While many American children are off playing video games and living carefree lives, there are millions of American children shouldering extraordinary responsibilities within their households. Youth caregivers—children and adolescents providing essential care for family members with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or age-related conditions—represent a critical yet rarely acknowledged demographic facing profound challenges. American Association of Caregiving Youth (AACY) is an organization championing these youths who find themselves in the challenging situation of caring for ill, injured, elderly or disabled family members.
The Prevalence of Youth Caregiving
Research from the American Association of Caregiving Youth (AACY) reveals staggering statistics. An estimated 5.4 million children aged 18 and under care for a loved one who is sick or disabled according to aacy.org.
Jacob Gutierrez is an example of a young American caring for loved ones at home. Gutierrez revealed in a segment with NBC’s Maria Shriver on TODAY that he cares for his grandmother who has dementia and his mother who is battling multiple sclerosis. Before and after school, the teen cooks for them and makes sure they have their medication and anything else they might need. “Every day when I’m in school I call at least two times per day making sure that everyone’s alright,” Gutierrez said. “There can be a lot of stress put on me.”
Like Gutierrez, many of these young individuals extend far beyond typical household assistance, delivering complex medical care, emotional support, and critical daily help to parents, grandparents, and siblings with serious health conditions.
Caregiving youth demographics span diverse socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. Families facing economic constraints, limited healthcare resources, and chronic health conditions experience this phenomenon most acutely.
Psychological and Academic Consequences
Responsibilities thrust upon young shoulders exact significant developmental tolls. Caregiving youth frequently encounter:
Academic Interference: Balancing familial medical needs with educational requirements creates increased absenteeism and reduced study opportunities.
Emotional Strain: Continuous exposure to family health crises precipitates potential anxiety, depression, and accelerated emotional maturation.
Social Development Limitations: Traditional childhood experiences diminish as caregiving responsibilities consume personal time and energy.
Physical Health Risks: Emotional and physical demands generate chronic stress and potential long-term health consequences.
AACY: Targeted Support Strategies
Recognizing these complex challenges, AACY provides comprehensive support through targeted programs such as identifying youth caregivers via school and community partnerships, delivering academic intervention and support mechanisms, constructing mental health resources and peer support networks, developing personalized care plans balancing familial responsibilities with individual development and advocating for policy changes acknowledging youth caregivers’ unique circumstances.
Reimagining Community Support
Understanding youth caregiving demands holistic approaches from education systems, healthcare providers, social services, and community organizations. Viewing these young individuals as resilient family contributors—rather than burdens—represents a critical perspective shift.
Societal recognition transforms when we comprehend the profound emotional intelligence, compassion, and strength demonstrated by children supporting their families through medical challenges. These remarkable young people deserve comprehensive support, systemic understanding, and collective appreciation for their extraordinary contributions.
“AACY is the only organization in the country dedicated solely to addressing caregiving youth issues,” AACY.org states. “We champion youth who care for chronically ill, injured, elderly, or disabled family members, support their role as caregivers, safeguard, and celebrate their success in school and life.”
Pat meat all over with paper towels, then season it all over with salt and pepper. If you want to make a smoky garlic-herb paste, combine herbs, garlic, smoked paprika and just enough olive oil to make a paste. Rub all over meat. Let meat come to room temperature for 2 to 3 hours depending upon how cold it was to begin with.
Step 2
Heat oven to 450 degrees. Place meat bone-side down in a roasting pan or on a rimmed sheet pan. Roast for 20 minutes, then turn heat to 350 degrees and continue to roast until the meat registers 115 degrees on an instant-read thermometer for rare, 125 for medium rare (it will continue to cook after you pull it out of the oven). Timing depends on your oven, your pan and the shape of your roast, so start checking after the meat has been in the oven for an hour, but it could take 1½ hours or even slightly longer.
Step 3
Let meat rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before carving.
The glow coming from the street ahead was pulling me forward. My pace quickened, not because I felt I was in trouble but because I knew what awaited me. Christmas lights. Millions of them. Sure enough, as I stepped out onto the corner of Fifth Avenue and Donnelly Street, the warmth of the season took over and enveloped me in pure holiday rapture.
The breeze coming off of the lake kicked up and I jammed my hands deep into the pockets of my jacket. Every storefront on this main street was filled with wonderful gift ideas. Holiday smells spilled out of eateries and bakeries. No, this is not a Hallmark movie. There’s nothing like the holidays and seeing the wonder in our kids eyes. I think everyone’s a kid during the holiday season. We’re all suckers for bright, sparkly things.
