UW-Extension receives caregiver education award

The University of Wisconsin-Extension was recognized Nov. 9 by the National Alliance for Caregiving in Washington, D.C., for strengthening the delivery of family caregiver education through partnership.

The network of 75 organizations in Wisconsin works toward a common goal of supporting caregivers.

The National Alliance for Caregiving is a Washington, D.C.-based coalition of national organizations, with support from MetLife Foundation. The event recognized outstanding community agencies that support family caregivers providing assistance to older adults.

Nearly 170 nonprofit agencies competed for six national 2006 Family Caregiving Awards, which included categories for caregiver support, caregiver education and technology. These agencies help family caregivers by providing support, education and other resources in the ongoing effort to assist vulnerable older adults to remain either in their own homes, or with family, as research shows that a vast majority of Americans prefer to remain in their own homes as they age.

Nonprofit honorees were awarded $25,000 to continue and enhance their support for caregivers.