Virtual Second Wednesday with Benjamin Rose
2025-09-10 09:00 - 10:00 (America/New_York) | https://www.benrose.org/event/virtual-second-wednesday-with-benjamin-rose-11/
Join us virtually the second Wednesday of every month from 9 – 10 a.m. to learn more about Benjamin Rose and from President & CEO Orion Bell. Each month we will provide an overview of the programs and services we offer. Second Wednesdays are a great opportunity to network, learn about Benjamin Rose, and discover how you can get involved in our work.

Second Wednesdays are free to attend, and all are welcome! Registration is required. For more information, please call (216) 373-1688.

BRI Care Consultation Learning Collaborative- Pets and Caregiving: The Benefits and Challenges
2025-09-10 15:30 | https://www.benrose.org/event/pets-and-caregivin/
REGISTER

Join us for a discussion on the unique challenges and opportunities pets can add to caregiving situations. Having conversations about pets with clients can uncover important resources and needs. A guided presentation and discussion will address:

• Issues related to pet care and planning

• Pets’ impact on an owner living with dementia

• How pets shape the caregiving experience

• The ways pets can be both a barrier and bridge to health care and services

• Practical strategies and resources for you to support caregivers and pet owners living with dementia will be provided.

Homebuyer Education
2025-09-15 18:00 - 20:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/homebuyer-education-sept2025/
REGISTER

Are you interested in buying a home but not sure where to start?

Our FREE HUD-approved homebuyer education class can teach you the important basics of the home buying process. We will provide you with the knowledge you’ll need to secure an affordable mortgage and buy the right house for you.

This course is a four-part series. This registration is for the following days, from 6-8 PM:

September 15 (Mon)

September 16 (Tues)

September 17 (Weds)

September 18 (Thurs)

Session One: Budget & Credit

September 15

Examine your money profile

Learn how to better manage your money through spending plans, tracking income & expenses, goal setting and building your savings

Explore the importance of credit and learn tips to establish and improve your credit

Review how to avoid and handle identity theft

Session Two: Obtaining a Mortgage Loan & Your Consumer Rights

September 16

Learn how to qualify and get pre-approved for a mortgage loan

Review affordability and how to determine how much money to spend on buying a home

Learn your rights as a loan consumer

Session Three: Shopping for a Home & the Importance of a Home Inspection

September 17

Learn how to shop for a home, from finding the right neighborhood to considering which type of home is right for you

Explore tips on how to work with an agent

Learn about the purchase, sale, escrow, and closing processes

Review the professional home inspection process and why it’s so important

Session Four: Home Insurance & Maintaining Your Home

September 18

Learn how to protect your home through insurance, liability protection and home safety measures

Explore different ways to maintain your home

Embrace your neighborhood and learn ways to explore your community, be a good neighbor and invest in your area’s success

To register, click the above button and fill out our registration form.

Ask the Expert: Understanding Dementia
2025-09-18 12:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/understanding-dementia/
REGISTER

Join us for “Understanding Dementia,” a special Lunch and Learn event where we’ll address the challenges faced by family members who are caring for someone living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Participants will learn the stages and challenges associated with this progressive disease, as well as develop compassionate strategies to improve communication, maintain physical and emotional care, and manage unexpected behaviors. Whether you’re a family caregiver or a professional, this event offers a supportive space to learn, share and gain confidence in providing care.

Financial Education Workshops
2025-09-22 14:00 - 15:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/financial-education-sept2025/
REGISTER

Benjamin Rose, a HUD-approved housing and financial counseling agency, provides a variety of free workshops and counseling services.

Our financial workshops are a five-part series. This registration is for the following days, from 2:00-3:00 PM:

September 22 (Mon)

September 23 (Tues)

September 24 (Wed)

September 25 (Thurs)

September 26 (Fri)

Recognizing & Avoiding Elder Financial Abuse, Scams & Fraud – Module 1

September 22

While this is a great course for all, it’s even better for our older adults or anyone caring for an older adult. You will learn what elder financial exploitation is and why older adults are at risk, who the abusers are, and where to report the abuse. This workshop also covers how to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft, the different scams that are out and how to spot them. What to do and who to call if you believe you have been a victim of a scam and how to guard yourself against identity & medical theft. Don’t become a victim! Register today!

Preparing for the Future – Module 2

September 23

In this course you will learn what an estate is, how to prepare an estate plan, advance healthcare directives and prepare yourself for unexpected life events. It is never too early to start estate planning. Register today to start preparing for your future!

Budgeting, Goal Setting & Saving – Module 3

September 24

This course provides an informative session about where you are, where you want to go, and how to get there. Topics include tools to manage your money, identify personal goals, and how to budget and save. Go for the GOAL and Register today!

Taking Control of Credit & Debt – Module 4

September 25

Whether you want to set a financial goal, get out of debt, or manage your payments, this course will provide tools and resources in navigating it all. Register today and make this the year YOU take control!

Benefitting from Benefits – Module 5

September 26

Don’t lose out on the benefit of seeing what benefits you may qualify for. Register today!