Unfortunately, “bright and sparkly” sometimes comes with a hefty price tag, but it doesn’t have to if you know where to go. Now, you probably think I’m going to mention Sandi the Christmas tree – the sandcastle Christmas tree in down town West Palm Beach but you are wrong (Although, it really is quite nice.) Here are three places where you and your little ones (or in my case, grown ones) can get your holiday cheer absolutely free.
St. Augustine. It’s called Nights of Lights and the oldest city in the country does not disappoint – Flager College, the Lightner Museum, even St. George Street are covered in lights. From Palm Beach County it’s about a three and a half hour drive and totally worth it. If you plan it right, you can find inexpensive food options or get your Bucee’s fix. Everything lights up starting November 23rd.
Walt Disney World – Say what? That’s right. You can get your holiday cheer without ever stepping into one of the Disney parks. I recommend making it a real adventure and parking at Disney Springs (it’s free). Hop on a Disney bus headed to Wilderness Lodge (my personal favorite). Every hotel is decorated different and the warmth and ambiance lends itself to the holidays. After sitting a spell by the fire at Wilderness Lodge, head out to the docks and pick up the boat to go to the Contemporary. There you can pick up the Monorail and visit all of the resorts on the Monorail line. My second favorite is the Grand Floridian. You will “ohh and ahh” over the life size gingerbread house.
While you are in the Orlando area, travel a bit west to Mount Dora. This is a new location for me and it’s absolutely charming. It’s that small town out of the Hallmark movie. Light Up Mount Dora starts November 26th and should not be missed. Donnelly Park and all of downtown Mount Dora will be lit up with holiday cheer.
So there you have it, three places in the state to help you get your holiday on, but whatever you do, make it fun, make it memorable. Our time with our kids is fleeting. My wish for you is that you are filled with the joy and wonder of the holiday season and that you savor every moment.
Christmas as we all know is the celebration of God’s ultimate gift: the birth of Jesus, the Christ child. The name ‘Christmas’ comes from the Mass of Christ (or Jesus). A Mass service (which is sometimes called Communion or Eucharist) is where Christians remember that Jesus died for us and then came back to life. The English term Christmas is of fairly recent origin. The earlier term Yulemay have derived from the Germanic jōl or the Anglo-Saxon geōl, which referred to the feast of the winter solstice. The corresponding terms in other languages—Navidad in Spanish, Natale in Italian, Noëli n French—all probably denote nativity. The German word Weihnachten denotes “hallowed night.” Since the early 20th century, Christmas has also been a secular family holiday, observed by Christians and non-Christians alike. Religions around the world have taken Christmas traditions and added their own idea to fit their diverse cultures!
Some of those Religions include:
Christians: Christians celebrate Christmas with traditions such as decorating trees, hanging stockings, singing carols, and exchanging gifts. They may also attend religious observances like midnight mass or vespers on Christmas Eve.
Buddhists: Some Buddhists celebrate Christmas as a separate holiday from Christianity, and may participate in traditions like decorating trees, visiting family, and exchanging gifts.
Hindus: Some Hindu families celebrate Christmas as an extension of Diwali, a lunar celebration that takes place in October or November.
Chinese: In China, Christmas is not a major holiday, but some people celebrate it as a secular holiday. Popular traditions include decorating trees, exchanging gifts, and eating with family and friends.
Australians: In Australia, Christmas takes place during the summer, so celebrations often include beach visits and barbecues.
Maltese: After midnight mass, the Maltese traditionally drink Imbuljuta tal-Qastan, a beverage made with chocolate and chestnuts.
Slovenes: Slovenes traditionally prepare potica, a Christmas bread.
French: In France, people traditionally prepare bûche de Noël.
Italians: In Italy, people traditionally prepare panettone.
WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Set your holiday GPS for Hilton West Palm Beach and make cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Holiday events at Hilton West Palm Beach:
Photos with Santa
Thursday, December 12
4-7pm
Free
Santa is flying in from the North Pole to take photos with all of his favorite fans! Milk and homemade cookies will be served. Guests are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for Hilton West Palm Beach’s annual toy drive in partnership with the West Palm Beach Police Department. Reservations are recommended. Info HERE.
Get Into The Holiday Spirits Cocktail Experience
Sunday, December 15
5-6:30pm
$60
Shake up some good cheer this year at The Holiday Spirits Cocktail Experience! Enjoy a welcome cocktail then hit the bar to concoct holiday potions under the tutelage of Galley’s head mixologist, Hauk Cornell. Receive 20% off dinner at Galley before or after the class. Info HERE.
Moonlight Movies
Friday, December 20
7-9pm
Free
Experience a good holiday chuckle under the stars with free popcorn and a complimentary movie viewing of Elf. Info HERE.
