthy Cooking for One is a typical class. Medication and Health Classes conducted by active and retired health professionals alert us to prescription conflicts and effects, illness symptoms, and the need to carefully follow medical instructions and advice. (Other): Partners in Health is a health literacy initiative focusing on personal health management and doctor/patient communications for older adults and their caregivers. Computer Classes teach computer skills to older adults to enable them to access the Internet and to use email and other personal computer programs. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Housing Information provides clearinghouse information to individuals on housing resources and available options. SCA also offers information and links to information on a range of topics. Referral Service for Veteran: Information/Referral or Shepherd's Center Connections is a telephone clearinghouse service to link persons and programs to meet needs. Neighborhood Shepherds visit nearby homebound persons, linking them to services they may need. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 154
Special Operations Command Care Coalition
Feature Description Website http://www.socom.mil Managing office N/A Origination date 2005 History N/A Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: All Special Operations Forces service members who have serious or catastrophic wounds, illnesses, or injuries [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission Special Operations Command Care Coalition’s mission is to provide Special Operations warriors and their families with a model advocacy program to enhance their quality of life and strengthen the overall readiness of Special Operations. Goals Support Special Operations wounded, ill, or injured warriors and their families Support the entire Special Operations family and provide advocacy for life Accomplish their mission in collaboration with government and nongovernment organizations Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Patient Advocacy): Care Coalition provides direct, lifelong assistance to Special Operations personnel who are wounded, ill, or injured, implementing effective follow-­‐up contact and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, medical case managers, and other military agencies. They also provide coordination for medical and nonmedical services, and facilitate smooth rehabilitation and transition back to active duty or civilian life for wounded, ill, or injured Special Operations service members. Care Coalition advocates work closely with wounded, ill, or injured Special Operations service members, their families, and their recovery teams to develop a Comprehensive Recovery Plan. This plan identifies the service member's and family's goals and the resources they need to achieve them, such as assistive technology, education, employment, or housing. The advocate uses the plan to guide wounded, ill, or injured Special Operations service members and their families along the road to recovery, rehabilitation, and return to duty or transition into the civilian community. Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Veteran: Care Coalition provides a web page with resources for service members and their families, and makes referrals as part of its patient advocacy services. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Tax Determination Status Government: DoD/SOCOM 155
Special Operations Warrior Foundation
Feature Description Website http://www.specialops.org Managing office N/A Origination date 1980 History The Special Operations Warrior Foundation was founded in 1980 to provide support and assistance to personnel serving in the U.S. Special Operations Command. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: All Special Operations service members and veterans, and their family members, as well as the families of service members killed in line of duty. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission The Special Operations Warrior Foundation ensures full scholarship grants as well as educational and family counseling to the surviving children of Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps Special Operations personnel who lose their lives in the line of duty, and immediate financial assistance for severely wounded Special Operations personnel and their families. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Patient Advocacy): The Foundation advocates for veterans navigating the VA health care and benefits systems. Mode of Delivery: Phone, Printed (Helping Hand): The foundation provides stipends in the amount of $3,000 to offset the expenses of loved ones of U.S. military special operations service members who are severely wounded while deployed. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance Nonstandard Clinical Care SOWF Counseling Network (Mental Health Care): The Foundation coordinates with professional counselors across the country to create a network of free professional counselors for special operations service members and their families. Eligible service members and family members may access counseling by directly contacting the Foundation. Outreach activities The Foundation works closely with the Special Operation Forces Commands to offer its services. The organization also holds fundraising events and maintains a website. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 156
Sportsmen’s Foundation for Military Families
Feature Description Website http://www.huntforvets.com Origination date 2008 History Danny SantAngelo—a hunting guide, expert outfitter, and owner of the Brady Ranch—founded SFMF. The organization first offered professionally guided hunting outings for veterans and their families, and has expanded its offerings to include a range of outdoor activities, including horseback riding. The game hunted includes boar, turkey, and alligator. Selected veterans and their families stay for free at the Brady Ranch; retreats include free meals. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Combat veterans and their families; immediate family members of a veteran killed in combat [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No: Open to veterans with a range of disabilities (including veterans with no disabilities) and their families Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events: SFMF serves veterans from across the United States at a ranch in Florida that hosts family outdoor activity weekends. Veterans and their families not located in Florida can fly or drive to the ranch—or, in some circumstances, SFMF will reimburse veterans and their families for participating in outdoor retreats close to their homes if it costs less than commuting to the SFMF ranch in Florida. Mission SFMF’s mission is to provide a healing environment through participation in outdoor sports for military veterans and their families. Goals Help veterans and their families develop and hone their coping skills. SFMF sees coping skills as essential for veterans and families in dealing with stress and improving quality of life. Spur communication among veterans and their family members. For many veterans and their families, communication can lower stress. SFMF offers a common activity and experience for veterans and families that can improve short-­‐ and long-­‐term communication. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Structured Wellness Activities): SFMF’s retreats bring veterans and their families together and get them out in the woods. The retreat’s hunting and outdoor activities can be great bonding experiences during the weekend and long after. In order to participate in the retreats, veterans and their families send an application. SFMF reviews the application and offers the retreats to a number of veterans and their families based on circumstances and need. Veterans and their families usually have to pay for transportation to the retreat and the cost of a hunting license if they do not already have one, but the other expenses are covered by SFMF. There is no alcohol allowed during the retreats. This is a strict rule, and it is often instrumental in helping families connect and heal. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) (Structured Social Support): SFMF’s retreats also serve a social function, bonding veterans and their caregivers and families both together and with other military families. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Outreach activities SFMF was featured on the television show, Beyond the Battlefield, which resulted in a surge of applicants. VA also refers veterans to the program, and veterans who participate often refer other veterans. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 157
Strategic Outreach to Families of All Reservists (SOFAR)
Feature Description Website http://www.sofarusa.org Origination date 2004 History Jaine Darwin, former president of the American Psychological Association's Division of Psychoanalysis, and Kenneth Reich, former president of the Psychoanalytic Couples and Family Institute of New England, recognize the Iraq and Afghan wars’ potentially devastating impact on families. That insight led them to form SOFAR, which provides free psychological support and related services to relatives. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Families and loved ones of Army reservists and National Guard deployed in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Kuwait. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events: Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, and Florida Mission SOFAR is a pro bono, mental health project that provides free psychological support, psychotherapy, psychoeducation, and prevention services to extended family of reserve and National Guard deployed during the Global War on Terrorism from time of alert through the period of reunion and reintegration. Their mission is to: •
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Prevent secondary trauma that can affect family members for generations Prepare the family for the return of the soldier Work with the reunited family when the soldier has returned to help them negotiate the difficult process of reintegration. SOFAR is committed to building resilience in families to increase coping skills, and to providing free, completely confidential therapy services when needed. When the soldier serves, the whole family serves. SOFAR serves the families, the hidden casualties of war. Goals The goal of SOFAR is to provide a flexible and diverse range of psychological services to military families to: •
