WI Lifespan Respite Enhancement Initiative - The Wisconsin Department of Health Services, in partnership with the Respite Care Association of Wisconsin (RCAW) and key stakeholders, proposes to expand and strengthen the state's respite care infrastructure by building enhancements developed under the previous Lifespan Respite Care Program grant (HHS-2022-ACL-AOA-LRLI-0049). The overarching goal is to sustain a coordinated, accessible, and high-quality respite system that supports family caregivers across the lifespan, reduces caregiver burden, and improves health and well-being for both family caregivers and care recipients. Project objectives include: 1. Enhance caregiver well-being and access to respite services by expanding person-centered, family-directed grant programs, increasing awareness through statewide outreach, and implementing data-driven strategies to address gaps in underserved regions; and 2. Strengthen the respite care workforce by expanding the provider registry, increasing National Respite Care Provider Training for Wisconsin training completions by 25% annually, and ensuring consistent access to qualified, trained professionals across the state. Project outcomes include 1. Improved Caregiver and Care Recipient Well-being; 2. Greater Access to Respite Services; 3. Expanded and Strengthened Respite Workforce; 4. Data-Driven System Improvement; and 5. Sustainable and Coordinated System Infrastructure The expected products include an Annual Program Impact/Outcome Report, Program Evaluation Briefs, Data Dashboards, Regional Gap Analysis Report, Awareness Campaign Materials, Community Fact Sheets, Outreach and Advocacy Tools, Training and Provider Support Materials, Strategic Planning Framework, and Impact Testimonial Compilation.
