AARP Indiana to Host "The Caregiving Project"

On April 23 AARP Indiana is offering a virtual Caregiver Connections series event, “The Caregiver Project” – a writing workshop on mindful journaling for those who are or have been caregivers.

Register Here

This online writing workshop is open to caregivers with all types of experiences. Whether you are a personal or professional caregiver who is currently providing care or have provided care in the past, provide daily care or provide care less frequently, care for someone you live with or provide care from afar — you are welcome at this event. Connect, express yourself, and have affirmed, through bearing witness and having your writing listened to, that you are not alone.

 Do I have to be a writer to attend?

You do not need to consider yourself a writer to join in and benefit from this workshop. This kind of expressive writing is an excellent form of self-care. Research has shown expressive writing is associated with fewer visits to the doctor because of stress-related illness, improved immune system functioning, reduced blood pressure, improved lung and liver function, improved mood and affect, and a feeling of greater psychological well-being.

The facilitators in this workshop are certified in the Amherst Writers and Artist's (AWA) Method, which has a proven track record of holding safe, generative, and supportive communal space where both newcomers and more experienced writers can flourish.

What Can I Expect During the Workshop?

The workshop is offered via Zoom and is structured by the AWA Method. During the hour and a half, you will write to optional prompts provided by the facilitator.

Then you will break into small groups to read aloud what has just been written. If you choose to share, you will receive feedback from the small group on what is strong and memorable in your first draft of work.

Participants of past workshops have reported feelings of belonging and community, validation of experiences, the opportunity to process difficult emotions, and stress release. No negative impacts were disclosed.

Here are some participant quotes from evaluations after previous workshops:

"It was illuminating and so rewarding to have the chance to explore my own experience as a caregiver, share that and receive feedback on my writing."

"The best part of the workshop was listening to everyone's stories, the breathtaking honesty. I felt I was part of a community of care with all the breadth of experience that includes."

"The validation and empowerment from the others in the room was incredible. I wrote things that I didn't always feel super confident about, but they made me see the strengths in it."

"Having the chance to immerse myself in writing for 2 hours was a wonderful respite."

Important Event Information

When: Wednesday, April 23, 2025 @ 6:30 p.m. ET
Where: Online via Zoom (link will be provided upon registration)

Registration is required and space is limited, so be sure to secure your spot now!
Registration link: https://events.aarp.org/rAOMNo