Summary: In April 1991, the Administration on Aging (AOA) launched a multiyear initiative called the National Eldercare Campaign. AOA used about $14 million of $26 million in title IV discretionary funds to support the campaign's various components. The largest portion of these funds went to a new community outreach effort, Project CARE. Under this national coalition-building demonstration program, each state was required to establish three local coalitions. At the end of 15 months, virtually all states had three local coalitions in place. A majority of coalitions had generated some resources, and about 70 percent of the coalitions were providing a service to the elderly. The campaign differs from earlier AOA initiatives in that its seeks to expand not only the Aging Network but also the resources available to them. Usually, AOA initiatives were of 12- to 24-months duration and limited to research, demonstration, and technical assistance. By the end of fiscal year 1992, about 200 coalitions had joined the Aging Network and had developed programs and services for the elderly. Although this is a significant change in both the mission and structure of the Aging Network, the success of this campaign ultimately depends upon the coalitions' ability to sustain themselves beyond the three-year funding period.