Virtual Second Wednesday with Benjamin Rose
2025-10-08 09:00 - 10:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/virtual-second-wednesday-with-benjamin-rose-12/

The Emotional Side of Caregiving
2025-10-16 12:00 - 13:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/the-emotional-side-of-caregiving/
REGISTER

Join us for “The Emotional Side of Caregiving,” a special Lunch and Learn event where we’ll explore the often-overlooked feelings of stress, guilt, grief, and compassion fatigue that many caregivers experience. Participants will discover practical strategies for managing stress and maintaining emotional balance. We will provide tools for resilience and self-care, as well as time for open discussion and shared experiences. Whether you’re a family caregiver or a professional, this event offers a supportive space to reflect, connect, and recharge.

2025 Medicare Changes: What Caregivers and Advocates Need to Know
2025-10-16 14:00 - 15:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/2025-medicare-changes/
REGISTER

Join us for an important conversation with Bob Blancato, Executive Director of the Elder Justice Coalition, as he unpacks the latest changes to Medicare in 2025. This webinar will highlight key updates impacting older adults, caregivers, and service providers, and offer insights into how these changes connect to broader advocacy efforts. Participants will gain a clearer understanding of what to expect and how to effectively support the needs of older adults in their communities.

Speaker

Robert “Bob” Blancato President, Matz, Blancato and Associates, National Coordinator of the Elder Justice Coalition
Robert Blancato Robert “Bob” Blancato is the National Coordinator of the bipartisan 3000-member Elder Justice Coalition. He is also President of Matz, Blancato and Associates, the Executive Director of the National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs, and the National Coordinator of the Defeat Malnutrition Today coalition. Bob has long been recognized as a national advocate with policy expertise on behalf of older adults. He has testified numerous times before House and Senate Committees, most recently in 2022 before the House Appropriations Labor-HHS-Education Subcommittee.

Bob’s prior work history includes 17 years as a staffer in Congress and an appointment by President Clinton to be the Executive Director of the 1995 White House Conference on Aging, one of four he has participated in. He is a member of the Senior Executive Service.

As a volunteer, he currently serves as second vice chair of the AARP board and is also on the AARP Foundation, and the board of the National Hispanic Council on Aging. From 2019 to 2023, Bob served on the National Advisory Committee on Rural Health and Human Services, appointed by HHS Secretary Azar.
Read More

Bingo Night Fundraiser
2025-10-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Benjamin Rose Conference Center, 11890 Fairhill Road, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
Tickets are sold out! A limited number may be available by contacting Jen Cosma at jcosma@benrose.org

Join us on Friday, October 17 from 6 – 8 p.m. for food, drinks and bingo! Presented by the Benjamin Rose Young Professional Council.

Tickets:

Regular Ticket: $30 in advance ($35 day of)

Regular Ticket includes Cilantro Taqueria taco bar + 2 drink tickets. Bingo boards sold separately.

Child Ticket: $20 in advance ($25 day of)

Child Ticket includes Cilantro Taqueria taco bar + 1 non-alcoholic drink ticket. Bingo boards sold separately. For ages 12 and under only.

VIP Ticket: $50

Enjoy the full event experience! VIP Ticket includes Cilantro Taqueria taco bar + open bar + 1 regular bingo board + digital recognition at the event.

Please note that tickets are nonrefundable.

Bingo Boards:

Grab a pack of 5 at the event for just $5! More boards = more chances to WIN!

Every round is a chance to win prizes AND every ticket supports the mission of Benjamin Rose.

Become a sponsor of the Bingo Night Fundraiser!

Gain visibility for your business while supporting the programs and services of Benjamin Rose. For more information on bingo sponsorship opportunities, contact Jen Cosma at (216) 373-1688 or sponsorships@benrose.org.

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, download the prospectus.

Online sponsor payments can be made here.

Tickets

Thank you to our sponsors!

Presenting

Platinum

Gold

Hiti DiFrancesco and Siebold Inc

Streamline Printing

Bronze

Siyue Xu & Daniel Lausin

Kellie Lockemer

Audra Bennett

Patricia Frutig

Suzanne Omori

Visiting Angels

Financial Education Workshops
2025-10-20 14:00 - 15:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/financial-education-oct2025/
REGISTER

Benjamin Rose, a HUD-approved housing and financial counseling agency, provides a variety of free workshops and counseling services.

Our financial workshops are a five-part series. This registration is for the following days, from 2:00-3:00 PM:

October 20 (Mon)

October 21 (Tues)

October 22 (Wed)

October 23 (Thurs)

October 24 (Fri)

Recognizing & Avoiding Elder Financial Abuse, Scams & Fraud – Module 1

October 20

While this is a great course for all, it’s even better for our older adults or anyone caring for an older adult. You will learn what elder financial exploitation is and why older adults are at risk, who the abusers are, and where to report the abuse. This workshop also covers how to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft, the different scams that are out and how to spot them. What to do and who to call if you believe you have been a victim of a scam and how to guard yourself against identity & medical theft. Don’t become a victim! Register today!

