Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
Featured Stories
Toy Association Advocacy Helps Secure FCC Exemption for Toy Drones
NEW YORK, June 17 [Category: Business] -- The Toy Association posted the following news:
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Toy Association Advocacy Helps Secure FCC Exemption for Toy Drones
Following months of industry advocacy, The Toy Association(tm) is pleased to share a significant policy victory for companies that manufacture or import toy drones and remote-control flying toys.
On June 16, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that qualifying toy drones will be removed from restrictions tied to the agency's Covered List policies, allowing new models of certain foreign-made toy drones to continue
... Show Full Article
NEW YORK, June 17 [Category: Business] -- The Toy Association posted the following news:
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Toy Association Advocacy Helps Secure FCC Exemption for Toy Drones
Following months of industry advocacy, The Toy Association(tm) is pleased to share a significant policy victory for companies that manufacture or import toy drones and remote-control flying toys.
On June 16, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that qualifying toy drones will be removed from restrictions tied to the agency's Covered List policies, allowing new models of certain foreign-made toy drones to continueentering the U.S. market. The announcement amends an earlier FCC rule change which was overly broad in scope and, while aimed to address national security risks tied to advanced drones, also blocked certification for children's toy drones and RC flying products that did not pose the same risks.
This decision follows months of Toy Association and member company advocacy with the FCC, Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of War. Most recently, the issue was raised by The Toy Association and its members during meetings with lawmakers and staff as part of the Association's annual Washington, DC Fly-In held on Capitol Hill last week.
Toy Association advocacy emphasized the following key points:
* Toys are simple, short-range play products designed for children, and do not present the same national security concerns as more advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).
* Importantly, the distinction was made between consumer toy products designed for recreation (i.e., toys are lightweight, low-power, and designed to be limited in performance for safe use, with short control ranges, no GPS/lack of connectivity, etc.) and sophisticated drone technologies intended for commercial, industrial, or surveillance applications.
* The Toy Association also highlighted the fact that children's toys are already subject to strict and comprehensive federal safety regulations (including ASTM F963 and other requirements) and must be evaluated and certified compliant with these regulations before entering the U.S. market.
Accordingly, the FCC change cites a Department of War determination that "unsophisticated, low-risk toys" do not pose the same national security concerns as more advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).
"We are grateful for the FCC's latest action, which provides important clarity for our members and preserves market access for a category of toys that do not present national security and other risks related to the drone technologies at issue," said Kathrin Belliveau, chief policy officer at The Toy Association. "This outcome reflects TA advocacy across multiple federal agencies and policymakers to ensure toy drones were evaluated based on their actual capabilities and risk profile. We are pleased to have played a role in helping our members continue to innovate and successfully bring these fun and popular toys to market."
The Toy Association will continue monitoring implementation of the policy and any future developments related to drone and connected product regulations. For additional questions, members may reach out to Joan Lawrence, senior vice president, standards and regulatory affairs.
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Original text here: https://www.toyassociation.org//PressRoom2/News/2026-News/toy-association-advocacy-helps-secure-fcc-exemption-for-toy-drones.aspx
S&P Global Energy Study Reinforces Importance of Expanding Year-Round E15 Access
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa, June 17 [Category: Energy] -- The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association posted the following news release:
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S&P Global Energy Study Reinforces Importance of Expanding Year-Round E15 Access
WEST DES MOINES, IA - As agricultural productivity continues to climb, a new study from S&P Global Energy finds that future agricultural growth could be constrained by lack of demand rather than a lack of production. Commissioned by U.S. Farmers and Ranchers in Action (USFRA), the findings highlight the importance of expanding consumer access to E15, one of the most immediate opportunities
... Show Full Article
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa, June 17 [Category: Energy] -- The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association posted the following news release:
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S&P Global Energy Study Reinforces Importance of Expanding Year-Round E15 Access
WEST DES MOINES, IA - As agricultural productivity continues to climb, a new study from S&P Global Energy finds that future agricultural growth could be constrained by lack of demand rather than a lack of production. Commissioned by U.S. Farmers and Ranchers in Action (USFRA), the findings highlight the importance of expanding consumer access to E15, one of the most immediate opportunitiesto create additional demand for Iowa-grown corn.
"This study should be a wake-up call to the naysayers because agricultural productivity isn't going to slow down - not in Iowa, not in the United States, and not around the world," stated Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Director Monte Shaw. "For farmers the challenge isn't producing enough grain, it's ensuring there are strong, reliable markets growing along with their productivity. This study makes it clear that expanded access to E15 provides one of the most practical and immediate opportunities to create demand for farmers, while also offering consumers a lower-cost fuel option."