Santa Brunch
Sunday, December 22
11:30am-3pm
$65 for adults; $25 for children, ages 4 to 10
Meet Santa for a holiday brunch at Mezze! Enjoy a gourmet buffet, festive music, and kid-friendly activations. Santa Claus and his merry Elf will take photos tableside with guests from 12-2pm. Reservations are recommended. Info HERE.
Hilton West Palm Beach is located at 600 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach. For more information, call (561) 231-6000 or visit hiltonwestpalmbeach.com.
WHAT: Kai-Kai Farm invites you to an extraordinary farm-to-table dinner featuring the culinary talents of Chefs Jimmy Everett and Tommy Coombs from Driftwood. Guests will indulge in a thoughtfully crafted five-course menu, highlighting the freshest seasonal produce from Kai-Kai Farm, paired with exceptional flavors and techniques.
Start the evening with a guided tour of Kai-Kai Farm’s lush fields to discover the sustainable practices behind the meal. Savor creative dishes such as Local Fish Crudo, Harissa Roasted Kai-Kai Eggplant, and Smoked Quincey Cattle Short Ribs, all featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Live music by Carla Holbrook will set the perfect ambiance for this unique dining experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate local agriculture, culinary artistry, and community in a truly memorable way.
One of my favorite hobbies is dancing. I am intrigued by all of its facets: from the steps, costumes, music, origin of the dance, and the style of the instructor. It has been 5 years for me, moving from a Beginner to an Intermediate Bronze level in Fred Astaire Wellington and I attribute my great success to the amazing instructors at the studio. Although I have mastered quite a few dances, I still work on learning to be more proficient in Salsa. Ana Esquerre is “Queen of Salsa” and demonstrates her wonderful prowess teaching Salsa Workshops and lessons at FAW. She is an instructor that gives her students more than steps; she creates passion and feeling while simultaneously encouraging her students. Behind every great dancer there is always a story. I was honored that Ana took some time away from her dancing to share her story in this interview. I assure you, you will be literally, “moved.”
Step by Step
AW: What or who inspired you to be a dancer?
A.E: When I was five years old, I went on a trip to Miami. I was going to see my dad with my mom and sister. A few days into our stay, we walked from our place to explore Bayside, a downtown area in Miami. There was a stage where we heard music playing in the midst. It turned out that they were actually having a live dance contest. My dad noticed that I couldn’t help myself and felt compelled to move to the music. Without any warning at all, he told me to go up on the stage for the dance contest. At first, I hesitated but then he PUSHED me to go up on that stage. Next thing I know, I WON the dance contest and I haven’t stopped dancing since that moment! So, I guess I owe it to my father for pushing my limits where he knew I was already a winner. I have carried this “winner” mentality into everything that I do.
AW: Where did you study dancing?
A.E: I studied dancing in various schools and teams; from professionals to school-oriented classes. I learned to dance Salsa from various platforms; There are quite a few to name. I owe my success to: Prestige Dance Company, Elite Dance Company, Sikan by Marisol Blanco and many more.
AW: How do you label yourself? Solely as a Salsa Instructor or do you delve into different genres of dance?
A.E: I’d like to think of myself as an instructor of many skills and assets. Not only do I take classes to improve myself and learn different cultures and dances, but also to help me educate others. I specialize in Salsa, Latin Rhythm and Afro-Cuban folkloric dances because it goes back to my roots.
AW: What is your role at Fred Astaire in Wellington?
A.E.: My role at Fred Astaire Wellington is: dance teacher and choreographer, specializing in Latin Rhythms.
AW: What is the “secret” to being a good salsa dancer?
A.E: The secret is to continue your training, stay consistent, and practice makes better NOT perfect. My advice is to explore other dances, and learn from ALL teachers, techniques and cultures. There is so much to learn!
AW: I have seen you perform before at our studio and know you perform in other locales with a Dance Troupe. Please tell us more about this endeavor.
A.E: I am part of a super dynamic girl group. We are under the direction of Melanie Castillo. We have been Dance colleagues since 2017 where I had the privilege of competing with her. Since then, we are part of this team, performing choreography all over for the world for dance events.
AW: How can people contact you and see more of your dancing?
A.E: I am on Instagram: anaesquerredance or …
Facebook: Ana Esquerre. I also teach every Monday night at 6:45pm at Fred Astaire Wellington. In addition, anyone can reach out to me for private lessons.
AW: What are some highlights of your dancing career? Any special memories to share?
A.E: I have so many memories that involve dancing, it really has been an exciting career for me. One memory that sticks out is from more recently: when I took the stage at the New York Salsa Congress for the first time to perform my solo. You never really know what it is going to be until you actually do it. It was quite the experience and exhilarating for me. There was a “welcoming” feeling from fellow performers and organizers of the event.