Preparing for the Future – Module 2

October 21

In this course you will learn what an estate is, how to prepare an estate plan, advance healthcare directives and prepare yourself for unexpected life events. It is never too early to start estate planning. Register today to start preparing for your future!

Budgeting, Goal Setting & Saving – Module 3

October 22

This course provides an informative session about where you are, where you want to go, and how to get there. Topics include tools to manage your money, identify personal goals, and how to budget and save. Go for the GOAL and Register today!

Taking Control of Credit & Debt – Module 4

October 23

Whether you want to set a financial goal, get out of debt, or manage your payments, this course will provide tools and resources in navigating it all. Register today and make this the year YOU take control!

Benefitting from Benefits – Module 5

October 24

Don’t lose out on the benefit of seeing what benefits you may qualify for. Register today!

Homebuyer Education
2025-10-20 18:00 - 20:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/homebuyer-education-oct2025/
REGISTER

Are you interested in buying a home but not sure where to start?

Our FREE HUD-approved homebuyer education class can teach you the important basics of the home buying process. We will provide you with the knowledge you’ll need to secure an affordable mortgage and buy the right house for you.

This course is a four-part series. This registration is for the following days, from 6-8 PM:

October 20 (Mon)

October 21 (Tues)

October 22 (Weds)

October 23 (Thurs)

Session One: Budget & Credit

October 20

Examine your money profile

Learn how to better manage your money through spending plans, tracking income & expenses, goal setting and building your savings

Explore the importance of credit and learn tips to establish and improve your credit

Review how to avoid and handle identity theft

Session Two: Obtaining a Mortgage Loan & Your Consumer Rights

October 21

Learn how to qualify and get pre-approved for a mortgage loan

Review affordability and how to determine how much money to spend on buying a home

Learn your rights as a loan consumer

Session Three: Shopping for a Home & the Importance of a Home Inspection

October 22

Learn how to shop for a home, from finding the right neighborhood to considering which type of home is right for you

Explore tips on how to work with an agent

Learn about the purchase, sale, escrow, and closing processes

Review the professional home inspection process and why it’s so important

Session Four: Home Insurance & Maintaining Your Home

October 24

Learn how to protect your home through insurance, liability protection and home safety measures

Explore different ways to maintain your home

Embrace your neighborhood and learn ways to explore your community, be a good neighbor and invest in your area’s success

To register, click the above button and fill out our registration form.

Annual Hoarding Conference
2025-11-03 08:15 - 16:30 | Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio, 6393 Oak Tree Blvd, Independence, Ohio, 44131, United States
Registration for the Annual Hoarding Conference is now closed.

Join us for our Annual Hoarding Conference! This year’s topic is Harm Reduction for Hoarding: Translating Research Knowledge to Community Practices.

During this day long interactive workshop, keynote speaker Christiana Bratiotis, PhD Professor at the University of British Columbia, will give an overview of the definition, diagnostic categorization, demographics, prevalence, course and manifestations of hoarding. Information will also be provided about evidence-based hoarding assessments, including harm reduction interventions and the newly developed Home Environment Assessment Tool for Hoarding (HEATH).

Workshop attendees will have the opportunity to develop skills through hands-on practice with a standardized case study. Tips and strategies for enhancing motivation, effective communication and reducing risk of harm are offered for those working with and supporting people with lived experience of hoarding.

There are in-person and virtual options for attending this conference. In-person attendance includes breakfast, lunch and snack.

Pricing

In-Person Conference Ticket: $50

Virtual Conference Ticket: $50

In-Person Student Ticket: $35

Virtual Student Ticket: $35

Continuing Education Units

The ADAMHS Board is an approved provider through the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board and the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, Marriage and Family Therapist Board offering Recognized Clock Hours (RCH) to Chemical Dependency Professionals, as well as Continuing Professional Education hours (CEUs) to Counselors and Social Workers and has awarded 6 CEU/RCHs for this conference. All participants must attend the entire conference and complete an evaluation form with full licensure information to receive CEUs/RCHs. No partial CEUs/RCHs will be provided. Please allow 30 days from date of conference for attendance to be recorded in CE Broker and receipt of certificate. Certificates will be emailed to the email address used at registration.

For questions on CEUs, please contact Carmen Gandarilla at (216) 479-3268 or gandarilla@adamhscc.org. If you wish to register a group, please email Jen Cosma at jcosma@benrose.org.

