Celebrating 40 Years of Support: California Caregiver Resource Centers

November is National Family Caregiver Month, a time to recognize the tireless dedication of the millions of family members who care for loved ones with chronic illnesses, disabilities, and cognitive disorders. For 40 years, the California Caregiver Resource Centers (CRC) have been a critical lifeline to these unsung heroes. 

Founded in 1984, the CRCs have provided free essential services to family caregivers across California, helping them navigate the complex challenges of caregiving with compassion, resources, and support.

A message from the California Department of Aging:

A Vision Born from a Community’s Need

The journey of CRC began in the mid-1970s when a small group of families in San Francisco realized they had nowhere to turn for support. At the time, there were no services dedicated to caregivers of adults with brain-impairing conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, strokes, Parkinson’s disease, and traumatic brain injuries. These families were facing these notoriously difficult challenges on their own—including all of the emotional, physical, and financial strain—without the guidance or resources they so desperately needed.

In response, the families formed a task force to raise awareness and demand support. With the help of then-Assemblyman Art Agnos, their efforts led to the introduction of the Family Survival Project in 1979, which offered services to caregivers in the San Francisco Bay Area. This initiative proved so successful that it paved the way for a statewide movement.
In 1984, the California Legislature passed the Comprehensive Act for Family Caregivers of Brain-Impaired Adults, which established the California Caregiver Resource Centers (CRC) as a statewide network under the California Department of Mental Health. Today, there are 11 CRCs across California, serving caregivers from all walks of life and offering a broad range of services to help them manage the challenges of caring for a loved one with chronic health conditions.

The CRC Service Model: Tailored Support for Every Caregiver

CRC is more than just a network of Centers—it’s a comprehensive support system for caregivers. Each of the 11 CRCs throughout California provides services tailored to the unique needs of the families and communities they serve. 

While each center offers a variety of programs, some of the core services include:

• Specialized Information & Resources: Caregivers can access expert advice on caregiving and local community resources through CareNav™, an online tool designed to help families find the information they need.

• Caregiver Assessment & Planning: Caregivers receive a comprehensive, uniform assessment that helps identify their needs and concerns, ranging from medical care to emotional support and financial planning. A personalized care plan is then created to ensure caregivers have a clear path forward.

• Family Consultation & Care Navigation: Families can schedule one-on-one consultations, either in person or over the phone, with trained staff who offer guidance on care options, emotional support, and connecting to additional community services.

• Respite Care: Caring for a loved one can be overwhelming, and respite care gives caregivers a much-needed break. CRC offers financial assistance for substitute care services, allowing caregivers to take time for themselves.

• Short-Term Counseling: Licensed counselors provide emotional support and strategies to help caregivers manage the stress and emotional toll of caregiving.

• Support Groups: Monthly meetings give caregivers a space to share their experiences and advice in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.

• Caregiver Training & Education: Classes and workshops are offered to help caregivers understand conditions like dementia, improve their caregiving skills, and take care of their own health and well-being.

• Legal & Financial Guidance: Family caregivers can receive consultations with elder law attorneys to help with important matters like powers of attorney, estate planning, and conservatorships.

The services provided by CRC are designed to address every aspect of caregiving, from the practical to the emotional. Whether a caregiver is looking for advice on managing a loved one’s medical care or simply needs someone to talk to, CRC centers are there to provide ongoing support.

A message from the CRC Executive Directors on Innovative Caregiver Support in California:

40 Years of Impact: The Ongoing Legacy of the CRC Network

The California Caregiver Resource Centers have come a long way since their founding, expanding to reach families throughout the state. Today, CRC serves thousands of caregivers, helping them handle the many complexities that come with caring for someone with a chronic illness or cognitive impairment.

But the impact of CRC goes beyond just the services we provide—it’s about creating a community for caregivers. Caregivers often experience isolation, stress, and burnout, but CRC centers offer a network of support, ensuring that caregivers never feel like they’re on this journey alone.

At its heart, CRC believes that caregivers deserve choice, respect, and dignity. That’s why every caregiver who reaches out to a CRC receives a personalized care plan that reflects their needs, preferences, and circumstances. And the services don’t end after one consultation—caregivers can continue to access CRC resources for as long as they need support.

Looking to the Future: Strengthening Care for All

As the population of older adults continues to grow, the need for caregiver support will only increase. The California Caregiver Resource Centers are committed to adapting and innovating to meet these growing needs. Whether through new technologies, more specialized programs, or advocacy for caregiver rights, CRC will continue to lead the way in supporting families who are caring for loved ones with serious health conditions.

This National Family Caregiver Month, we celebrate the 40-year legacy of the California Caregiver Resource Centers and honor the thousands of family caregivers who dedicate their time and energy to caring for others. With the continued support of CRC, caregivers across California can rest assured that they are not alone—and that help is always just a phone call or a visit away.
For more information on the services offered by California Caregiver Resource Centers, or to find a center near you, visit the CRC website.

Closing Thoughts: A Heartfelt Thanks to All Caregivers

As we wrap up National Family Caregiver Month, let’s remember the profound impact that caregivers have on the lives of those they care for. These everyday heroes make sacrifices and show boundless love and dedication. The California Caregiver Resource Centers are here to ensure that caregivers get the support, resources, and recognition they deserve. Here’s to 40 years of service—and to many more years of helping caregivers thrive.

Thank you for all that you do. And never forget – you are not alone.