Scaling for Growth

In 2012, following the retirement of Suzanne Mintz, a new CEO was recruited to take CAN to the next level of success. Known in DC healthcare policy circles for his deep advocacy expertise, John Schall took the reins, ushering in a comprehensive rebranding effort and enhancing communications and education initiatives. A highly effective and inclusive leader, Schall expanded the team, scaling resources and services for caregivers.

In late 2022, following a decade of numerous achievements in advocacy, education, relationship management, and fund development, Schall announced his retirement. Sadly, in 2022, he succumbed to a recurring illness and passed away, leaving a tremendous and distinguished legacy of having heightened CAN’s national visibility and impact.

The following initiatives were championed by Schall and his team over the course of a decade.

A Rebrand and Expansion

During John Schall’s first year as CEO, he and his team launched a comprehensive organizational rebranding to better align with family caregiver engagement, and “Caregiver Action Network” was born. In addition, CAN expanded its digital assets, most significantly rolling out a robust website that today offers an expansive array of family caregiver resources, including a library of educational videos, webinars, and checklists; a forum where caregivers across the country can turn to one another for support and advice; and tailored guidance for Caring by Condition . CAN later added specialty caregiver websites www. helpforcancercaregivers.org and www. rarecaregivers.org to address the unique needs of caregiving in the rare disease space.