Agenda

TimeDescription8:15 AM- 8:50 AM-Registration and Breakfast in person -Log on and attendance for online registrants 8:50 AM-9:00 AMWelcome and Introduction of Christiana Bratiotis Ph.D., Keynote Speaker -Orion Bell, President and CEO Benjamin Rose-Leshia Yarbrough Franklin Hoarding Connection Co-Chair and ADAMHS Board Cuyahoga County 9:00 AM-10:30 AMHoarding basics (including DSM 5 criteria, manifestations, etiology, course and prevalence)10:30 AM-10:45 AMBreak 10:45 AM-12:15 PM-Prevention, early intervention and intervention overview-Common legal concerns and hoarding behavior (including ADA disability reasonable accommodation)12:15 PM-1:15 PMLunch1:15 PM-2:45 PM-Introduction to assessment of hoarding—tools and principles-Small group assessment gractice using the case study and HEATH-Goal planning and Intervention using case study 2:45 PM-3:00 PMBreak 3:00 PM-4:30 PM-Harm reduction principles and plan using case study-Necessary companion interventions including case management and motivational interviewing

Speaker

Christiana Bratiotis, PhD, MSW Associate Professor, School of Social Work, The University of British Columbia
Dr. Christiana Bratiotis is an Associate Professor in the School of Social Work at The University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, where she teaches social work practice classes across the master’s and PhD programs and supervises social work doctoral students. She currently serves as Faculty Chair of the MSW program. Christiana has led work in the formation and operation of multi-disciplinary community hoarding task forces around the world and is the leading global authority on implementing community-based interventions for hoarding. Her current research interests center on hoarding treatment and intervention efforts in the context of affordable housing and community-based organizations. Christiana has authored two books on hoarding: The Hoarding Handbook: A Guide for Human Service Professionals (2013) and Hoarding: What Everyone Needs to Know (2020), both released by Oxford University Press. Dr. Christiana Bratiotis is an Associate Professor in the School of Social Work at The University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, where she teaches social work practice classes across the master’s and PhD programs and supervises social work doctoral students. She currently serves as Faculty Chair of the MSW program. Christiana has led work in the formation and operation of multi-disciplinary community hoarding task forces around the world and is the leading global authority on implementing community-based interventions for hoarding. Her current research interests center on hoarding treatment and intervention efforts in the context of affordable housing and community-based organizations. Christiana has authored two books on hoarding: The Hoarding Handbook: A Guide for Human Service Professionals (2013) and Hoarding: What Everyone Needs to Know (2020), both released by Oxford University Press.

Throughout her academic career, she has also taught courses in social welfare, mental health policy and social analysis. In addition to her scholarly work, she supervises students who provide clinical treatment and she offers national and international consultation on hoarding behaviour to families and communities.

In 2017 Christiana took advantage of an opportunity to relocate to Vancouver and became an affiliated faculty with the UBC Centre for Collaborative Research on Hoarding where she conducts cross-disciplinary research and co-supervises clinical psychology students.

She has given more than 250 invited community lectures, keynote addresses, agency clinical trainings and academic presentations around the world. In 2011, Christiana developed the HOMES Multi-disciplinary Hoarding Risk Assessment which has been translated into six languages and is a tool used by communities to assess risk and guide hoarding interventions.

Dr. Bratiotis earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Psychology and Masters of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Nevada, Reno. She completed a 1-year post-MSW fellowship at the Yale School of Medicine, Child Study Center. Christiana served as executive director for two non-profit organizations and has more than 23 years of experience working in and with communities to build capacity and address issues of diversity and social justice.
Her work has been highlighted by media outlets including the Canadian Press, The Vancouver Sun, the New York Times, Boston Globe and the Chicago Tribune.

In 2014, Christiana received the Tenancy Assistance Program Individual Award from Boston’s MassHousing and in 2010, she was recognized with an Excellence in Teaching Award by Boston University. She consistently achieves exceptionally high teaching evaluations and in her words, “is honoured to contribute to the development of emerging social work practitioners and behavioural health interventionists.”
Read More

Care-Based Estate Planning for Families Living with Dementia
2025-11-06 15:30 - 16:30 | https://www.benrose.org/event/estate-planning/
REGISTER

Estate planning is necessary and provides peace of mind, but wills, trusts and powers of attorney can all seem terribly complicated and intimidating to many families.

This valuable webinar provides professionals and family caregivers with practical guidance on estate planning, Medicaid rules, and long-term care funding strategies tailored to families living with dementia. Todd Bartimole, founding partner of Cleveland Elder Law, will provide simple explanations and fresh perspectives on how to help families tackle challenging activities, including:

Pre- and post-diagnosis estate planning essentials

Common gaps in estate planning documents when someone is diagnosed

How to fund long-term care while preserving assets for the family

Medicaid rules and regulations every caregiver should know

Caregiver resources on estate planning and Medicaid

Holistic elder law support

This is a great opportunity for BRI Care Consultants and other professionals to learn how to help families accomplish their financial and legal priorities. There will also be plenty of time for questions from attendees. We hope to see you there!

Virtual Second Wednesday with Benjamin Rose
2025-11-12 09:00 - 10:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/virtual-second-wednesday-with-benjamin-rose/

Ask the Expert: Keeping the “Happy” in the Holidays
2025-11-13 12:00 - 13:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/happy-holidays/
REGISTER

From Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, the holiday season is supposed to be filled with peace and joy. Unfortunately, we all know that’s not always the case, especially when you’re caring for an older adult.

Please join us for Keeping the “Happy” in Happy Holidays to learn how you both can navigate more effectively through the holiday season. We’ll present tips and techniques to deal with stressful situations, and even how to find time for yourself to enjoy the joys of the season. The Ask the Expert webinar series is an interactive educational experience that allows you to get answers to your most pressing questions about care. Our Experts in areas of family caregiving, dementia care, finding services and support, planning future care and more are prepared to address your challenges and offer guidance to help you provide exceptional levels of care.

