How to Become a Family Caregiving Leader

Thank you for your interest in becoming a leader of the American Red Cross Family Caregiving Program in your community. Family Caregiving skills are of vital importance to those caring for their loved ones who suffer from chronic illness or disabilities.

Purpose The purpose of the Family Caregiving Program is to help participants gain an understanding of what is involved in caring for a loved one and to let them know how to provide that care.Family Caregiving consists of nine one-hour modules covering topics such as home safety, eating, personal care and others.

Six Easy Steps to Become a Family Caregiving Leader

Leaders must complete the following steps before conducting presentations:

	1. Make sure you have at least one of the leader qualifications listed below.
	2. Contact your local American Red Cross Health and Safety Director and let them know you would like to be a Family Caregiving leader. If your Red Cross chapter is not offering Family Caregiving presentations at this time, click here.
	3. Obtain a complete set of leader materials and products from your local Red Cross chapter.
	4. Complete a self-orientation and complete the self-test on page 127 of the Leader's Guide or attend a group orientation to the materials and products provided by your Red Cross chapter.
	5. Complete the Leader Orientation Verification Form and submit it to your Red Cross chapter.
	6. Review and complete the Leader Agreement and Code of Conduct and submit it to the chapter.

Everything you need to become a leader is in the Leader's Guide.

Leader Qualifications

Ideal leader candidates should have experience in delivery of patient care in a long-term or home setting. It is also beneficial for leaders to have experience conducting presentations and facilitating group discussions. Family Caregiving leaders will have one or more of the following qualifications:

	Individuals who have healthcare certification and/or licensure related to patient care, caregiving or long-term care.This may include:
	MD or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO);
	Licensed Social Worker (LCSW, MSW, BSW);
	Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN);
	Occupational or Physical Therapist; or
	Certified Nursing Assistant.
	Authorized American Red Cross instructor; or
	Individuals who have prior teaching, educational or facilitation skills and current or past experience in informal caregiving; or
	Others as determined by the local American Red Cross chapter's Health and Safety Services Administrator.