The study explains that future agricultural expansion increasingly depends on new demand opportunities capable of absorbing rising production. Ethanol markets are required for maintaining value and substantiating long-term economic growth. With millions of vehicles approved to use E15 today, expanding year-round access offers an existing, scalable solution that benefits consumers and Iowa agriculture. Details of the study can be found at: www.fuelingagriculture.com
"The findings reinforce the need for action in the U.S. Senate to unlock E15," stated Shaw. "The last twenty years have taught Iowa farmers and renewable fuel producers that strong domestic biofuel markets are essential to maintaining a healthy agricultural economy. Expanding access to E15 not only supports corn demand today but also helps ensure that agriculture's productivity translates into economic opportunity, not stagnation."
The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association represents the state's liquid renewable fuels industry and works to foster its growth. Iowa is the nation's leader in renewable fuels production with 42 ethanol refineries capable of producing over 5 billion gallons annually - including 34 million gallons of annual cellulosic ethanol production capacity - and 8 biodiesel facilities with the capacity to produce 408 million gallons annually. For more information, visit the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association website at: www.IowaRFA.org.
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Original text here: https://iowarfa.org/2026/06/sp-global-energy-study-reinforces-importance-of-expanding-year-round-e15-access/
Report Touts Importance of 'Religious Liberty for All' at America 250
WASHINGTON, June 17 (TNSrep) -- The American Humanist Association posted the following news release:
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New Report Touts Importance of "Religious Liberty for All" at America 250
Diverse advocates' defense of religious freedom counters Trump's discriminator "Religious Liberty Commission"
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The Center for American Progress, Americans United for Separation of Church and State, Interfaith Alliance, and the American Humanist Association today launched "Religious Liberty for All: Celebrating This Founding Freedom at America 250," a new report featuring 20 prominent voices, including elected officials
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, June 17 (TNSrep) -- The American Humanist Association posted the following news release:
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New Report Touts Importance of "Religious Liberty for All" at America 250
Diverse advocates' defense of religious freedom counters Trump's discriminator "Religious Liberty Commission"
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The Center for American Progress, Americans United for Separation of Church and State, Interfaith Alliance, and the American Humanist Association today launched "Religious Liberty for All: Celebrating This Founding Freedom at America 250," a new report featuring 20 prominent voices, including elected officialsand faith leaders, on what religious liberty means in their lives and for the nation.
The report (https://www.americanprogress.org/article/religious-liberty-for-all-celebrating-this-founding-freedom-at-america-250/) makes the case for a vision of religious liberty rooted in dignity and the Constitution. It serves as a powerful alternative to the anticipated upcoming report from the Trump administration's so-called "Religious Liberty Commission," which has elevated a very narrow ideological perspective, perpetuated Christian Nationalist doctrines, and sought to weaken the separation of church and state.
The "Religious Liberty for All" report makes clear: "Religious liberty belongs to all people, not to any single tradition, party, or administration...As America reaches its semiquincentennial, these perspectives affirm that America's strength lies in protecting the freedom of belief and nonbelief and ensuring that religious liberty is not misused to decide who belongs, whose rights are protected, and who has power."
"Humanists have always understood something that gets lost in the current debate: religious liberty isn't a prize to be won by the most powerful," said Fish Stark, Executive Director of the American Humanist Association. "It's a foundation that only holds if it holds for everyone. That principle isn't new, and it isn't controversial. It's why we're proud to stand alongside this coalition in defending it."
Elected officials contributing to the report include Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) and Representatives Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ), Jared Huffman (D-CA), and Jamie Raskin, (D-MD). Faith leaders include Rabbi David Saperstein (Union for Reform Judaism), Sunita Viswanath (Hindus for Human Rights), Rev. Terri Hord Owens (Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)), Dr. Homayra Ziad (American Islamic College), Rev. Carlos L. Malave (Latino Christian National Network), and many more.
To mark the report launch, the organizers are holding an event at the Center for American Progress in Washington, DC on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, from 2:00 p.m.-3:15 p.m. ET. The event features keynotes remarks by Senator Coons, introductory remarks by CAP's president and CEO Neera Tanden, and multiple panel discussions with experts on religious freedom.
The Trump Administration's Religious Liberty Commission is expected to release its own report as early as the end of June--the publication has been repeatedly delayed as the commission faces ongoing litigation from diverse faith organizations including Interfaith Alliance, which allege illegal discrimination in the makeup and actions of the commission. In April, Democracy Forward and Americans United for Separation of Church and State filed a motion to pause the release of the report, on behalf of the Interfaith Alliance, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, and Hindus for Human Rights.