Financial Education Workshops
2025-11-17 14:00 - 15:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/financial-education-nov2025/
REGISTER

Benjamin Rose, a HUD-approved housing and financial counseling agency, provides a variety of free workshops and counseling services.

Our financial workshops are a five-part series. This registration is for the following days, from 2:00-3:00 PM:

November 17 (Mon)

November 18 (Tues)

November 19 (Wed)

November 20 (Thurs)

November 21 (Fri)

Recognizing & Avoiding Elder Financial Abuse, Scams & Fraud – Module 1

November 17

While this is a great course for all, it’s even better for our older adults or anyone caring for an older adult. You will learn what elder financial exploitation is and why older adults are at risk, who the abusers are, and where to report the abuse. This workshop also covers how to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft, the different scams that are out and how to spot them. What to do and who to call if you believe you have been a victim of a scam and how to guard yourself against identity & medical theft. Don’t become a victim! Register today!

Preparing for the Future – Module 2

November 18

In this course you will learn what an estate is, how to prepare an estate plan, advance healthcare directives and prepare yourself for unexpected life events. It is never too early to start estate planning. Register today to start preparing for your future!

Budgeting, Goal Setting & Saving – Module 3

November 19

This course provides an informative session about where you are, where you want to go, and how to get there. Topics include tools to manage your money, identify personal goals, and how to budget and save. Go for the GOAL and Register today!

Taking Control of Credit & Debt – Module 4

November 20

Whether you want to set a financial goal, get out of debt, or manage your payments, this course will provide tools and resources in navigating it all. Register today and make this the year YOU take control!

Benefitting from Benefits – Module 5

November 21

Don’t lose out on the benefit of seeing what benefits you may qualify for. Register today!

Homebuyer Education
2025-11-17 18:00 - 20:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/homebuyer-education-nov2025/
REGISTER

Are you interested in buying a home but not sure where to start?

Our FREE HUD-approved homebuyer education class can teach you the important basics of the home buying process. We will provide you with the knowledge you’ll need to secure an affordable mortgage and buy the right house for you.

This course is a four-part series. This registration is for the following days, from 6-8 PM:

November 17 (Mon)

November 18 (Tues)

November 19 (Weds)

November 20 (Thurs)

Session One: Budget & Credit

November 17

Examine your money profile

Learn how to better manage your money through spending plans, tracking income & expenses, goal setting and building your savings

Explore the importance of credit and learn tips to establish and improve your credit

Review how to avoid and handle identity theft

Session Two: Obtaining a Mortgage Loan & Your Consumer Rights

November 18

Learn how to qualify and get pre-approved for a mortgage loan

Review affordability and how to determine how much money to spend on buying a home

Learn your rights as a loan consumer

Session Three: Shopping for a Home & the Importance of a Home Inspection

November 19

Learn how to shop for a home, from finding the right neighborhood to considering which type of home is right for you

Explore tips on how to work with an agent

Learn about the purchase, sale, escrow, and closing processes

Review the professional home inspection process and why it’s so important

Session Four: Home Insurance & Maintaining Your Home

November 20

Learn how to protect your home through insurance, liability protection and home safety measures

Explore different ways to maintain your home

Embrace your neighborhood and learn ways to explore your community, be a good neighbor and invest in your area’s success

To register, click the above button and fill out our registration form.

Annual Caregiving Conference 2025- From Story to Strategy: Empowering Caregivers, Shaping Policy
2025-12-02 08:30 - 15:00 | Benjamin Rose Conference Center, 11890 Fairhill Road, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
Benjamin Rose invites you to join us for our Annual Caregiving Conference, From Story to Strategy: Empowering Caregivers, Shaping Policy, on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This year’s full-day conference will explore two central themes: the caregiver experience and the policies that can better support caregivers, such as paid family caregiver leave.

The morning session will open with remarks from Regina Brett, bestselling author, Cleveland Jewish News journalist, and a caregiver with her own experiences of navigating the often difficult world of dementia care. These remarks will be followed by keynote speaker and esteemed author Dasha Kiper. Kiper will share insights on why caregiving can feel so overwhelming, drawing from brain science to explain the challenges of adapting to illness—and how caregivers can navigate these struggles.

REGISTER

Attendees will also hear firsthand experiences from a panel of local caregivers, moderated by Tiffany Tarpley of Good Morning Cleveland.

In the afternoon, the focus will turn to current and emerging caregiver policies, with perspectives from organizations such as Collaborate Cleveland, the Alzheimer’s Association and the Ohio AARP chapter.

Tickets are $60 for professionals, with continuing education credits available for social workers. Registration and breakfast begin at 8:30 a.m., and conference activities will kick off at 9:00 a.m. All sales are final.

If you wish to register a group, please contact Megan Huth at mhuth@benrose.org.

