Portraits of Care: Honoring Caregivers Across WA

Family caregivers provide compassion, dedication, and support every day, often behind the scenes. Portraits of Care is a special event designed to honor caregivers, celebrate their stories, and connect them with helpful resources and a supportive community.

Hosted by AARP Washington, this unique experience invites caregivers and their loved ones to participate in a series of engaging activities that recognize the important role caregivers play in our communities.

This is a free event with pre-registration. Space is limited. Sign up today!

Who Should Attend?

Family caregivers caring for an aging parent, spouse, partner, grandparent, sibling, or other loved one

Individuals caring for someone with dementia, Alzheimer's disease, a chronic illness, disability, or other health condition

Grandparents and relatives raising children or providing kinship care

Former caregivers who wish to reflect on and share their experiences

Anyone interested in learning more about caregiving resources, support, and community connections

Whether you are new to caregiving or have been providing care for years, Portraits of Care offers an opportunity to be seen, heard, appreciated, and celebrated. Join us as we honor the stories, strength, resilience, and love that define caregiving

What to Expect Professional Portrait Experience Participants will have the opportunity to sit for a professional portrait, individually or with the person they care for. Each participant will receive a printed keepsake photo, creating a lasting reminder of their caregiving journey.

Poetry Writing Through a simple and reflective writing activity, participants can create a six-word poem or short message that captures their caregiving experience. No writing experience is needed. This activity is designed to be meaningful, accessible, and inspiring.

Story Sharing Booth Caregivers are invited to share a brief reflection about their experiences through a recorded audio storytelling station. Sharing is completely optional, and participants may choose the level of participation that feels comfortable for them.

Caregiver Resources & Advocacy Corner Learn about programs, tools, and resources available to support caregivers. Participants can explore information from AARP and discover opportunities to stay informed about issues affecting caregivers and their families.

Lunch and Community Connection A complimentary lunch will be provided, offering time to relax, connect with fellow caregivers, and enjoy meaningful conversation in a welcoming environment. This shared meal creates an opportunity to build community, exchange experiences, and celebrate the contributions of caregivers together.

A Special Celebration Throughout the event, portraits, poems, and stories will be showcased in a celebratory slideshow and community display. Participants will be among the first to see the growing collection of caregiver stories created during the event.

Beyond the Event Portraits and stories collected during the program may be featured, with participant permission, in a digital gallery and future community exhibitions that help elevate caregiver voices and raise awareness of the caregiving experience.