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Foster stabilization Help prevent crises Help manage acute problems. SOFAR views the process of addressing secondary trauma and building resilience among military families as one that demands time and volunteers from a variety of mental health specialties. Services for caregivers Nonstandard Clinical Care (Mental Health Care): SOFAR coordinates the delivery of counseling and support services to families by licensed professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, psychopharmacologists, psychiatric nurses, and social workers. These volunteers lead family support sessions, provide individual counseling services, and refer family members to other licensed professionals outside the SOFAR network if additional assistance is required. SOFAR volunteer clinicians are available to provide individual and family therapy and to lead support groups targeted for families, mothers, and parents while maintaining strict confidentiality. Support groups focus on such topics as stress management, anger management, and general coping skills. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 158
Strength for Caring (SFC)
Feature Description Website http://www.strengthforcaring.com/ Managing office Johnson & Johnson Origination date 1993 History N/A Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: N/A Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission SFC is a comprehensive website designed to provide family caregivers with a broad range of expert content and information, an emerging online community, daily inspiration, and much needed support. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] (Structured Education/Training): This program combines education about cancer—including What is Cancer, how it spreads, how it is treated, and how symptoms can be managed—with support for caregivers of cancer patients. Recognizing that patients are often discharged early from the hospital and that most cancer treatment now takes place in an outpatient setting, this program focuses on giving caregivers tools to cope with their new roles. These tools include nurturing the strength of the caregiver with information on stress management, time management, how to ask for help, and local and national resources. Information on staying healthy and cancer prevention are also included. In addition, a videotape is available that explains the common emotions experienced by caregivers such as anger, depression, and anxiety as a result of role changes. Basic information on caring for a patient at home is included in a separate videotape. A section of the program also deals with end-­‐of-­‐life issues and answers children’s questions about cancer in the family. (Structured Social Support): Strength for Caring offers a Connecting Caregivers website, where caregivers share stories and find support. Caregivers may post messages, ask for advice, and talk to other caregivers via message boards. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The Strength for Caring website offers a range of information and tips on topics such as understanding and coping with one’s caregiving role, balancing work and family, stress relief, comfort and relaxation, diet and wellness, and grief and bereavement. Referral Service for Caregiver: The Strength for Caring website includes a Resource Center where caregivers can find links to other websites and resources. Outreach activities N/A Tax Determination Status For-­‐profit 159
Support and Family Education Program (SAFE)—Mental Health Facts for Families
Feature Description Website http://www.ouhsc.edu/safeprogram/ Origination date 1999 History The SAFE Program, Mental Health Facts for Families, was established as a monthly 1½-­‐hour confidential workshop for family members and friends in the Family Mental Health Program of the Oklahoma City VA Medical Center. The SAFE program structure, with its curriculum, is currently being implemented at VA facilities nationwide. There was no cost associated. All adolescents and adult family members are welcome. After much evaluation, the program is in its third edition. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Populations with common disabling conditions Specific injury/illness Mental health: Family members attending the program have loved ones with quite different mental illnesses, including major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, etc. With the exception of identified sessions on specific mental illnesses (PTSD, depression/bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia), the workshops do not focus on a particular diagnostic category, so all participants can relate well to the discussions. Geographic reach National or international Mission SAFE’s mission is to teach family members and friends of individuals with a mental illness about the symptoms and course of mental illness; to afford family members the opportunity to ask questions about psychiatric disorders and treatment options (medications, therapies, etc.); and to reduce the stigma of mental illness by providing a forum in which to discuss concerns and obtain support from peers. Goals To publicize the availability of mental health services at the VA Medical Center, including the broad continuum of care. [Caregiver incidental] [Military incidental] To help family members understand the importance of early intervention for their loved one, as well as open, timely communication with providers. To link family members with opportunities for support both at the local VA Medical Center and with community resources, including the local NAMI affiliate. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Structured Social Support): SAFE’s workshops are designed to allow peer interaction and support. Participants are able to ask questions of peers within a forum that did not exist before. Participants may continue personal relationships after completion of the SAFE curriculum among peers. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) (Structured Education/Training): The third edition of the SAFE Program consists of 18 workshops, organized into four categories: •
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Information about disorders Skills for family members The experience of caring about some one living with serious mental illness (SMI)/PTSD Dealing with family, friends, and professionals 160
Support and Family Education Program (SAFE)—Mental Health Facts for Families
Feature Description Each 90-­‐minute session can stand alone, and the order of presentation of sessions can vary according to participants’ needs. Session topics include: • What Causes Mental Illness • Depression/Bipolar Disorder and Their Impact on the Family • PTSD and Its Impact on the Family • Communication Tips for Family Members • Limit Setting and Boundaries with Family Members • Problem-­‐Solving Skills for Families • Creating a Low-­‐Stress Environment and Minimizing Crises • What I Can Do When My Family Member Is Angry or Violent • Common Family Reactions to Mental Illness • Dealing with the Stigma Surrounding Mental Illness. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Outreach activities SAFE interacts with commanders of veterans groups and service organizations (such as the DAV, VFW, American Legion, PVA), many of whom are active in rural areas. SAFE encourages veterans to bring family members and discuss the SAFE Program as a team. This allows both the veteran and family member to openly address any fears/concerns/barriers to participation they may have, and for benefits of participation to be emphasized. Tax Determination Status Government: VA 161
Terra Nova Films and Video Caregiving
Feature Description Website http://www.videocaregiving.org/ Origination date 1981 History Terra Nova creates and disseminates videos on aging-­‐related topics. It was founded after the success of one video on caregiving, which led to the creation of more videos on caregiving and a website, Video Caregiving. Today, Video Caregiving has more than 35 videos. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Video Caregiving offers training and educational videos for all types of caregivers. While military caregivers can benefit from the videos, the videos are not specifically aimed at that population. [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Specific injury/illness No: Videos provide information on general caregiving, but also specific to Alzheimer’s. Geographic reach National Mission Video Caregiving uses the visual medium for transferring information. The videos feature real people, not actors, and they teach what to do in different caregiving situations. This material can be very helpful for military populations. Terra Nova is the only company in the world dedicated exclusively to the production and distribution of films and videos on aging and caregiving. Goals Video Caregiving would like to get corporate support, but has not done it yet. The program would love to get corporate investment to make more videos. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Outreach activities Video Caregiving is seeking to reach more people. However, Video Caregiving has not been able to advertise because the program does not have the funding. Any funding that comes in goes toward new videos, so outreach has not been a major emphasis of Video Caregiving. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit (Structured education or training): Video Caregiver offers short educational videos on caregiving activities and issues including how to: lift a care recipient, manage and prevent infections, communicate, and deal with emotional issues. In order to expand the reach of its videos, Terra Nova has translated Video Caregiving materials into Spanish (http://www.videoasistencia.org/). Mode of Delivery: Internet (The caregiving information is delivered through online videos.) 162
The Soldiers Project
