On November 16 CoAction and the Multicultural Wellness Network celebrated National Caregivers Month by hosting ''Harvesting Connections: Celebrating Caregivers and Older Adults" at the Merrillville branch of the Lake County Public Library. Attendees enjoyed a variety of resources, raffles, games, and moments of joy. More importantly, it provided a space to recognize the critical, yet often underappreciated, role of caregivers.
“This lady brought me back to life,” said Vietnam veteran Michael Chiarodo, reflecting on the devotion of his caregiver, Anna Smith. “Even though it can be a lot of work, she has devoted so much time to help get me straight. I don’t think I would be here today without her; I owe her my life.”
Smith, who has cared for Chiarodo for two years, was equally moved by the outpouring of support she found at the *Harvesting Connections: Celebrating Caregivers and Older Adults* event. “This event means a lot. It’s great,” she said. “We’re recognized and reminded that we are important, too.”
“Caregivers are the backbone of our community, providing support to loved ones in ways that are often unseen,” said Claudia Pena, Communications Manager at CoAction, the Area Agency on Aging. “Events like *Harvesting Connections* remind them that they are not alone and that there are resources and people here to help lighten their load.”
With nearly 30 vendors, the event highlighted a range of resources, including healthcare services, assisted living options, and insurance information. For attendees like Anna Smith, it was a lifeline. For organizers like Pena, it was a testament to the strength of community collaboration.
“We are thrilled to work alongside incredible organizations like the Multicultural Wellness Network to host events like this,” said Pena. “Our goal is to empower caregivers and older adults by connecting them to the resources and support systems they need to thrive.”
Martin Zuniga, Community Liaison at NorthShore Health Centers and a former caregiver himself, underscored the importance of these connections. “On a personal level, I was a caregiver for my mom and dad, so I’ve been in those shoes,” Zuniga said. “There are so many resources out there – it’s all about awareness. The more we can provide information and insight to caregivers, the better they can care for their loved ones.”
The event left attendees like Smith feeling uplifted and better prepared for the challenges of caregiving. “Taking care of a Vietnam veteran has unique challenges,” she said. “Thanks to this event, I feel equipped with the tools and resources I need to fully tackle these challenges head-on with confidence.”
With renewed connections and a strengthened sense of community, caregivers like Smith can continue providing the compassionate care their loved ones depend on. As Chiarodo shared, “She brought me back to life.”
For more information about resources for caregivers and older adults, visit CoAction and the Multicultural Wellness Network’s websites.
