Who We Are: The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers
The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers (RCI) was established in 1987, rooted in former First Lady Rosalynn Carter’s belief that there are only four types of people in the world: those who have been caregivers, who are caregivers, who will be caregivers, and who will need caregivers. RCI was established at Georgia Southwestern State University in her honor.
RCI began offering coaching and support to caregivers in Georgia and has since grown to embrace opportunities to reach more caregivers, in more ways, in more places.
In 2020, RCI expanded nationally and became an independent organization to fulfill its promise to champion the family caregiver by building cross-sector partnerships, promoting evidence-based programs, and advocating for public policy. To meet this vision, RCI changed its name to the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers, further prioritizing that supporting caregivers are at the core of RCI’s mission.
With more than 53 million people serving as unpaid family caregivers in the United States, the institute’s scope and work continues to evolve under the leadership of Executive Director Dr. Jennifer Olsen, a prominent epidemiologist, in partnership with Mrs. Carter.