Agenda

8:30 AM Registration 9:00 AM Welcome and Housekeeping Orion H. Bell IV 9:05 AM Caregiving That Starts From the Heart Makes Every Heart Stronger Regina Brett 9:35 AM Your Brain on Caregiving – Keynote Presentation Dasha Kiper 10:50 AM Break 11:00 AM Caregiver Panel Moderated by Tiffany Tarpley 12:00 PM Lunch – Tabling and Popup Bookshop with Mac’s Backs 12:45 PM Bradley Cooper Film Snippet 1:15 PM Golden Buckeye Center for Dementia Caregiving – What’s New for 2026! Morgan Fitzgerald – Golden State Buckeye Center for Dementia Caregiving Research and Advocacy at Benjamin Rose David Bass 2:00 PM Policy Roundtable Moderated by Orion Bell Abby Westbrook, CEO of Collaborate Cleveland Jenny Carlson, OH AARP Trey Addison, Alzheimer’s Association OH Chapter Orion Bell, Benjamin Rose, moderator 3:00 PM Conclusion

Apply for a Scholarship

Are you a student or caregiver interested in the conference topics? Apply for a scholarship to the Caregiving Conference for the opportunity to attend this year’s event free of charge. The scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate students, as well as family caregivers who want to deepen their understanding of caregiver experiences and policy solutions that support them. Apply here: https://benrose.wufoo.com/forms/z187nhpa1b20j24/.

Keynote Speaker

Dasha Kiper
After receiving her MA in clinical psychology from Columbia University, Dasha Kiper became a live-in caregiver for a holocaust survivor suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. For the past fifteen years, she has supported family and professional caregivers and mental health professionals. She was the clinical director of support groups at an Alzheimer’s organization and is currently the director of caregiver support at Renewal Memory Partners. Her book Travelers to Unimaginable Lands: Stories of Dementia, the Caregiver, and the Human Brain, published to wide acclaim both in the U.S. and abroad, interweaves case histories and brain science to illuminate the neurological challenges facing family caregivers.

Sponsor the Caregiving Conference

By joining us as a sponsor, your organization will demonstrate its leadership in supporting the caregiving community while gaining visibility among a diverse and engaged audience. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Jen Cosma at (216) 373-1688 or jcosma@benrose.org. Download the sponsorship prospectus here.

Individual vendor tables are sold out! You can still be a vendor by purchasing a Bronze level sponsorship or higher.To be added to the vendor only waitlist, please email jcosma@benrose.org.

Online sponsor payments can be made here.

Sponsors

Diamond Sponsor

Gold Sponsor

Virtual Second Wednesday with Benjamin Rose
2025-12-10 09:00 - 10:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/virtual-second-wednesday-with-benjamin-rose-13/

Rose on the Go: Charcuterie Design
2025-12-16 13:00 - 14:30 | Spry Senior, 14770 Snow Rd, Brook Park, Ohio, 44142, United States
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT! IF YOU’D LIKE TO BE PUT ON THE WAITING LIST, CONTACT TIM FREY AT tfrey@benrose.org!

Cheese, Please: A Guided Charcuterie Class

Discover the art of elegant entertaining in this hands-on charcuterie board workshop led by Sharcuterie By Shanell. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, you’ll leave with new skills, creative inspiration, and a completed board to enjoy. All materials are included — just bring your curiosity and appetite!

Rose on the Go: House Plants 101
2025-12-18 17:30 - 18:30 | Urban Planting Cleveland, 2410 Scranton Road, Cleveland, Ohio, 44113, United States
REGISTER

Join Urban Planting Cleveland for House Plants 101, a festive workshop that teaches the basics of choosing, caring for, and troubleshooting your indoor plants. You’ll learn simple tips to keep your greenery thriving through the holiday season and beyond.

Participants will take home their own holiday plant with the option to decorate for a more festive look!

FREE PARKING behind the building off Scranton Rd as well as free street parking. All participants will be offered 20% off any purchases at Urban Planting Cleveland!

Homebuyer Education
2026-01-07 18:00 - 20:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/hbe-jan2026/
REGISTER

Are you interested in buying a home but not sure where to start?

Our FREE HUD-approved homebuyer education class can teach you the important basics of the home buying process. We will provide you with the knowledge you’ll need to secure an affordable mortgage and buy the right house for you.

This course is a four-part series. This registration is for the following days, from 6-8 PM:

January 7

January 14

January 21

January 28

Session One: Budget & Credit

January 7

Examine your money profile

Learn how to better manage your money through spending plans, tracking income & expenses, goal setting and building your savings

Explore the importance of credit and learn tips to establish and improve your credit

Review how to avoid and handle identity theft

Session Two: Obtaining a Mortgage Loan & Your Consumer Rights

January 14

Learn how to qualify and get pre-approved for a mortgage loan

Review affordability and how to determine how much money to spend on buying a home

Learn your rights as a loan consumer

Session Three: Shopping for a Home & the Importance of a Home Inspection

January 21

Learn how to shop for a home, from finding the right neighborhood to considering which type of home is right for you

Explore tips on how to work with an agent

Learn about the purchase, sale, escrow, and closing processes

Review the professional home inspection process and why it’s so important

Session Four: Home Insurance & Maintaining Your Home

January 28

Learn how to protect your home through insurance, liability protection and home safety measures

Explore different ways to maintain your home

Embrace your neighborhood and learn ways to explore your community, be a good neighbor and invest in your area’s success

To register, click the above button and fill out our registration form.

