In a groundbreaking effort to transform support systems for family caregivers, the Arizona Caregiver Coalition and Care 4 the Caregivers, in partnership with 28 organizations and agencies, have launched the first-ever Arizona Family Caregivers Action Plan (2025–2028). This initiative, backed by a 15-member steering committee of organizations and caregivers, prioritizes access to services, advocacy, and education to build a stronger, more resilient caregiving network statewide.
“This Action Plan reflects Arizona’s commitment to creating a community that values and supports family caregivers,” said Kathrine Steele-Watson, Executive Director of the Arizona Caregiver Coalition. “By bringing together organizations and caregivers across the state, we are driving real, meaningful change.”
There are more than 800,000 family caregivers in Arizona providing critical care for loved ones while often receiving little support. The Arizona Family Caregivers Action Plan aims to create a statewide environment where caregivers are equipped with the resources, training, and advocacy they need from Day One. This comprehensive initiative establishes a roadmap for strengthening both caregivers and the organizations that serve them, setting a precedent for states nationwide.
The Action Plan is guided by a clear mission: to unite organizations statewide to strengthen and grow systems that support family caregivers from the beginning of their journey. It envisions a well-resourced, resilient community of caregivers and the organizations that empower them, anchored by three core priorities:
- Access to Services: Streamlining and expanding access to trauma-informed, culturally appropriate resources is critical. The plan includes creating a decision tree to help caregivers easily navigate federal, state, tribal, and nonprofit services tailored to their needs.
- Advocacy & Outreach: Family caregivers are too often overlooked by healthcare professionals and policy makers, and sometimes don’t even recognize their own importance. The plan will amplify the voices of caregivers, push for transformative policy changes, and raise public awareness about the challenges and contributions of family caregivers.
- Education: Multilingual, multicultural education and training programs will provide caregivers with essential skills and knowledge. These efforts will also extend to health care professionals, ensuring they recognize family caregivers’ roles and connect them with resources at the time of diagnosis.
Arizona’s Family Caregivers Action Plan is a bold step toward improving the quality of life for caregivers and their loved ones.
For more information about the Arizona Family Caregivers Action Plan, contact Kathrine Steele-Watson at kathrine@azcaregiver.org or visit Arizona Caregiver Coalition Action Plan.