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The American Humanist Association (AHA) works to protect the rights of humanists, atheists, and other nontheistic Americans. The AHA advances the ethical and life-affirming worldview of humanism, which--without beliefs in gods or other supernatural forces--encourages individuals to live informed and meaningful lives that aspire to the greater good of humanity.
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Original text here: https://americanhumanist.org/featured/new-report-touts-importance-of-religious-liberty-for-all-at-america-250/
[Category: Sociological]
NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun Says Home Sales Expected to Improve in Second Half of 2026
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The National Association of Realtors issued the following news release:
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NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun Says Home Sales Expected to Improve in Second Half of 2026
Yun projects homeowners will gain $16,000 in housing wealth this year and predicts the national median home price will reach $1 million within 25 years
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Home sales are expected to be modestly better in the second half of 2026, provided that inventory and housing supply continue to expand, National Association of REALTORS(R) Chief Economist Dr. Lawrence Yun said during the Residential Economic Issues
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The National Association of Realtors issued the following news release:
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NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun Says Home Sales Expected to Improve in Second Half of 2026
Yun projects homeowners will gain $16,000 in housing wealth this year and predicts the national median home price will reach $1 million within 25 years
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Home sales are expected to be modestly better in the second half of 2026, provided that inventory and housing supply continue to expand, National Association of REALTORS(R) Chief Economist Dr. Lawrence Yun said during the Residential Economic Issuesand Trends Forum at the 2026 REALTORS(R) Legislative Meetings.
NAR's current forecast calls for existing-home sales to rise 4% this year, with the median home price also climbing 4%. Mortgage rates are projected to average 6.5% in 2026. Yun added that housing wealth accumulation will continue in 2026, with the typical homeowner gaining approximately $16,000 in wealth this year.
"Homeowners will continue to build wealth, while renters are simply spinning their wheels," Yun said.
Despite headwinds in the housing market, Yun said the U.S. economy will avoid a recession in 2026, pointing to strong business investment in artificial intelligence and data centers. The unemployment rate is expected to remain under 5%, and job gains are projected to reach 400,000 this year.
Yun also offered a long-term projection, running multiple scenarios to estimate when the national median home price--currently $430,000--would reach $1 million. Each scenario pointed to roughly the same answer: about 25 years.
To illustrate the power of long-term appreciation, Yun noted that the national median home price was just $90,000 in 1990. Even San Francisco, considered super expensive at the time, had a median price of only $250,000.
Also speaking at the forum, Dr. Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist and vice president of research, focused on who is actually buying homes right now despite the challenging market. Lautz said the housing market may feel like it's in gridlock, but that is not a universal experience--distinct buyer segments are actively purchasing, whether driven by necessity, determination or housing equity.
"I've been traveling around the nation this year, and I am hearing a lot from you that it's a really wonky market," Lautz told the audience. "You'll list a home on the market, and sometimes it'll sit for months. And sometimes it's going to have multiple offers, and they can be next door to each other."
Lautz walked through a series of buyer profiles backed by NAR research data, identifying opportunities for REALTORS(R) to recognize and reach potential clients they may be overlooking.
"We talk incessantly about first-time homebuyers. What about first-time sellers?" Lautz said, noting that 17% of younger baby boomers who sold this year had never sold a property before.
Lautz also addressed persistent myths holding back potential buyers.
"Misinformation is out there," Lautz said, noting that many potential buyers still believe they need a 20% down payment. "The typical down payment for first-time homebuyers was just 10% last year."
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About the National Association of REALTORS(R)
The National Association of REALTORS(R) is involved in all aspects of residential and commercial real estate. The term REALTOR(R) is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS(R) and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. For free consumer guides about navigating the homebuying and selling transaction processes--from written buyer agreements to negotiating compensation--visit facts.realtor.
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Original text here: https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/nar-chief-economist-lawrence-yun-says-home-sales-expected-to-improve-in-second-half-of-2026
[Category: Real Estate]
ELFA Names Kelli Nienaber Senior Vice President of Industry Advancement Launches New Division Connecting Research, Education, and Volunteer Engagement
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association issued the following news release:
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ELFA Names Kelli Nienaber Senior Vice President of Industry Advancement Launches New Division Connecting Research, Education, and Volunteer Engagement
The Equipment Leasing & Finance Association (ELFA) today announced that Kelli Nienaber has been named Senior Vice President of Industry Advancement. Nienaber will also continue serving as Executive Director of the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation.