Virtual Second Wednesday with Benjamin Rose
2026-01-14 09:00 - 10:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/virtual-second-wednesday-with-benjamin-rose-3/

Aging in Place: Know Your Housing Options
2026-01-20 14:00 - 15:30 | https://www.benrose.org/event/aging-in-place2026/
REGISTER

Our FREE Aging in Place: Know Your Housing Options course is designed to assess homes for safety, accessibility, and affordability; explore ways to use home equity to stay in the home; and discover housing options.

This course is a three-part series. This registration is for the following days, from 2:00-3:30 PM:

January 20 (Tues)

January 21 (Weds)

January 22 (Thurs)

Session One:

Assessing Your Home – Is it Safe? Is it Accessible? Is it Affordable?

January 20

Learn what it means to age in place

Assess your current home based on your current needs

Create a continuum of care plan based on health, supports, and both current and future needs

Review safety and accessibility in the home through safety checklists

Learn about fall prevention

Explore home affordability and the importance of budgeting

Session two:

Using Your Home Equity to Keep Your Home

January 21

Learn the definition of home equity and why it matters

Explore different ways to use home equity to age in place:

Single purpose loans and grants

Home equity loans

Home equity line of credit

Reverse mortgages

Session three:

Exploring Housing Options for Older Adults

January 22

Medicaid Waiver

Learn about activities of daily living (ADLs)

Explore different housing options for older adults:

Senior Apartments

Independent Living

Assisted Living

Skilled Nursing & Rehab Facilities

Co-Housing & Shared Housing

Learn about potential ways to pay for housing:

Veteran benefits

Long-term care insurance

Ask the Expert: Live Q&A Hour for Caregivers
2026-01-22 12:00 - 13:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/live-qa/
REGISTER

Don’t miss this opportunity to get all your questions about caring for an older adult answered by experts in the field! Join us for this informal ask-and-learn session for family and friend caregivers.

Everything is on the table — ask us anything you need to know about caring for an older adult, from managing challenging behaviors to bathing and meals, safety, nutrition, housing transitions, mood swings, and even finding time for self-care. At the same time, you’ll take away tons of valuable insights and tips as our Experts answer questions from others facing similar challenges.

The Ask the Expert webinar series is an interactive educational experience that allows you to get answers to your most pressing questions about care.

Our Experts in areas of family caregiving, dementia care, finding services and support, planning future care and more are prepared to address your challenges and offer guidance to help you provide the best care possible.

Financial Education Workshops
2026-01-26 14:00 - 15:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/financial-education-jan26/
REGISTER

Benjamin Rose, a HUD-approved housing and financial counseling agency, provides a variety of free workshops and counseling services.

Our financial workshops are a five-part series. This registration is for the following days, from 2:00-3:00 PM:

January 26 (Mon)

January 27 (Tues)

January 28 (Wed)

January 29 (Thurs)

January 30 (Fri)

Recognizing & Avoiding Elder Financial Abuse, Scams & Fraud – Module 1

January 26

While this is a great course for all, it’s even better for our older adults or anyone caring for an older adult. You will learn what elder financial exploitation is and why older adults are at risk, who the abusers are, and where to report the abuse. This workshop also covers how to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft, the different scams that are out and how to spot them. What to do and who to call if you believe you have been a victim of a scam and how to guard yourself against identity & medical theft. Don’t become a victim! Register today!

Preparing for the Future – Module 2

January 27

In this course you will learn what an estate is, how to prepare an estate plan, advance healthcare directives and prepare yourself for unexpected life events. It is never too early to start estate planning. Register today to start preparing for your future!

Budgeting, Goal Setting & Saving – Module 3

January 28

This course provides an informative session about where you are, where you want to go, and how to get there. Topics include tools to manage your money, identify personal goals, and how to budget and save. Go for the GOAL and Register today!

Taking Control of Credit & Debt – Module 4

January 29

Whether you want to set a financial goal, get out of debt, or manage your payments, this course will provide tools and resources in navigating it all. Register today and make this the year YOU take control!

Benefitting from Benefits – Module 5

January 30

Don’t lose out on the benefit of seeing what benefits you may qualify for. Register today!

Invisible Consequences: How Federal Policy Shapes Economic Security for Older Adults
2026-01-28 14:00 - 15:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/invisible-consequences/
Explore how legislative changes—especially the Older Americans Act, the Big Beautiful Bill and Social Security adjustments—affect older adults even when they are not the intended policy targets. Discuss how eligibility rules, documentation requirements and reporting burdens create barriers to benefits such as Medicaid, SNAP, housing and caregiver assistance. Examine how policy shifts influence housing stability, consumer debt (including mortgages and student loans) and caregiving supports, all of which shape real-world access to basic security.

