Road Scholar Celebrates Giving Tuesday & Caregiver Grants
Amid the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, Giving Tuesday emerges as a beacon of light, reminding us of the power we possess to make a positive impact.
Founded in 2012 as a response to Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday is celebrated in over 100 countries. Since its launch, it has generated more than $13 billion in donations for charitable causes. On this day — the Tuesday after Thanksgiving — we encourage individuals to support non-profit organizations and causes that are important to them. At Road Scholar, we are asking our vital community of donors to support our Caregiver Grant program as an impactful way to make a difference in the lives of primary caregivers.
The Unsung Heroes: Caregivers
Did you know that more than 48 million Americans are currently serving as unpaid family caregivers? These dedicated individuals give their time, energy and hearts to providing care and support to a loved one facing health challenges. And as our population ages, this number continues to grow.
From assisting with daily living to helping with nursing tasks, coordinating services and supports, transportation, shopping and serving as an advocate for their loved one, most family caregivers provided at least 20 hours of care each week, with some providing care 24/7. Caregiving is a labor of love, but it comes with its own set of challenges. The physical, emotional and financial toll on caregivers can be immense.
Road Scholar’s Caregiver Grants
Road Scholar established Caregiver Grants in 2015 in response to the number of participants serving as a primary caregiver to a loved one. This year, on Giving Tuesday, our fundraising goal of $20,000 will help 10 additional caregivers find respite and camaraderie on a Road Scholar learning adventure in the United States. Individuals caring for an ill or disabled family member (spouse, parent, adult child, partner or sibling) are eligible to apply for this grant. In this season of giving, there may be no greater gift to a caregiver than an opportunity for respite and rejuvenation.
How You Can Make a Difference
Donate: Your support of Road Scholar’s Caregiver Grants can provide much-needed respite to someone on the front lines of caregiving on one of our learning adventures.
Spread Awareness:
- Use the power of your voice and social media to raise awareness about caregivers’ challenges.
- Advocate for policies that support and recognize the crucial role of caregivers in our communities.
- Share the word of Road Scholar’s Caregiver Grants with caregivers you know who may need a time of rest and rejuvenation.
Volunteer: Giving Tuesday isn’t just focused on monetary donations — gifts of time and skill can also help charities and non-profit organizations. Extend a hand to a local caregiver by offering to pick up groceries, run errands or handle chores to help lighten their load.
Educate Yourself: Take the time to educate yourself and others about the realities of caregiving. Understanding the challenges faced by caregivers fosters empathy and a deeper appreciation for their contributions.
Support Road Scholar Caregiver Grants
Your support on Giving Tuesday can make a life-changing difference to a caregiver. Read how the generosity of our donors helps Caregiver Grant recipients in this collection of stories.
If you or someone you know would benefit from the rejuvenation that a Road Scholar Caregiver Grant offers, we invite you to learn more about our Caregiver Grants.