In retrospect, it really for me is about travelling to these beautiful places and seeing other people as passionate to learn as I am. I have met some of my greatest friends throughout my travels and it has been so fulfilling!
Last but not least, I have memories of competing; it is something as a dancer that at one point in your life you must compete. This “dance world” has a lot to offer and many great opportunities for us to succeed. We have to make sure we take advantage of these opportunities and competitions are a great way to familiarize myself with how the world works.
In the end, any memory of me performing at an event, teaching, dancing, or being with my students is fulfilling for me. It has helped create the teacher and dancer I am today and I continue to learn everyday from my students and colleagues as time goes by.
AW: What are some challenges you have faced as an instructor?
A.E: The greatest challenge is definitely teaching something that is going to be different for everyone. You have your beginners, intermediate and advanced students . The greatest challenge is making sure that everyone will be able to take something from the dancing and that is what I strive to do. It has helped me with my social skills. I never really had a problem but meeting with people has always been an interesting experience. But the “teacher” part can be a challenge. As a teacher you have to train yourself to feel comfortable and patient in different situations with your students and be able to ensure that whatever level they are at, you can still teach them.
AW: What are some things about Salsa that people DON’T know and SHOULD know?
A.E: A lot of people, students included don’t know that there are Salsa “Congresses.” There’s a whole community in South Florida that is dedicated to learning Salsa and Bachata and every night of the week people go to practice their steps. It is really beautiful and admirable how the dance community keeps people going. There’s so many genres of dance that people don’t know about: Fusion, Afro-Cuban, Iziko. People who just start taking dance lessons usually don’t know about this at all. The people in these groups are all over the world from 1,000 people to more than 4,000 people.
AW: Many people associate Salsa with the Hispanic/Latino Community solely in the United States. Would you say that it has spread beyond these parameters and communities?
A.E: Salsa dancing is no longer just being taught and practiced in the United States within the Hispanic /Latino Community. In fact, it has become popular globally in places such as: Japan, China, Amsterdam, Norway, and Greece. I have a really good friend from Central America that lives in Norway and he has a school out there. Salsa is universal. Another thing that I love is you get to meet up with and experience so many different cultures: Chinese, Caribbean, Japanese, Nordic, etc.
AW: What are your future plans for Dance?
A.E. : My plans for the future include getting more “known” here in West Palm Beach, having my own studio and forming my own team. I am making my own videos and those of my students and getting a lot of help along the way. My goal is to work with various studios to collaborate with their students and grow my own dance community.
Just Dance… Ana Esquerre is not just a phenomenal dance instructor and choreographer but she is a promoter of culture, passion and education. At the beginning of our interview Ana spoke of her dad’s great influence in promoting her self-confidence and instilling in her the motivation she needed to become a “winner.” When I have taken a group class with her or watched her work with other students, I can see that she has definitely followed her father’s footsteps and has carried on the “legacy” of making others feel proud and confident. I hope that one day you will get to take a class with Ana, whether it be a group or a private lesson because she will not just teach you the dance, but will let you experience it through her growing passion for Salsa and Latin rhythm.
On Tuesday, November 19th, Grandma’s Place held its 9th Annual Grandma’s Angels Holiday Luncheon at The Sailfish Club in Palm Beach. The 215 guests sipped on wine and champagne as they bid on over 250 silent auction items.
Co-Chairs Toni O’Brien and Joan O’Connell welcomed and thanked all of Committee members including Susy Burrowes, Angelica Ciminella, Amy Considine, Margaret Donnelley, Manda Galin, Hilda Gonzalez, Patti Hadden, Barbara Hollender, Ryan Hollihan, Jourdan Isasi, Eleanor Jones, Mary Lewis Moews, Elizabeth Nunez, Brendita Nunez, Madison O’Connell, Amy Quattlebaum, Michele Roth, Dina Rubio, Jodie Schmitz, Holly Tabernilla, and Jaime Taylor.
Local CBS12 News Anchor Liz Quirantes once again graciously served as the celebrity emcee. Dr. Heidi Schaeffer, the Honorary Chair, spoke passionately about the importance of saving our children. Olivia Knowles, the featured speaker and founder of Olivia’s Hot Cocoa Stand, emphasized that together we can all make a difference. Then Neil Saffer auctioned off 7 fabulous live auction items.
The proceeds benefit Grandma’s Place, which provides shelter and loving care to children who have suffered abuse or neglect and have been removed from their homes, and also provides respite care for young children with disabilities while offering support to their parents/caregivers to maximize each child’s safety and success.
