We champion youth who provide care for chronically ill, injured, frail elderly, and/or disabled family members, support their role as caregivers, safeguard and celebrate their success in school and life.
WHAT WE DO
In the United States, over 6 million children and teenagers under the age of 18 provide significant assistance or care to family members of all ages who are unable to live independently due to chronic illness, disability, mental health conditions, or aging-related frailty. These young people are called Caregiving Youth in the U.S. and “Young Carers” in the UK. Founded in 1998 in Boca Raton, FL, the American Association of Caregiving Youth (AACY) has been at the forefront of addressing the needs and challenges faced by this large, growing, and hidden population for more than two decades. In partnership with schools, AACY provides direct services to middle and high school students and their families through its Palm Beach County flagship program, the Caregiving Youth Project, and serves as a leading national authority on Caregiving Youth through its Caregiving Youth Institute, national partnerships, and affiliates.
PROJECTS AND INITIATIVES
BUILDING THE CASE
23.6% Middle And 16.4% High School Students In Florida Public Schools Care Give
DONATE AND
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Help us financially so the hidden population of Caregiving Youth becomes visible as a vital resource within our society. Your support will help us expand our programs, advocacy and events.
UPCOMING EVENTS
VIDEO SPOTLIGHT
Child caregivers shine light on heavy task of tending to sick parents and other family members. | An estimated 6 million children under age 18 care for loved one who is sick or disabled. Students Jacob Gutierrez and Rocco Fernandez sit down with NBC’s Maria Shriver on TODAY to share their experience juggling school while caregiving for their sick parents. Gutierrez says “When I’m in school, I call at least one or two times per day making sure that everyone’s all right. There can be a lot of stress put on me.”