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THE INVISIBLE GENERATION
They carry more than backpacks. They carry families.
5.4 million youth under 18 provide care to ill, disabled, or aging family members in the U.S.
1 in 4 military-connected teens has caregiving responsibilities.
15-20 hours per week average caregiving commitment.
They administer medications. Manage appointments.
Translate for family. Comfort siblings during deployments.
They are invisible.
Until now.
THE INVISIBLE GENERATION
THE MISSION
Carrying the Torch of Care recognizes teen caregivers as the powerful force of compassion they are.
Through The Circle of Compassion, we:
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Validate caregiving as service (Turn Care Into Credit)
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Provide scholarships & grants
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Build mentorship network
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Fund wellness retreats for families
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Create a national community
April 18, 2026 – Official Launch
Carrying the Torch of Care Breakfast | Army Navy Country Club, Arlington, VA
Presenting Partner: BlueCross BlueShield Association
Join The Circle of Compassion
1
Tier 1
Torchbearer of Care – $1,000+
2
Tier 2
Compassion Architect – $5,000+
3
Tier 3
Legacy Guardian – $10,000+
4
Tier 4
Circle of Friends – $100+
[In Memory / In Honor Button] [Monthly Sustainer Button]
WHERE YOUR MONEY GOES
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40% TCCSH Program Launch ($30K)
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27% April 18 Breakfast Event ($20K)
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20% Scholarships & Grants ($15K)
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13% Wellness & Mentorship ($10K)
Total Goal: $75,000 by April 18, 2026
The Circle of Compassion
Carrying The Torch of Care Forward
Carrying the Torch of Care
Supporting Military-Connected Children and Civilian Teen Caregivers
Across our nation and in communities around the world, a quiet generation of young people carries responsibilities far beyond their years.
Among them are military-connected children and civilian teen caregivers, young individuals who provide care, comfort, and support to ill, disabled, or aging family members while continuing to pursue their education and dreams.
The Carrying the Torch of Care initiative recognizes that these young caregivers represent a powerful but often unseen force of compassion and resilience. Military-connected children understand the meaning of service from an early age, while civilian teen caregivers experience many of the same challenges, balancing school, personal development, and caregiving responsibilities. Though their circumstances may differ, their commitment to family and community unites them.
Through the generosity of donors, partners, and community advocates, we are building a national movement that ensures these young caregivers are no longer invisible. Contributions help expand community caregiving programs, resources, mentorship, and recognition opportunities that allow these youth to succeed academically, emotionally, and socially while honoring the important role they play within their families.
This effort also honors the legacy of those who believed deeply in supporting caregiving youth and whose commitment continues to guide this work. Their vision reminds us that compassion, service, and responsibility are values that must be nurtured and carried forward by each generation.
By supporting Carrying the Torch of Care, you are helping elevate the voices of military-connected children and civilian teen caregivers alike, ensuring their strength, sacrifice, and dedication are recognized and supported.
Together, we carry the torch forward.