Summit celebrates Hidden Heroes Cities and Counties continued support of military and veteran caregivers
Washington, D.C. (February 3, 2022) — The Elizabeth Dole Foundation convened for its Second Annual Hidden Heroes Cities and Counties Summit. Representatives from more than 170 Hidden Heroes cities, counties, and states gathered to celebrate, recognize, and further their support of military and veteran caregivers across the country.
Established by Elizabeth Dole in 2016, the Hidden Heroes Program works to provide crucial information and resources to the veteran and military caregiver community. Their services impact thousands across the nation.
“We’re thrilled to come together with our Hidden Heroes leaders from around the country to applaud their efforts. It’s because of their hard work and dedication that we are able to raise awareness for and support the 5.5 million spouses, mothers, fathers, and loved ones caring for our nation’s brave veterans at home,” said Steve Schwab, CEO of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. “This partnership with states, cities, and counties across the United States is crucial to helping achieve Senator Elizabeth Dole’s dream of strengthening and empowering our nation’s military caregivers.”
The Second Annual Cities and Counties Summit featured new tools and opportunities from Comcast NBCUniversal and AARP, designed to help government officials access the resources and information needed to better the lives of military caregivers. The Summit also highlighted the success of the “I Am A Caregiver” self-identification campaign, which piloted in Michigan last year and will be expanding to additional states throughout 2022.
“For all of us here at Comcast NBCUniversal, having the opportunity to support military caregivers and alleviate some of their stress is a top priority. From managing recoveries and complicated medical needs to assisting with daily tasks and socialization, these selfless family members and friends do so much for our country’s heroes,” said Carol Eggert, Senior Vice President of Military and Veteran Affairs at Comcast NBCUniversal.
By forging relationships with various state and local governments, the Elizabeth Dole Foundation has been able to advocate for increased resources and improved information for military and veteran caregivers nationwide. While initially confined to state and city partnerships, Hidden Heroes expanded to include counties in 2019.
“Across the nation, caregivers and veterans alike are facing unprecedented challenges, and it is up to their communities to provide support. By partnering with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, communities nationwide are answering the call and working to streamline services and resources for the military and veteran community and their families,” said First Vice President Denise Winfrey from the National Association of Counties. “We are proud of each elected leader that is a part of this critical program, and we look forward to continuing efforts to give back to the people and their families who selflessly fought for our freedom.”