Feature Description Website http://www.thesoldiersproject.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2004 History Psychiatrist Dr. Judith T. Broder, started The Soldiers Project in 2004. She paid for a telephone line, started a website and gathered a group of volunteer mental health professionals. They reached out to veterans groups, the VA, military bases, and community venues to raise awareness of the psychological consequences of war and the availability of free, confidential, individualized counseling at private offices throughout Southern California. The Project’s licensed mental health professionals offer free psychotherapy to any military service member/vet who has served in Iraq or Afghanistan. They also offer free therapy to their loved ones—boyfriends, girlfriends, spouses, children, parents and grandparents. There is no red tape, there are no fees, and there is no arbitrary limit on the number of sessions provided. They see individuals, couples, children, and families, configuring therapy to meet the client’s needs. Because they are in private practice, they have the flexibility to see people prior to, during, and after return from deployment, and to keep in touch via phone or the Internet if needed. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Any military service member or veteran who served or will serve in OIF/OEF, including active-­‐duty or members of activated reserve or Guard units from any uniformed branch, as well as veterans of these units and loved ones (spouses, girlfriends/boyfriends, children, siblings, parents, grandparents, and others). [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events: Started in Los Angeles; chapters in Chicago, Long Island, New York City, Washington state, Pennsylvania, Wyoming and Sacramento. The Soldiers Project is hoping that other mental health professionals will be inspired to start similar free mental health treatment groups and reach soldiers and their families throughout the United States. Mission The Soldiers Project is a volunteer group of licensed mental health professionals who offer free psychological treatment to military service members (active duty, National Guard, reserves) and veterans who have served or who expect to serve in the conflicts in Iraq or Afghanistan, and their loved ones. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Other): The Soldiers Project’s Speakers Bureau is made up of clinicians who go out into the community to give presentations to veterans groups, community groups, religious organizations, military bases, medical and public health audiences. Speakers can address the following issues plus others: • PTSD • MST • TBI • Veterans and Higher Education • Moral Injury • Military Culture • Military Children – Unique Issues • Hidden Wounds including PTSD, TBI, Moral Injury 163
The Soldiers Project
Feature Description Nonstandard Clinical Care (Mental Health Care): The Soldiers Project offers consultation and treatment, including individual, couple, and family therapy. If requested, The Soldiers Project can facilitate a support group for loved ones of deployed service members. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The Soldiers Project offers information about mental health, when to get help, and resources for mental health treatment. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 164
Them Bones Veteran Community
Feature Description Website http://www.thembonesveteran.org Managing office N/A Origination date 2001 History N/A Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: N/A Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach Local: Cincinnati, Ohio Mission To [assist] female and male veterans across cultures who are on the journey to wisdom and who want to learn from each other’s experience of war, duty, and conflict. Goals Help veterans deal with addiction, mental illness, and trauma Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] (Religious Support): Them Bones Veteran Community addresses various facets of pain and suffering, including the spiritual dimensions. The organization also offers a group day of spiritual retreat for veterans and their spouse/significant other. Nonstandard Clinical Care (Mental Health Care): Them Bones Veteran Community offers several programs and services related to mental health, including: •
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•
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•
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Individual and couple (spouse/significant other) psychotherapy sessions 12 Steps for War Trauma Group Recovery Support Groups for Spouses of Veterans 3-­‐Week Psycho-­‐Educational Group on Panic Attacks Psycho-­‐Educational Trauma Groups for Veterans Within Local Jails Outreach educational sessions for civic groups seeking to understand the immediate and long-­‐term effects of posttraumatic stress on veterans, their family and the community. No fees are charged for services, but donations are welcomed from recipients of the services. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 165
Today’s Caregiver
Feature Description Website http://www.caregiver.com Managing office N/A Origination date 1995 History The first issue of Today's Caregiver was produced in July 1995. Shortly after that, a corresponding website, Caregiver.com, was created; annual caregiver conferences began in 1998. The founder and editor-­‐in-­‐chief created these initiatives after recognizing, through his own caregiving experiences, that informational and educational needs of family caregivers were not being met. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Family caregivers as well as paid caregivers. The magazine, website (information and resources), books, webinars, and caregiver conferences are available to the general caregiving public. [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international: The magazine and website are nationally available. The caregiver conferences are held at selected locations across the country that are determined based on a community’s need and interest. Mission The mission is to provide information, support, and guidance for family and professional caregivers. Goals The goal is to train caregivers and provide them with needed information and support; empower caregivers; and help caregivers realize they are not alone. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Fearless Caregiver Conference (Structured Education/Training): The organization hosts an annual Fearless Caregiver Conference. The main goal is to train and educate caregivers, thus empowering them to overcome challenges and serve as equal members of their care teams. Local and national experts (including a local VA caregiver coordinator) sit on a panel during these conferences; caregivers in the audience ask questions of the panel and of other caregivers. Thus, the conferences are interactive, and the content of the events is driven by the caregivers in the audience. The editor-­‐in-­‐chief serves as the moderator. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) (Structured Education/Training): Additional activities at the conferences may include: an information and resources room with representatives from national and local organizations, sessions featuring celebrity caregivers or caregiver advocates, lunchtime training sessions centered on various caregiving topics, closing sessions on caregiving techniques and tips (e.g., getting one’s family members involved in caregiving). Webinars (Structured Education/Training): The organization convenes occasional webinars centered on a range of caregiving topics. Mode of Delivery: Internet Corporate training (Other): The organization conducts Fearless Caregiver Training sessions for companies and organizations that provide products and services to caregivers. Trainings may target individuals at various levels within these organizations and typically focus on aligning the mission of a company with supporting caregivers. Caregiver Friendly Awards: The organization provides an annual award to companies that meet caregivers’ needs in an exceptional way—for example, by providing caregiver-­‐friendly devices. Mode of Delivery: Internet, Face to face (group) 166
Today’s Caregiver
Feature Description Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Magazine: Today's Caregiver is a national magazine published every other month featuring an article about a celebrity caregiver or caregiver advocate. Additional articles focus on a range of topics, including caregiving information and tips, health issues, and testimony and poems written by caregivers. The editor-­‐in-­‐chief also writes an ongoing column. Books: The editor-­‐in-­‐chief is the author of two books centered on caregiving: The Fearless Caregiver: How to Get the Best Care for Your Loved One and Still Have a Life of Your Own (2003) and Caregiver Ties that Bind (2013). Web-­‐based information: The organization maintains a website, Caregiver.com, which provides caregiving information posted by Caregiver.com staff. Web users are also able to share information via a CareTips section. Individuals registered with the website are emailed a twice-­‐weekly newsletter (available on the website) as well as listserv communications centered on various caregiving topics. The website also features thought leader interviews in audio and video format. Referral Service for Veteran: The website hosts an online resources database which lists resources for both caregivers and their loved ones. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. The database includes, among other services, a number of caregiver support groups. Outreach activities Participants may discover the magazine and corresponding initiatives through web searches, the organization’s webinars, or speaking engagements of the editor-­‐in chief, as well as by word of mouth. Tax Determination Status For-­‐profit 167
USA Cares
Feature Description Website http://www.usacares.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2003 History USA Cares was launched through a grassroots partnership among the management of WAVE-­‐3 TV (NBC) in Louisville, Kentucky; Kroger Food Stores—Mid-­‐South Division; and the Fort Knox Chapter of the Association of the United States Army. The organization was dubbed Kentuckiana Cares, with a goal to raise funds to help military families in financial crisis through the sale of Support Our Troops yard signs. While $121,000 was raised, the need for assistance proved greater than the original initiative could meet. In October 2003, a new 501(c)(3) national organization, now known as USA Cares, was created, featuring a toll-­‐free call center to process the increasing number of requests for assistance. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Military service members, veterans, and their families Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National Mission USA Cares exists to help bear the burdens of service by providing post-­‐9/11 military families with financial and advocacy support in their time of need. Goals Help restore financial stability and self-­‐sufficiency by giving a hand up. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Reach families at the earliest stage of intervention to prevent further financial distress and suffering, especially for the combat-­‐injured and their families. Services for Common Caregiving Services Emergency Assistance Program (Helping Hand): This Emergency Assistance program pays immediate, essential bills, including food and utility bills. Priority is given to cases where the financial stress is related to military service. USA Cares typically assist these emergencies with between $20,000 and $30,000 per week with an average grant size of $650. Combat Injured Program (Helping Hand:): The Combat Injured Program provides grant assistance specifically to active military and veterans who have been referred to a VA-­‐approved inpatient treatment program for PTSD, TBI and/or MST. The program pays their basic expenses such as mortgage/rent, food, and utilities, enabling them to receive treatment and be assured their family is taken care of. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Caregiver: USA Cares maintains a call center dedicated to the millions of Americans who have service members in their family. Trained and experienced Family Resource Coordinators mentor, coach, and provide the friendly voice helping those families that may not even know the right question to ask. Our resource coordinators often identify services and benefits, in addition to USA Cares support, that benefit clients, thereby leveraging the total assistance delivered. Outreach activities Tax Determination Status USA Cares is always looking for more effective ways to reach the post-­‐9/11 veterans and their families who might at some time need help. Likewise, it is always looking to reach out to the American public who understand why help is sometimes needed and who donate their time, treasure, or talent to assist this deserving 1 percent of the population who protect the remaining 99 percent at home. The Dennis Miller show has been used for both, giving the organization publicity. Nonprofit 168