Proposed policy solutions include—simplifying eligibility and documentation across aging-related programs, expanding automatic enrollment for means-tested benefits, and funding the Older Americans Act at levels that sustain caregiving and housing stability.

Projected fiscal impact: These reforms would require moderate federal and state administrative modernization investments (estimated $2–$4 billion) but could yield long-term savings of 5%–10% in benefit administration and healthcare costs by reducing duplication, fraud and delayed access to preventive services.

Presenters:

Orion Bell, MBA, is president and CEO at the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging, having joined Benjamin Rose in 2019 with more than 30 years’ leadership experience in not-for-profit management. Prior to Benjamin Rose, he served as president and CEO at CICOA Aging and In-Home Solutions, the largest of Indiana’s 16 Area Agencies on Aging, overseeing a staff of 240 and an operating budget of $27 million. Bell is an active member of ASA’s Economic Security Advisory Council.

Robert “Bob” Blancato is national coordinator of the bipartisan 3,000-member Elder Justice Coalition, and president of Matz, Blancato and Associates, executive director of the National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs, and national coordinator of the Defeat Malnutrition Today coalition. He has testified numerous times before House and Senate committees, served 17 years as a staffer in Congress, having been appointed by President Clinton to be executive director of the 1995 White House Conference on Aging, one of four he participated in. He serves as second vice chair of the AARP board and on the AARP Foundation board, as well as on the board of the National Hispanic Council on Aging.

Judith Kozlowski is an independent elder justice consultant and a senior fellow at the Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement. She was a subject matter expert with the DOJ Elder Justice Initiative for more than 10 years, and prior to that, senior advisor to the HHS Assistant Secretary for Aging and at the ACL, where she helped develop national policy initiatives concerning elder abuse and financial exploitation. Kozlowski helped establish the Office for the Financial Protection of Older Americans at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. She co-chairs ASA’s Economic Security Advisory Council.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the policy design process and unintended effects on aging populations, caregivers and households carrying long-term debt.

Analyze real-world case studies of eligibility exclusion in Medicaid, SNAP and housing programs.

Identify advocacy strategies to reduce administrative and procedural inequalities and to strengthen the caregiving and housing safety net.

Who should attend this session:

Government and public-sector administrators

National, state and local aging advocates

Public policy staff at nonprofits, associations and foundations

Government relations and policy analysts focused on aging, health or economic security

Think tank and research teams

Homebuyer Education
2026-02-03 18:00 - 20:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/hbe-feb3/
REGISTER

Are you interested in buying a home but not sure where to start?

Our FREE HUD-approved homebuyer education class can teach you the important basics of the home buying process. We will provide you with the knowledge you’ll need to secure an affordable mortgage and buy the right house for you.

This course is a four-part series. This registration is for the following days, from 6-8 PM:

February 3 (Tues)

February 5 (Thurs)

February 9 (Mon)

February 12 (Thurs)

Session One: Budget & Credit

February 3

Examine your money profile

Learn how to better manage your money through spending plans, tracking income & expenses, goal setting and building your savings

Explore the importance of credit and learn tips to establish and improve your credit

Review how to avoid and handle identity theft

Session Two: Obtaining a Mortgage Loan & Your Consumer Rights

February 5

Learn how to qualify and get pre-approved for a mortgage loan

Review affordability and how to determine how much money to spend on buying a home

Learn your rights as a loan consumer

Session Three: Shopping for a Home & the Importance of a Home Inspection

February 9

Learn how to shop for a home, from finding the right neighborhood to considering which type of home is right for you

Explore tips on how to work with an agent

Learn about the purchase, sale, escrow, and closing processes

Review the professional home inspection process and why it’s so important

Session Four: Home Insurance & Maintaining Your Home

February 12

Learn how to protect your home through insurance, liability protection and home safety measures

Explore different ways to maintain your home

Embrace your neighborhood and learn ways to explore your community, be a good neighbor and invest in your area’s success

To register, click the above button and fill out our registration form.

Virtual Second Wednesday with Benjamin Rose
2026-02-11 09:00 - 10:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/virtual-second-wednesday-with-benjamin-rose-2/

Ask The Expert- Managing Incontinence: Empower Yourself with Confidence and Control
2026-02-19 12:00 - 13:00 | https://www.benrose.org/event/empower-yourself/
REGISTER

Incontinence can be a frustrating and debilitating problem. Estimated to affect as many as 50 percent of adults over 60, it can put a strain on the independent daily activities and create significant emotional distress.

Please join us for Empower Yourself with Confidence and Control as Barbie Montgomery, OTR/L Certified in Adult Bladder and Urinary Incontinence with Fox Rehabilitation, shares strategies you can use, including exercises and lifestyle changes, to help improve bladder control in the older adult you care for and reduce the impact of incontinence on your lives.

The Ask the Expert webinar series is an interactive educational experience that allows you to get answers to your most pressing questions about care. Our Experts in areas of family caregiving, dementia care, finding services and support, planning future care and more are prepared to address your challenges and offer guidance to help you provide exceptional levels of care.