The newly established Industry Advancement division brings together ELFA's research,
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association issued the following news release:
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ELFA Names Kelli Nienaber Senior Vice President of Industry Advancement Launches New Division Connecting Research, Education, and Volunteer Engagement
The Equipment Leasing & Finance Association (ELFA) today announced that Kelli Nienaber has been named Senior Vice President of Industry Advancement. Nienaber will also continue serving as Executive Director of the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation.
The newly established Industry Advancement division brings together ELFA's research,education, and professional communities alongside the Foundation's workforce development initiatives - connecting the knowledge that informs the industry with the people who will lead it forward.
"There is tremendous momentum in the equipment finance industry, and ELFA is aligning our work to help our members stay ahead of it," said Leigh Lytle, President & CEO of ELFA and President of the Foundation. "Under Kelli's leadership, this new division will strengthen the connection between research, education, volunteer engagement, and the Foundation's workforce programs. This alignment will ensure our members have the resources and talent they need to succeed, ultimately elevating our entire industry while reinforcing equipment finance as a driving force for the broader American economy."
In this expanded role, Nienaber will oversee ELFA's research agenda - including major surveys, economic outlooks, industry indicators, and analysis that equip members with timely insights for informed business decisions, as well as the association's education programs to deliver content. She will work closely with volunteer leaders at the committee and board levels to reinforce ELFA as a premier forum for collaboration and shared expertise. As Executive Director of the Foundation, she will continue to partner with the Board of Trustees to lead initiatives focused on attracting the future workforce, including student scholarships, internship and recruiting resources, and university partnerships.
"This portfolio reflects where the equipment finance industry is headed and how ELFA can best support its continued growth," said Nienaber. "With a unified strategy across our research, education, volunteer communities, and workforce programs, we can better demonstrate the strength of this industry, expand awareness of what ELFA offers, and give our members the support they need to grow, lead, and compete."
Nienaber brings broad experience across ELFA, having served in leadership roles spanning government relations, membership, the Foundation, and industry research since joining the organization in 2006. As a member of ELFA's executive leadership team, she will help shape the association's future direction by ensuring that industry intelligence, member engagement, and talent strategy work in concert to advance the equipment finance sector.
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About ELFA
The Equipment Leasing & Finance Association represents financial services companies and manufacturers in the $1.3 trillion U.S. equipment finance sector. ELFA's over 600 member companies provide essential financing that helps businesses acquire the equipment they need to operate and grow. Learn how equipment finance contributes to businesses' success, U.S. economic growth, manufacturing and jobs at www.elfaonline.org.
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About the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation
Founded in 1989, the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation is the equipment finance industry's definitive resource for workforce development. Through talent development, thought leadership, and workforce evolution, the Foundation strengthens the industry and the professionals who power it - connecting organizations, educators, and emerging professionals to build the talent pipeline of tomorrow. The Foundation is 100% donor funded. www.leasefoundation.org
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Original text here: https://www.elfaonline.org/newsroom/elfa-names-kelli-nienaber-senior-vice-president-of-industry-advancement
[Category: Facilities Management]
CompTIA Launches AI Fundamentals Course to Prepare Students for the AI Workforce
DOWNERS GROVE, Illinois, June 17 -- CompTIA posted the following news release:
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CompTIA launches AI Fundamentals course to prepare students for the AI workforce
Helps academic institutions equip students with AI literacy and practical, job-ready talents
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CompTIA, the leading global provider of vendor-neutral IT training and certifications, has introduced a new artificial intelligence (AI) curriculum to help academic institutions prepare students for an AI-driven workforce.
CompTIA AI Fundamentals is a hands-on course that enables educators to teach students how to understand and apply
... Show Full Article
DOWNERS GROVE, Illinois, June 17 -- CompTIA posted the following news release:
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CompTIA launches AI Fundamentals course to prepare students for the AI workforce
Helps academic institutions equip students with AI literacy and practical, job-ready talents
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CompTIA, the leading global provider of vendor-neutral IT training and certifications, has introduced a new artificial intelligence (AI) curriculum to help academic institutions prepare students for an AI-driven workforce.
CompTIA AI Fundamentals is a hands-on course that enables educators to teach students how to understand and applyAI safely, effectively and responsibly. The course builds the foundational AI literacy and practical skills needed for today's academic programs and entry-level careers--regardless of major.
"As AI transforms industries and education, mastering core AI competencies ensures young people are academically prepared and career-ready," said Katie Hoenicke, chief product officer at CompTIA. "Skills such as prompt design, understanding AI's limitations, ethical use and human-AI collaboration position students for success in the classroom and workforce."