USO Warrior and Family Care
Feature Description Website http://www.uso.org/warriorandfamilycare/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2009 (Warrior and Family Care) History USO leadership realized through discussions with the military community that there was a growing need for services for wounded, ill, and injured service members, veterans, and their families, particularly during the reintegration period. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Wounded, ill, or injured service members or veterans, and their family members and caregivers. [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission USO Warrior and Family Care is a comprehensive, long-­‐term program that supports the continuum of care that helps provide wounded, ill, or injured warriors with the hope and confidence to sustain their journey toward a full and rewarding life. Goals USO Warrior and Family Care provides programming in the following areas: •
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Services for caregivers Physical health and recreation Behavioral health support Family strengthening Education Employment Community reintegration. Common Caregiving Services 2013 USO Caregiver Conference (Structured Social Support): The USO Caregiver Conference is held in different locations twice annually. It is open to spouses and caregivers of wounded, ill, or injured service members or veterans. The goals of the conference are to: •
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Lift the spirits of caregivers experiencing similar challenges by connecting them with others in similar situations Provide expert advice to caregivers, medical staff, and family members who are caring for a wounded, ill, or injured loved one Introduce caregivers to a variety of support organizations they can rely on for more assistance. The caregiver conference features a number of speakers, as well as structured sessions on a range of topics such as art therapy and journaling. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Team Red, White and Blue Events (Structured Wellness Activities): USO partners with Team Red, White and Blue to host community events that include service members, veterans, and their caregivers. These events engage participants in activities such as trail running, hiking, or yoga. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) 169
USO Warrior and Family Care
Feature Description Easter Seals Caregiver Curriculum (Structured Education/Training): The USO has partnered with Easter Seals and Atlas Research to develop a series of four in-­‐person training sessions for caregivers of wounded service members. Sessions are designed to be interactive and engaging, offering those in attendance valuable tools and resources. The core session focuses on the importance of the caregiving role and what caregivers can do for themselves to ensure that they maintain a balanced lifestyle. The workshop explores topics such as eating well, exercising/moving around, blood pressure/cholesterol, emotional well-­‐being, and identifying a circle of support. This training session is available in English and Spanish. The three additional sessions highlight: •
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Managing challenging behaviors: TBI and PTSD Stress management for the caregiver Communicating with your children All materials are provided in a workbook format. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The USO Caregiver Conference provides information on a range of topics, such as caregiver benefits and stress-­‐relieving tips, and communicating with a loved one. Outreach activities USO Warrior and Family Care utilizes social media, maintains a website, and staffs a media team that issues press releases and other outreach materials. USO also reaches its target populations via Warrior Transition Units, the military’s wounded warrior programs, local USO offices, and its network of trusted partners. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 170
VA Caregiver Support Program
Feature Description Website http://www.caregiver.va.gov/ Origination date Launched in 2007; expanded significantly in February 2011 History In May, 2010, President Obama signed the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act, which directed the VA Secretary to establish two programs assisting family caregivers of veterans. The first program, the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers, supports family caregivers of veterans who were seriously injured in the line of duty on or after September 11, 2001, and are in need of personal care services. The second program, the Program of General Caregiver Support Services, provides support and assistance to family caregivers of veterans of all eras. These programs together are VA’s Caregiver Support Program, which supports the funding of a series of pilot programs to provide assistance and support for family caregivers of veterans. The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers has allowed VA to provide the following services: •
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A veteran may designate one family member as the primary personal care provider and up to two secondary family caregivers VA can monitor the well-­‐being of each veteran receiving personal care services, and take corrective actions as necessary Outreach efforts can inform eligible veterans and family members of the program VA can develop and submit to the congressional veterans committees a plan for the implementation of the comprehensive assistance program and report annually to such committees on plan implementation VA can submit a one-­‐time report on the feasibility and advisability of expanding the program to cover veterans who have a serious injury incurred or aggravated before September 11, 2001. The Act also authorized the following services: •
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Target population(s) Additional assistance for the primary personal care provider, including mental health services, respite care, and a monthly stipend comparable to that provided to commercial home health aides in that geographic area Authorizes the VA Secretary to provide VA medical care for a designated primary provider of personal care services who is not entitled to care or services under a health plan contract Eligibility for VA counseling and mental health services for family caregivers of veterans The VA Secretary is also authorized to reimburse attendants for travel expenses, including lodging and subsistence, in connection with authorized VA treatment for veterans. General eligibility criteria: Caregivers for veterans. Eligibility criteria vary by initiative. The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers provides additional supports and services to family caregivers of eligible veterans injured in the line of duty on or after September 11, 2001. [Caregiver Specific] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No: Some additional VA services are only available for seriously injured post-­‐9/11 veterans and their family caregivers through the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers; VA offers additional materials and guidance for caregivers of veterans with TBI, including a uniform training curriculum titled, Traumatic Brain Injury: A Guide for Caregivers of Service Members and Veterans Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission The Program’s mission is to promote the health and well-­‐being of family caregivers who care for the nation’s veterans, through education, resources, support, and services. 171
VA Caregiver Support Program
Feature Description Goals The VA Caregiver Support program’s goals are to: •
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Services for caregivers Enable veterans to live at home in the community Address the unique needs of caregivers by offering a specified programs and services Promote the health and well-­‐being of veterans and caregivers Offer information in a single location Offer training and information on common conditions Decrease caregiver isolation through professional and peer support Provide options to give respite to caregivers Raise health care providers’ awareness of the sensitivities associated with the caregiver; and role. Common Caregiving Services (Respite Care): VA offers a variety of respite services to support family caregivers: •
