Research & Publications

From the beginning, the Elizabeth Dole Foundation has been rooted in evidence-based research which has informed the creation of our Strategic Plan.

14.3 million military caregivers across the country
2024

RAND Report

America's Military and Veteran Caregivers: Hidden Heroes Emerging from the Shadows
The 2024 RAND report, commissioned by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, reveals that 14.3 million Americans are serving as military and veteran caregivers, offering updated insights into the unique challenges they face and the successes they’ve achieved
2021

Hidden Helpers at the Frontlines of Caregiving

Supporting the Healthy Development of Children from Military and Veteran Caregiving Homes

As a result of the 2017 study, EDF commissioned a first-of-its-kind, groundbreaking research study in 2019 focused on military and veteran caregiver children and adolescents. The findings were unveiled at the White House as First Lady Dr. Jill Biden's Joining Forces Initiative joined EDF and Wounded Warrior Project in responding to the needs of the millions of American hidden helpers.

2017

Improving Support For America's Hidden Heroes

A Military Caregiver Research Blueprint

As a result of the 2017 study, EDF commissioned a first-of-its-kind, groundbreaking research study in 2019 focused on military and veteran caregiver children and adolescents. The findings were unveiled at the White House as First Lady Dr. Jill Biden's Joining Forces Initiative joined EDF and Wounded Warrior Project in responding to the needs of the millions of American hidden helpers.

2012

Hidden Heroes

America's Military Caregivers

This ground-breaking research first identified 5.5 million Americans serving as military and veteran caregivers. At that time, they were contributing an essential service to the nation, providing nearly $15 billion in unpaid care to veterans every year. These numbers have only grown.

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