CARE-NET: CAREGIVER ADVOCACY

CARE-NETs Use Effective Communication Tools

• developing strategies for professional and family caregiver activities,

• offering caregiver education,

• and sharing information and resources among the agencies in their membership.

Many CARE-NETs have developed effective ways of accomplishing this last task. While the agencies that make up the CARE-NETs are diverse, many of their constituents have similar needs. The CARE-NETS use a variety of communication channels to keep their members informed about caregiving-related events, activities, resources, services and announcements.

Annie Tarbutton at Southern Crescent CARE-NET uses the CARE-NET Resource Connection. The CARE-NET Resource Connection is an e-mail blast which Annie sends to the membership of the CARE-NET. Organizations in the Southern Crescent region send Annie information about events or services that are caregiving-related, and may be of interest to the CARE-NET members and the constituents they serve. Annie distributes this information to her extensive CARE-NET e-mail list.

Sharon Dickol at the Coastal Georgia CARE-NET and Katie Flynn with the Southeast Georgia CARE-NET also use similar e-mail distribution systems to keep caregivers and professionals in their region informed.

The e-mail chain begins as CARE-NET members forward important information to others on their distribution lists. This economical and effective marketing process allows caregivers to be aware of all of the potential resources and services available to them, and allows professionals to learn about new strategies and educational opportunities.

Contact the CARE-NET in your region to be added to their e-mail distribution list.