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Respite Services: Caregivers of veterans who require personal care are eligible to receive up to 30 days of respite care per year. The respite may take place at a range of settings including at home, through temporary placement of a veteran at a VA Community Living Center, a VA-­‐contracted Community Residential Care Facility, or at an Adult Day Health Care Center. VA will also provide respite in cases of a caregivers’ unexpected hospitalization, need to go out of town, or family emergencies. Home Hospice Care: The VA Caregiver Support Program offers Home Hospice Care for veterans during the advanced stages of a veteran’s terminal disease. Respite care providers in the Home Hospice Care Program are trained and experienced in end-­‐of-­‐life care. Home Hospice Care includes an interdisciplinary team of health care providers and volunteers from local community hospice agencies that provide 24-­‐hour services, seven days a week. Homemaker and Home Health Aide Program: VA’s Homemaker and Home Health Aide Program provides respite for caregivers by assisting veterans with personal care needs like bathing and dressing. Local VA medical centers work with caregivers to schedule a home health aide to visit veterans’ homes and help them with their personal care. Adult Day Health Care (ADHC) Centers: VA offers ADHC Centers that provide a social environment with constant supervision for veterans and an opportunity for respite for caregivers. ADHC Center care professionals assess veterans’ rehabilitation needs and work with veterans to set and accomplish goals related to their care and independence. ADHC centers are generally open Monday through Friday during normal business hours. The Skilled Home Care service provides a medical professional who comes to veterans’ and family caregivers’ homes to help care for homebound veterans. Some of the care a veteran can receive includes basic nursing services and physical, occupational, or speech therapies. To be eligible for this service, a veteran must be homebound, which means he or she has difficulty traveling to and from appointments and so is in need of receiving medical services at home. The Skilled Home Care service is similar to Home-­‐Based Primary Care, but it involves VA purchasing care for a veteran from a licensed non-­‐VA medical professional. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual and group) (Helping Hand): VA Caregiver Support reimburses caregivers of eligible post-­‐9/11 veterans and service members for travel expenses (including lodging and per diem while accompanying veterans while they undergo care). Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance 172
VA Caregiver Support Program
Feature Description (Financial Stipend): VA Caregiver Support offers a Primary Family Caregiver Stipend for eligible caregivers for providing personal care services to eligible veterans who are enrolled in the program. Veterans are eligible for the program if they sustained a serious injury (including TBI, psychological trauma, or other mental disorder) that was incurred or aggravated while serving on or after September 11, 2001. They must also require personal care services for one or more activities of daily living and/or need supervision or protection based on symptoms or residuals of neurological impairment or injury. To be eligible for the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers, veterans must first be enrolled for VA health services, if not enrolled previously. The amount of the Primary Family Stipend is based on the level of personal care services required by the veteran. The stipend is tiered into three levels. The veteran is assessed by their treatment team to determine his or her tier level. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance (Structured Social Support): VA Caregiver Support launched its Peer Support Mentoring Program in January 2012 to match new caregivers with more experienced caregivers. Mentors are supported by the National Peer Support Mentor Program Manager. As of October 2013, 42 peer mentor/caregiver dyads were under way. The program also facilitates a number of caregiver and family support groups that meet at VA Medical Centers to address caregiver burnout and depression. The VA Caregiver Support program hosts a website, http://www.caregiver.va.gov, that provides support resources, tips and tools, as well as caregiver stories and videos. VA Caregiver Support Program also hosts events as part of National Family Caregivers Month every November. In November 2012, the program hosted more than 450 caregiver events across the country; more than 14,400 caregivers participated. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual and group), Internet (Structured Education/Training): VA offers Home Telehealth to provide veterans access to clinical services via telephone or computer in their homes. The Home Telehealth aims to reduce the travel burden for veterans and their family caregivers who live far away from VA Medical Centers. Home Telehealth services can also include education and training or online and telephone support groups. Caregivers of eligible post-­‐9/11 veterans and service members are required to complete the Core Curriculum training as part of the application process for the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. The Caregiver Support Line Telephonic Caregiver Education Groups are held twice a month on various topics related to the overarching theme of Care for the Caregiver. REACH VA is a VA Caregiver Support training program designed to provide education support and teach problem-­‐solving for caregivers of veterans with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and spinal cord injury. VA has also contracted the National Council on Aging (NCOA) to host Building Better Caregivers, a web-­‐based workshop designed to provide education and teach problem-­‐solving to caregivers of veterans of all eras. VA also hosts live satellite trainings on various caregiver issues, including PTSD, TBI and family relationships, and pain management. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group), Internet, Phone 173
VA Caregiver Support Program
Feature Description (Other): VA’s Caregiver Support Line (1-­‐855-­‐260-­‐3274) provides assistance to caregivers over the phone. The VA Caregiver Support Line provides caregivers with information about their eligibility for VA, connects caregivers to services and local Caregiver Support Coordinators, and listens to caregiver issues and concerns. The line is toll-­‐free and open Monday through Friday 8 a.m.–11 p.m. Eastern Time, and Saturday 10:30 a.m.– 6 p.m. After-­‐hours calls to the Caregiver Support Line are forwarded to the VA Crisis Line, and caregivers are linked with the support and resources they need. As of October 3, 2013, the line has received more than 97,000 calls. VA Caregiver Support launched the VA Mobile Health Family Caregiver Pilot in May 2013 for family caregivers participating in the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. The program selected more than 1,100 caregivers to participate in the pilot. Caregivers received VA-­‐loaned iPads loaded with a suite of nine apps to test over a 12-­‐month period. The apps are designed to support various needs of caregivers and veterans, provide secure access to health care information, and track and share personal health-­‐related information. Nonstandard Clinical Care (Health Care): Family caregivers of eligible post-­‐9/11 veterans and service members can access health care insurance (if the caregiver is not already entitled to care or services under a health care plan) through CHAMPVA. (Mental Health Care): Throughout VA, there are many services available to family caregivers and family members who support veterans. Services may be available at Vet Centers, through mental health and family services at VA medical centers, and through linkage to community resources. Primary and Secondary Family Caregivers of eligible post-­‐9/11 veterans and service members may receive mental health services and counseling through the Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers program. Both individual and group psychotherapy and counseling are offered. Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Caregiver: VA Caregiver Support Coordinators match caregivers with eligible services and provide information about caregiver resources. Outreach activities The VA Caregiver Support Program uses its website to connect caregivers with local Caregiver Support Coordinators through the ZIP code–based locator. The website also lists contact information for the support line, which is one of the main referral streams for the program. The program also conducts outreach via its partner organizations through referrals and dissemination of program information. As of September 30, 2013, more than 26,000 subscribers are participating in a listserv as part of the website. Tax Determination Status Government: VA 174
VA OEF/OIF/OND Care Management Program
Feature Description Website http://www.oefoif.va.gov/map.asp Managing office N/A Origination date 2007 History N/A Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Severely ill, injured, or impaired service members and veterans, with a focus on OEF/OIF/OND service members and veterans [Caregiver incidental]]Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission The Program’s mission is to transition the health care of injured and ill returning combat-­‐service members and veterans from DoD to the VA health care system. Goals Provide appropriate health and mental health care services to veterans who served in OEF and OIF. Coordination of those services is to be ensured by the OEF-­‐OIF Care Management Team at each facility led by the OEF-­‐OIF Program Manager. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Patient Advocacy): Nurses or social workers serve as care managers to organize patient care activities and help veterans navigate their way through the VA system. Care managers work closely with military treatment facilities and DoD to ensure that veterans make a seamless transition. Every VA Medical Center has an OEF/OIF/OND Care Management Team ready to welcome OEF/OIF/OND veterans and help coordinate their care. Each team consists of a program manager and care managers. OEF-­‐OIF care management is a distinct and customized approach to managing care for veterans or active-­‐duty service members, whose needs are usually multiple, complex, and resource intensive. Tax Determination Status Government: VA 175
VeteranCaregiver.com
Feature Description Website http://veterancaregiver.com/ Origination Date 2010 History N/A Target Population(s) General eligibility criteria: Caregivers for veterans of every era, and also single veterans (often female vets or unmarried National Guard and reserve members) who lack a caregiver but require support. [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] Specific Injury/Illness No: Veteran Caregiver serves caregivers for individuals with a range of injuries and illnesses, with predominant guidance for those seeking help with PTSD, TBI, MST, housing, mobility, and aging issues. Geographic Reach National or international Mission Veteran Caregiver seeks to provide peer-­‐to-­‐peer support for veterans’ caregivers and those veterans lacking a caregiver. Veteran Caregiver educates, advocates, coordinates, and navigates the medical system side by side through a vast network of contacts nationwide and beyond. Goals Veteran Caregiver aims to achieve its mission through the following goals: •
