Modern Estate Planning Blog

Featuring Michelle Nevins from Del Oro Caregiver Resource Center, in conversation with Elder Law Attorney Heather Chubb

Caregiving can be one of the most rewarding—and most overwhelming—experiences a person faces. In the midst of medical appointments, emotional strain, and balancing daily life, caregivers often forget to take care of themselves.

That’s why Del Oro Caregiver Resource Center exists—and why elder law attorney Heather Chubb invited Michelle Nevins, Executive Director of Del Oro, to join her for a heartfelt conversation about the free resources available to caregivers.

What Is Del Oro Caregiver Resource Center?

Heather Chubb: “Michelle, I’m so glad to have you with us. Tell us about Del Oro—because I think of it as a hidden gem everyone needs to know about!”

Michelle Nevins: “Thank you, Heather. I love sharing this! Del Oro is a private nonprofit that helps support family caregivers who are caring for someone at home. We’re here to take care of the caregiver, so the whole situation doesn’t fall apart.”

Their goal? To improve the emotional and physical well-being of caregivers, helping them stay strong enough to care for their loved ones—for as long as they choose to continue.

Who Does Del Oro Help?

Heather: “Can you share examples of the kinds of clients you serve?”

Michelle: “Most of our caregivers fall into two categories: a spouse caring for a partner, or an adult child caring for a parent. But we help all kinds of relationships—even chosen family. We also support male caregivers, who often have unique needs. In fact, we have a men’s caregiver support group just for that reason.”

Heather adds that Michelle’s story reminded her of her own father’s caregiving journey—showing just how relatable and needed this work is.

Core Services Offered

Heather: “Let’s dive into the services. What do you actually provide?”

Michelle: “Our biggest service is Family Consultation. We start with an intake and assessment to understand the caregiver’s situation: what’s working, what’s not, and how they’re really doing emotionally. It’s an ongoing relationship. We reassess at least every six months.”

Other essential services include:

• Respite Care Funding:
  Del Oro helps caregivers take a break by covering the cost of:
  • In-home care
  • Adult day care
  • Short-term assisted living stays
• Counseling Services:
  For caregivers facing depression, anxiety, or burnout, they offer short-term one-on-one counseling with licensed clinicians.
• Education & Training:
  Workshops are offered online and in person to help caregivers learn practical skills and self-care strategies.
• Legal & Medical Information:
  Caregivers can get assistance reviewing paperwork or finding resources to help navigate the medical side of caregiving.
• Information & Referral Services:
  For any caregiver—or even professionals—needing help connecting with the right services.

Heather: “Wow. That’s a lot—and it’s all incredibly helpful.”

Is There a Cost?

Heather: “Do you charge for these services?”

Michelle: “No. All of our services are completely free. People are usually shocked by that! We’re funded through a mix of state, federal, county, and private grants—as well as donations and fundraising. Anyone who wants to donate is welcome to, but it’s never required.”

How to Get Help

Heather: “What’s the best way for someone to get started with Del Oro?”

Michelle: “Just call us! We’re available Monday–Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Our team will gather some basic information and schedule an appointment—right now, we’re about three weeks out for new clients.

We also have a secure online portal called CareNav where people can submit info anytime, 24/7. Whether you prefer a phone call or online connection, we’ll follow up to get things moving.”

Heather: “That’s fantastic. Caregivers are already overwhelmed—it’s important to make it easy.”

Michelle: “Exactly. We’re still answering the phones. We’re here to serve.”

A Final Word of Encouragement

Heather: “Michelle, thank you so much for being here early this morning and for everything Del Oro does. We’re so blessed to have your organization in our community.”

Michelle: “It’s truly our honor. And thank you, Heather—for everything you do to support families, too.”

💬 Need Caregiving Support?

If you’re caring for a loved one and feel overwhelmed, Del Oro Caregiver Resource Center can help—with free services, counseling, training, and guidance to support you.

📞 Call Monday–Friday at (916) 728-9333
🌐 Visit: www.deloro.org
📥 Or use their secure online portal: CareNav

And if you need help getting your legal house in order, contact Chubb Law Firm, PC at 916-241-9661 to schedule a Discovery Meeting.

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