AMERICUS, GA – The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving (RCI) recently honored five family caregivers with Mattie J.T. Stepanek Caregiving Scholarships.
“With at least 40 million people in the United States caring for a loved one, it is critical we work to find ways to support family caregivers through education and policy,” said Dr. Jennifer Olsen, executive director of RCI.
“Mrs. Carter believes with proper training and support, family caregivers can provide quality, compassionate care at the same time that they maintain their own health, quality of life and sense of purpose.”
The scholarships provide financial assistance to family caregivers who are seeking training or education in specific skills, procedures and strategies that lead to more effective care while serving to protect their own health and well-being. Mattie, who passed away in 2004 from complications of Dysautonomic Mitochondrial Myopathy, was a friend to President and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter.
“Not all of those who provide care recognize themselves as family caregivers,” said Laura Bauer, executive director of the Mattie J.T. Stepanek Foundation. “This scholarship recognition is our way of honoring their willingness to give unselfishly of their time, caring, and support to those who need it.”
The following caregivers received $2,000 scholarships:
– Melinda Collins of Rio Rancho, New Mexico
– Dianne Ferebee of Toano, Virgina
– Jessica Rodriguez of Griswold, Connecticut
– Jacqui Scoggins of Larkspur, Colorado
– Jill Uyehara of Raeford, North Carolina