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Services for caregivers Provide peer-­‐to-­‐peer support and share best practices and guidance on the daily challenges of military/veteran caregiving Educate veterans and caregivers on how to best locate and navigate VA, state, and community resources, while also providing the latest in PTSD, TBI, MST, chronic pain, and presumptive conditions for greater understanding by families. Guide families to previously unknown resources and advocate/support solutions for overcoming hurdles to obtaining services. Provide a safe place for caregivers to ask questions, gain information, and nonjudgmentally air frustrations on-­‐ and offline. Provide crisis assistance and suicide prevention via a memorandum of understanding with the VA Crisis Line (and alternative crisis lines). Veteran Caregiver facilitates connection via a warm handoff to clinical resources, often in the evenings and on weekends. Common Caregiving Services (Structured Social Support): The program connects caregivers and veterans with peers through live chats, message boards, and an online community forum. Mode of Delivery: Phone, Internet Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal informational source: Veteran Caregiver guides caregivers individually by phone and email through the caregiving and the veteran services’ bureaucracy and provides information on how to best communicate with VA and DoD. Guidance is offered via experts in legal, medical, housing, financial, disability, appeals, and other topics through a vast network of contacts nationwide. Outreach activities Veteran Caregiver uses social media, Internet links, and the weekly radio broadcast to an audience of 6 million to conduct formal outreach (broadcasts are archived in iTunes for availability beyond the live broadcast). Word of mouth from previously assisted caregivers provides informal outreach on an ongoing basis. The program emphasizes keeping communication on social media sites positive, informative, realistic, and uplifting. Tax Determination Status Unknown 176
Virginia Navigator
Feature Description Website www.virginianavigator.org Managing office N/A Origination date N/A History N/A Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: N/A Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach Local: Virginia Mission Virginia Navigator aims to provide free health and community support information and guidance to seniors, caregivers, adults with disabilities, and their families while supporting independence, dignity, and quality of life. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] (Structured Social Support): Virginia Navigator hosts an online Caregiver Forum, where caregivers can post questions and answers and connect with other caregivers. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The Virginia Navigator website offers articles with caregiver-­‐specific advice, including Balancing Work and Caregiving, tips for ADLs, and doctor’s office checklists. It also includes an Ask an Expert section, where caregivers can ask questions about health and caregiving topics. Virginia Navigator also disseminates a twice-­‐monthly E-­‐Quick Tips online newsletter for seniors, family caregivers, and people with disabilities. Referral Service for Veteran: The Virginia Navigator website offers a Resources section, where caregivers can find a range of services for themselves and their care recipient. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 177
Virginia Wounded Warrior Program
Feature Description Website http://www.wearevirginiaveterans.org/ Managing office Virginia Department of Veterans Services Origination date 2008 History The Virginia Wounded Warrior Program (VWWP) was created by the Governor of Virginia and the 2008 Virginia General Assembly to ensure that services to veterans and their families are readily available in all areas of the state. It is operated by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: •
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Veterans of any era who are Virginia residents Members of the Virginia National Guard not in active federal service Virginia residents in the Armed Forces Reserves not in active federal service Family members of veterans and members of the Guard and Reserve [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach Local: Virginia Mission The Virginia Wounded Warrior Program, in cooperation with the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services and the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services, monitors and coordinates behavioral health and rehabilitative services and support services through an integrated, comprehensive, and responsive system of public and private partnerships. VWWP facilitates these services for Virginia veterans, members of the Virginia National Guard and Armed Forces Reserves (not in federal service), and their families with a special emphasis on those affected by stress-­‐related conditions or TBI resulting from military service. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services Case Management and Care Coordination (Patient Advocacy): The VWWP provides case management and care coordination for veterans and family members seeking health care or behavioral health care. When a veteran, family member, or caregiver presents with a problem or need, the program conducts an individual needs assessment. Local VWWP coordinators then interface with the veteran, family member, or caregiver to refer them to the appropriate resources and facilitate care. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual), Phone, Internet Financial Assistance (Helping Hand): One-­‐time limited financial assistance is available to veterans and their families who are engaged with VWWP. Program staff verify a need for financial assistance, and confirm that these individuals have a plan for long-­‐term sustainment. VWWP typically pays the vendor directly for bill(s) incurred by the veteran or family member. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance Veteran and Family Member Groups (Structured Social Support): VWWP runs veteran and family member groups, which are designed to provide attendees with information and social support. Local peer specialists advertise the group, help the group to define an agenda, and facilitate group meetings. Groups may bring in speakers (e.g., resource specialists) or engage in a range of social activities. Groups typically target either veterans or their family members. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) 178
Virginia Wounded Warrior Program
Feature Description Mission Healthy Relationships and Mission Healthy Families (Other): VWWP partnered with Virginia Commonwealth University to develop curricula aimed at improving relationships between couples and families. The curricula, Mission Healthy Relationships and Mission Healthy Families, are offered at quarterly weekend retreats at various locations throughout Virginia. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: VWWP maintains a news section of their website with links to a range of information of interest to veterans and their family members or caregivers. Referral Service for Veteran: VWWP maintains a resources page for veterans and their family members or caregivers. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. This is an area of focus and development for VWWP in 2014. Outreach activities VWWP receives self-­‐referrals, as well as referrals from family and community members. VWWP staff attend military community events such as Yellow Ribbon Reintegration events and VA Stand Downs. The program also has strong connections with staff at VA Community Based Outpatient Clinics and at military treatment facilities. Tax Determination Status Government: Virginia Department of Veterans Services 179
Well Spouse Association (WSA)
Feature Description Website http://www.wellspouse.org/ Origination date 1988 History WSA was founded by spousal caregiver Maggie Strong, who wrote a book called Mainstay: For the Well Spouse of the Chronically Ill, one of the first published books about spousal caregivers. She started WSA with a core group of about 20 people in Pennsylvania. Today, WSA has 3,000 members and continues to grow its membership base and expand its geographic reach—recently starting its first overseas support group, in Tokyo, Japan. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Spousal caregivers Specific injury/illness No: WSA offers services to caregivers for those with any illness or injury. Military spousal caregivers frequently care for veterans with PTSD, TBI, and amputation. Geographic reach National or international Mission The WSA mission is to provide emotional peer-­‐to-­‐peer support to the wives, husbands, and partners of the chronically ill and/or disabled. In addition, WSA aims to advocate for and address the needs of individuals caring for a chronically ill and/or disabled spouse/partner. As part of this mission, WSA educates health care professionals and the general public about well spouses’ unique challenges, needs, and interests. Goals WSA targets the following goals: [Caregiver specific] [Military incidental] •
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Services for caregivers Coordinate a national network of support groups Facilitate a mentor program Publish a newsletter and e-­‐newsletter Host online forums with a chat room for spousal caregivers and resources for coping and survival skills. Arrange regional respite weekends and a national conference for caregivers Provide continuing support for members whose spouses have died Advocate on behalf of spousal caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Structured Wellness Activities): WSA organizes respite weekends around the country for members. WSA’s respite activities are free; the only cost of the respite weekends for the well spouses is for transportation and the hotel rooms. Annual membership dues are $30/year or $55/two years, but well spouses can apply for $5 if they have a financial hardship. Membership for military caregivers is free for the first year. WSA offers stipends to attend conferences and respite weekends. The number of stipends offered depends on budget and are determined by a committee, based on members’ experiences and need. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) (Structured Social Support): Participation in all WSA programs requires a supporting membership. Members participate in peer-­‐to-­‐peer support through the WSA online forum. WSA also has telephone support groups for current and former caregivers, and is looking to start a telephone support group for younger members. WSA has approximately 40 support groups that meet in-­‐person across the United States and one group that meets in Tokyo. These support groups often have guest speakers, including psychologists and ministers. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group and individual), Internet, Phone 180
