We like to think for our work as a “circle of advocacy” – we move from case to cause. Through our work with elders and their families we learn of changes needed within the complicated network of elder programs and services.  Systemic advocacy is accomplished through advocacy with administrative and legislative staff and education for the public, elders, caregivers, and professionals.  Any improvement to the system can result in helping hundreds if not thousands of individuals impacted by a particular problem, closing the circle.

Education is a powerful tool. Educating people who are uninformed or misinformed can have a profound effect upon people’s lives.  Competence with Compassion™, CARIE’s award-winning training programs for long-term care staff is just one example of how CARIE is trying to improve the system through education.  Mounting and participating in advocacy efforts directed at government and elected officials are another way to effect change.

The purpose of CARIE’s Public Policy section of our website is to help keep interested consumers and advocates informed of various policy developments at the local, state, and national levels.  Advocacy alerts will be posted and sent to individuals wishing to take action on issues impacting older adults.  Please click on Email Sign-Up to receive public policy information.  You are welcome to join our monthly meetings of the Dorothy S. Washburn Legislative Committee held in CARIE’s offices on the first Thursday of each month from 10:00 to 11:30 (currently paused during COVID).  Please visit COVID-19 Advocacy for more information about our work during the pandemic. If you are interested in advocating with us, please contact us.