Hosted by Family Resource Network, the two-day event focused on caregiver support and the importance of connection.
PRINCETON, N.J., Nov. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- With 63 million Americans caring for a loved one, the need for stronger support systems has never been greater. On November 1 and 2, Family Resource Network hosted the 2026 National Caregivers Conference at the Hyatt Regency Princeton, bringing together 250 caregivers, healthcare professionals, advocates and community leaders to address the challenges facing caregivers and the people they support.
Under the theme Connected in Caregiving, the conference offered opportunities to learn from experts, access practical resources and connect with others who understand the realities of caregiving.
"Caregivers are often the invisible backbone of our healthcare, education, and social support systems, and yet they are frequently overwhelmed, under-resourced, and unsure where to turn," said Liza Gundell, CEO of Family Resource Network.
The conference opened Sunday evening with a fireside chat featuring Lola Dada-Olley, author of Unapologetically Whole. On Monday, keynote speaker Amanda Clark-Wahl, founder of Cocktails & Caregivers, shared her personal experience caring for her late husband during his battle with cancer, offering a perspective that resonated with many in attendance.
Caregiving also took center stage in conversations about public policy. U.S. Senator Andy Kim shared his experience caring for his father and discussed his advocacy for caregiver support in Congress. New Jersey Human Services Commissioner Dr. Stephen Cha addressed the potential impact of H.R. 1 on Medicaid, food assistance and other programs that caregivers and families rely on.
Breakout sessions explored topics ranging from brain health and caregiver well-being to navigating services and advocating for change. Presenters drew on professional expertise and personal experience to offer practical guidance for caregivers. The conference concluded with an inspiring panel discussion exploring how new tools, technology and practical strategies can help caregivers feel more informed, supported and confident as they navigate the caregiving journey.
Just as important as the information shared was the opportunity to connect. Throughout the conference, caregivers had space to step away from their daily responsibilities, enjoy being in the moment and spend time with people who understood their experiences. That sense of being seen, heard and supported captured the meaning behind the conference theme, Connected in Caregiving.
Family Resource Network extends its appreciation to everyone who contributed to the conference, with special recognition to Kessler Foundation, the event's Visionary Care Sponsor, and Waymo, the event's Resilient Care Sponsor.
For more information about the National Caregivers Conference, visit https://www.familyresourcenetwork.org/national-caregivers-conference.
About the National Caregivers Conference
Held biennially in New Jersey, the National Caregivers Conference brings together family caregivers, professional caregivers, healthcare leaders and advocates to explore the challenges facing caregivers and advance solutions that strengthen caregiving. The conference provides opportunities for education and meaningful connection while elevating the voices and experiences of caregivers.
About Family Resource Network
The Family Resource Network is a statewide nonprofit agency that powers a unified network of 501(c)(3) organizations: Autism Family Services of New Jersey, Caregivers of New Jersey, and Epilepsy Services of New Jersey, bringing specialized support and expertise to individuals with disabilities, chronic conditions, and their families at every stage of life.
For more than five decades, FRN has helped people and families across New Jersey navigate complex systems, access resources, build independence, and engage more fully in life. Today, FRN supports 3,500 people each year through more than 30 programs and services that include support coordination, community-based services, employment and transition supports, education, advocacy, and family-centered programming, while reaching another 80,000 people through training and education.
Media Contact
Olivia Gordon, Family Resource Network, 1 800-372-6510, [email protected], familyresourcenetwork.org
SOURCE Family Resource Network
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