Well Spouse Association (WSA)
Feature Description (Structured Education/Training): WSA hosts an annual national conference, which includes a training session for military caregivers. The training covers caregiver best practices, navigating VA, self-­‐help, and how to contact your congressman. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Information, Resources, and Guidance Referral Service for Caregiver: WSA has a Wounded Worriers page on their website for military well spouses and caregivers that offers referral information for caregivers. Outreach activities WSA conducts the following outreach efforts to publicize the program: Tax Determination Status Nonprofit: Supported through membership fees, individual donations, foundation and corporate grants, bequests, endowments, and commemorative gifts •
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Disseminating flyers and newsletters Setting up exchange of website links with people and organizations Contacting other caregiver and disease-­‐focused organizations Attending caregiving organization meetings and events Writing responses to blog posts and letters to the editor in response to articles Presentations to the general public, professionals, and other informal caregivers. 181
Wounded Heroes Foundation (WHF)
Feature Description Website http://www.woundedheroesfund.net/ Managing office Chicago, IL Origination date 2007 History N/A Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Service members and their families Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National Mission WHF helps meet the needs of these wounded heroes and their families during the difficult recovery time by offering physical, emotional and financial support. It is their mission to pay tribute to wounded heroes’ service by enhancing their recovery wherever possible. Goals WHF strives to ensure heroes’ American Dream as they have ensured the nation’s. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] (Helping Hand): WHF purchases plane tickets and hotel rooms to allow families to be together during trips to medical facilities. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance (Structured Wellness Activities): WHF regularly takes small groups of wounded service members, and in some instances family members, out to dinner, sports events, fishing, golfing, and other recreational activities. WHF has also organized meet-­‐and-­‐greets with celebrities such as Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Toby Keith, Gary Sinise, Dan Worley, Charlie Daniels, and Neil McCoy for recovering troops and their families; and have brought wounded heroes to Washington, D.C., to share their story with federal leaders and tour the West Wing of the White House. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: The Wounded Heroes Foundation has partnered with Easter Seals Community OneSource to help deliver assistance to injured service members and veterans. Easter Seals Community OneSource provides service members, veterans, and their families with information, system and resource navigation, and personalized follow-­‐up support as they reintegrate into their home communities. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 182
Wounded Heroes Fund (WHF)
Feature Description Website http://thewoundedheroesfund.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2008 History Wendy Porter, the daughter of a Vietnam veteran, realized that more needed to be accomplished, especially for service members and their families to resume life after war. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Wounded, ill, or service-­‐injured post-­‐911 veterans in Kern County, CA. Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach Local: Kern County, CA Mission The Fund’s mission is to act as a service organization for those veterans affected by the war on terror in an effort to provide them with support and appreciation they need in their return to civilian life. Goals N/A Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] (Helping Hand): The Wounded Heroes Fund provides financial assistance to wounded, ill, or injured veterans and their families. The assistance is designed to aid these individuals during the post-­‐deployment period. To receive assistance, veterans or their family members must complete a grant request form and provide documentation of military separation (DD214), VA Medical Review Board disability rating paperwork, and records of military service (e.g., Officer Record Brief or Enlisted Record Brief). Upon approval, the financial assistance is awarded to a vendor or, in some instances, directly to the veteran. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance Outreach activities The Wounded Heroes Fund relies on its relationships with local veterans’ organizations and local speaking engagements to provide outreach and create awareness of its services. The organization also maintains a website. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 183
Wounded Warrior Project (WWP)
Feature Description Website http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/ Origination date 2003 History WWP was founded by a group of veterans, family members, and friends in Roanoke, VA. One of the founders’ first conversations with the board of directors was whether to include family members and caregivers as a distinct population that the organization serves. Right from the initial conversations about the organization’s mission, families and caregivers were designated as an integral cohort of the population the organization serves. In 2007, WWP held a summit on TBI where the organization brought 20 families from across the county to Washington, D.C., to discuss their issues and concerns with Virginia lawmakers. One of the key themes from the summit was the extent of caregiver sacrifice. After that, WWP began advocating for legislation to increase caregiver services and resources. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Veterans and service members who incurred a physical or mental service-­‐connected injury while serving on or after September 11, 2001, and their families. [Caregiver incidental] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National with local branches, offices, or events Mission WWP’s mission is to honor and empower wounded warriors. Goals WWP aims to fulfill its mission through meeting the following goals: •
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Services for caregivers Raising awareness and enlisting the public's aid for the needs of injured service members and veterans Connecting injured service members and veterans Providing unique, direct programs and services for injured service members Building military caregivers’ resilience and strengthening their network of resources. Common Caregiving Services (Respite): WWP’s Independence Program provides in-­‐home therapy for severely injured veterans. The program offers individualized therapy based on what the veteran can achieve. This program is beneficial to caregivers because it provides respite while the veteran receives care. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual) (Patient Advocacy): WWP provides benefits liaisons who work with caregivers to navigate the VA Caregiver Support Program and ensure that they apply for all the benefits for which they are entitled. WWP benefits liaisons answer questions and provide information about the program. Caregivers and veterans can meet with benefits liaisons in person or over the phone. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual), Phone (Structured Social Support): WWP’s all-­‐expense-­‐paid Family Support Retreats provide military families with rest, respite, and a supportive environment of peers. The retreats are one-­‐day events hosted at numerous locations around the country. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) (Structured Education/Training): During the Family Support Retreats, family members and caregivers receive training on self-­‐help skills, ways to distress, and coping. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) (Other): WWP’s backpack program now has family caregiver totes for family members. They include blanket, phone cards, and coffee. 184
Wounded Warrior Project (WWP)
Feature Description Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: WWP Resource Center provides information for service members, veterans, and their caregivers and families. The Resource Center provides information on both internal and external organizations and resources. All external organizations and resources on which WWP provides information have been vetted by the National Resource Directory. Referral for veterans: The Resource Center provides referrals for veterans and service members. Referral for caregivers: The Resource Center also provides referrals for caregivers. Outreach activities WWP conducts a number of outreach activities. Family Support staff members attend Yellow Ribbon events and welcome home parties. WWP has public service announcements and disseminates program information through many of its partners. WWP also emails all members about current program activities and has a strong presence on social media. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 185
Wounded Warriors Family Support (WWFS)
