Fountain local named 2024 Dole Caregiver Fellow

(FOUNTAIN, Colo.) — The Elizabeth Dole Foundation announced its 2024 Class of Dole Caregiver Fellows, and a local from Fountain is amongst the chosen.

The foundation honors, supports, and empowers over 5.5 million military caregivers including spouses, parents, family members, and friends who care for America’s wounded, ill, or injured service members and veterans at home.

Vivian Mitchell from Fountain is one of 15 military and veteran caregivers who were selected from across the country to represent their peers in local and national advocacy initiatives.

“Every year, we are privileged to welcome a new class of Fellows who bring a wealth of insights, perspectives, and experiences,” said CEO of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, Steve Schwab. “The diversity of this year’s class enriches our mission as we continue to support the hidden heroes caring for those who serve. These Fellows will strengthen our national network of caregivers from all backgrounds and contribute to solving the systemic issues that continue to affect the lives of caregivers, veterans, and their families.”

Mitchell will receive training from the foundation to serve as a community builder and voice of support in Colorado. Fellows will also have opportunities to share with elected officials and other government agencies.

Mitchell serves as a caregiver for her husband who suffered amputations, burns, PTSD, and a Traumatic Brain Injury from his deployment in Iraq.

During the two-year term, the 2024 Class will support the foundation’s current priorities, including encouraging other Americans to self-identify as caregivers, expanding resources for caregiver families, reducing veteran and caregiver suicide, and announcing the findings of a landmark study on caregivers commissioned by the Foundation to come out later this year.

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