Feature Description Website http://www.woundedwarriorsfamilysupport.org/ Origination date 2003 History WWFS was founded by Col. John Folsom to benefit U.S. soldiers at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany, which is the first stop for wounded military personnel from Iraq and Afghanistan before returning to the United States. Since its inception, WWFS has grown into a national organization that serves wounded veterans and their families, offering services through the Caregiver Respite Program and WWFS Family Retreats. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Veterans must have a combat-­‐related disability and the families must include dependent children. [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach National or international Mission WWFS’s mission is to provide support to the families of those who have been wounded, injured, or killed during combat operations. The families of these casualties suffer in many ways—some financially, some psychologically. The Caregiver Respite Program augments WWFS’s mission by providing respite and supplemental services to the families and caregivers of wounded warriors. Respite is short-­‐term and temporary relief in the form of child care, secondary caregiver assistance, respite aid for remote areas or pre-­‐9/11 veterans, family and caregiver retreats, and supplemental caregivers as may be needed. Goals Support and assist caregivers of wounded veterans, offering aid and temporary relief to caregivers as well as assistance in enrolling in VA caregiver support services and other agencies offering resources and support. Provide wounded warriors and their families a peaceful place to heal and reconnect with each other, allowing them an escape from the stress they face every day and an opportunity to become stronger as individuals and families. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services (Respite Care): WWFS provides assistance in enrolling families in the VA Comprehensive Caregiver and Respite Program. In addition, WWFS advocates for greater understanding of the needs specific to wounded warriors, and works with local health care agencies to help match those agencies to families. WWFS will also pay if the family is not eligible for VA respite services, or if those services do not meet all the needs of veterans and their families. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual and group) (Helping Hand): WWFS offers housing for military families to use on short-­‐term vacations. WWFS owns five fully furnished condominium units for use by the families of wounded or injured veterans and widows and families of fallen heroes. Preference goes to those with children and the greatest financial need. Four of these units are in the Bahama Bay Resort near Universal Studios, Wet ’n Wild Orlando, and Sea World in Orlando, Florida. Passes are provided to families free of charge. Mode of Delivery: Housing assistance (Financial Stipend): WWFS provides financial stipends for caregiving and child care. WWFS calculates wages and stipends to support child care or caregiving in different circumstances that are not covered under the VA respite programs. Sometimes WWFS pays a family member a stipend for respite. Making respite a paying job takes out the emotional factor, which can be an issue in many families. 186
Wounded Warriors Family Support (WWFS)
Feature Description In addition, WWFS will pay mileage to support caregivers or family members driving veterans to appointments, therapy, or recreational programs. Mode of Delivery: Financial assistance (Structured Social Support): WWFS arranges lunches and other group activities for caregivers and families. The structured social support activities include outings at indoor water parks, camping, tailgates, baby showers, and spa days. WWFS Respite Program also has a strong presence on Facebook, which serves as a community forum for caregivers. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual and group), Internet, Phone (Structured Wellness Activities): WWFS also offers respite retreats for the entire family and for just the caregivers. These include free time for the caregivers to enjoy without focusing on their caregiver role. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: WWFS has an online resource and information guide for veterans and military families. Referral Service for Veteran: WWFS refers veterans to VA and other community resources. Referral Service for Caregiver: WWFS refers caregivers to VA and other community resources and screens families to match them with the appropriate services. Referral for caregivers includes warm handoffs and follow-­‐up. Outreach activities Most of WWFS’s outreach is through word of mouth. In addition, WWFS receives many referrals from VA caregiver coordinators, and reaches out to them on a weekly basis. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 187
Yellow Ribbon Fund (YRF)
Feature Description Website http://www.yellowribbonfund.org/ Managing office N/A Origination date 2008 History Founded to serve the injured coming back from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the YRF also recognized the importance of keeping the family together during the critical recuperation phase. The first programs provided free hotel rooms and apartments for visiting family members, free rental cars, and free cab rides to just about anywhere in the Washington, D.C., area. Today, the YRF helps bridge the gaps while service members are recovering in the D.C. area at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and Fort Belvoir Community Hospital. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: Family members and significant others of wounded service members. Specific injury/illness No Geographic reach Local: Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and Fort Belvoir Community Hospital. Mission The Yellow Ribbon Fund provides practical support to injured service members and their families while they’re at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, and after they return to their hometowns. Goals YRF strives to fill the gaps between the support the military can provide and the support the injured and their families need. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver specific] [Military specific] (Helping Hand): The Yellow Ribbon Fund provides free hotel rooms for visiting relatives desperate to be at the side of their injured loved ones. Providing free transportation during recovery at military hospitals in the Washington, D.C., area has been a core service of the Yellow Ribbon Fund from the very beginning, and still is. YRF provides vouchers for free taxi rides, free rental cars, buses for group outings, plane tickets when needed, and even lessons in how to use the Metro subway system. As injured service members recover and become outpatients, free, furnished apartments are provided for families who otherwise would have to endure the added stress of separation or crowding into a hotel room. The Yellow Ribbon Fund also provides pro bono legal services when injured service members need an advocate. Mode of Delivery: Housing assistance, Legal assistance (Structured Social Support): Retreats are established for caregivers to come together for social support. YRF also arranges lunches and other group activities for caregivers and families. When injured service members leave the hospital, they and their caregivers return to hometowns that are often ill-­‐equipped to provide needed support. The Yellow Ribbon Fund is recruiting a nationwide network of volunteer ambassadors, partnering with other service organizations, and following up by phone with every family it has ever assisted. In this way YRF is helping extend the safety net to communities across the country. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (individual, group), Phone, Internet (Structured Wellness Activities): YRF’s family caregiver program offers child care and family-­‐oriented activities to caregivers, plus stress-­‐relieving massages and spa visits, mutually supportive dinners out, and outdoor activities such as horseback rides. Services are free of charge. Mode of Delivery: Face to face (group) 188
Yellow Ribbon Fund (YRF)
Feature Description (Other): There is an annual Yellow Ribbon Fund/Army Navy Country Club Golf Classic for Injured Service Members teed off at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, VA. The unique format includes foursomes of three donors plus one injured service member; more than two d ozen injured troops play in the tournament each year. Outreach activities YRF is very well known as a resource for Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and Fort Belvoir Community Hospital. Word of mouth is key. Tax Determination Status Nonprofit 189
Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program
Feature Description Website http://www.yellowribbon.mil Managing office Family and Employer Programs and Policy Office within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs Origination date 2007 History The DoD Yellow Ribbon Reintegration program was mandated by Public Law 110-­‐181, Section 582, of the National Defense Authorization Act for FY08. The legislation calls on the Secretary of Defense to establish a national combat veteran reintegration program to provide National Guard and Reserve members and their families with sufficient information, services, referral, and proactive outreach opportunities throughout the entire deployment cycle. All of the branches of service have similar programs. The programs may be implemented differently but adhere to a set of established core principles. Related programs include the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Programs for the Army, Marine Corps, National Guard, Air Force, and Navy. Target population(s) General eligibility criteria: National Guard and Reserve members and their families. Specific injury/illness [No] Geographic reach [National with local branches, offices, or events] Mission Yellow Ribbon’s mission is to provide National Guard and Reserve members and their families with information, services, referrals, and proactive outreach opportunities throughout the deployment cycle. Goals The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program has four phases for all services: predeployment, deployment, demobilization, and postdeployment/reconstitution. However, the activities associated with each phase are determined by each service individually to satisfy the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program requirements. Services for caregivers Common Caregiving Services [Caregiver Incidental] [Military specific] (Structured Social Support): The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program is a DoD-­‐wide effort to promote the well-­‐being of National Guard and reserve members, and their families and communities, by uniting them and connecting them with resources before, during, and after deployment. Most branches of service have one required predeployment event, implemented in every state/territory, which service members and family members generally attend. During deployment, family members attend events. After deployment, service members and their families come together at three intervals, approximately 30, 60, and 90 days after deployment. These events focus on psychological health, reeducation about veteran benefits, employer support, finance, and the Post-­‐Deployment Health Reassessment. Information, Resources, and Guidance Informal Informational Source: Yellow Ribbon events provide service members and their family members access to information on health care, education/training opportunities, financial concerns, legal benefits, reintegration, and medical and behavioral health readiness. Referral Service for Veteran: The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program connects the geographically dispersed population of the Guard and reserves, and their families, with local services and resources. Referral Service for Caregiver: Same as for veterans. Tax Determination Status Government: DoD 190