CompTIA AI Fundamentals combines high-quality instruction with applied, scenario-based learning delivered through proprietary AI simulations and labs. The course integrates hands-on projects that reinforce ethical and responsible AI use, including academic integrity, transparency and human accountability.
"AI fluency is becoming a baseline skill, not just for technical majors but for every graduate entering the workforce," said Henry Mann, senior director of product development at CompTIA. "AI Fundamentals gives students hands-on practice in a safe environment and a credential that shows they can actually apply these skills, not just talk about them."
CompTIA AI Fundamentals offers a structured, academically aligned pathway to building practical AI literacy. It addresses the rising demand for AI literacy by helping students across disciplines build a shared understanding of AI concepts, responsible use and real-world applications. Delivered as a structured, institution-ready, three-credit course, it is designed for broad accessibility--requiring no deep technical expertise. Its vendor-neutral approach ensures the course content remains relevant as AI tools evolve, making it applicable across industries and career paths.
A built-in assessment following course completion validates real-world AI proficiency. Students who pass the assessment earn the AI Fundamentals CompCert credential--offering tangible proof of their skills beyond a transcript. For institutions, the credential provides independent confirmation that learners have developed practical, workforce-ready AI capabilities.
Learn more about the CompTIA AI Fundamentals at https://www.comptia.org/en-us/certifications/ai-fundamentals/.
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About CompTIA
CompTIA, Inc. is the leading global provider of vendor-neutral training and certification products in the information technology (IT) space. Over four million CompTIA certifications have been awarded to current and aspiring technology workers, business professionals, government and military personnel, career changers, students and others. Working in partnership with thousands of academic institutions, governments, training providers and workforce development organizations, CompTIA uses best-in-class learning solutions, industry-recognized certifications and career resources to help job seekers reach their full potential and employers develop skilled technical talent. Learn more at https://www.comptia.org/.
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Original text here: https://www.comptia.org/en-us/about-us/news/press-releases/CompTIA-launches-AI-Fundamentals-course-to-prepare-students-for-the-AI-workforce/
[Category: Computer Technology]
AARP Research Reveals $900 Billion "Grandparent Economy" Powering American Families
WASHINGTON, June 17 (TNSrep) -- AARP issued the following news release:
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New AARP Research Reveals $900 Billion "Grandparent Economy" Powering American Families
Billions of dollars in unpaid care and financial support help families navigate rising costs and stay in workforce - while strengthening intergenerational family ties.
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New research from AARP finds that on average grandparents provide more than 500 hours of care and $2,654 in direct financial support annually for their grandchildren, often helping cover everything from basic needs to education and childcare. The study highlights
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, June 17 (TNSrep) -- AARP issued the following news release:
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New AARP Research Reveals $900 Billion "Grandparent Economy" Powering American Families
Billions of dollars in unpaid care and financial support help families navigate rising costs and stay in workforce - while strengthening intergenerational family ties.
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New research from AARP finds that on average grandparents provide more than 500 hours of care and $2,654 in direct financial support annually for their grandchildren, often helping cover everything from basic needs to education and childcare. The study highlightshow families rely on grandparents to help navigate rising childcare costs and gaps in formal systems.
"America runs on grandparents. Grandparents are one of the most important - and often overlooked - sources of support for American families," said Dr. Debra Whitman, AARP EVP and Chief Public Policy Officer. "Through both unpaid caregiving and direct financial assistance, they help parents stay in the workforce, make ends meet, and navigate rising childcare costs. Their contributions strengthen family finances, intergenerational connection, and provide critical support to the broader economy."
Findings from the study (https://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/research/topics/social-leisure/relationships/essential-role-of-grandparents.doi.10.26419-2fres.00986.001.pdf) include:
* Grandparents currently contribute over $172 billion in direct financial support to grandchildren each year. They also provide an estimated $731 billion in unpaid care of grandchildren.
* 7 in 10 (69%) of grandparents provide care, averaging more than 500 hours annually.
* 9 in 10 grandparents (90%) provide financial support for grandkids. On average, grandparents report spending $2,654 per year on all grandchildren combined, which is more than the average monthly retiree social security benefit of $2,071.
Beyond the financial impact, the role is also deeply meaningful, as 4 in 5 grandparents (79%) surveyed say the experience is extremely or very fulfilling.
The contributions of grandparents help parents remain in the workforce, manage household costs, and maintain financial stability in an increasingly expensive and complex care landscape.
The study, "Powering Families: The Essential Role of Grandparents in Care, Connection and Support," is based on a nationally representative survey of more than 3,300 U.S. grandparents age 35 and older, conducted in late 2025, along with qualitative interviews to capture lived experiences. Learn more at AARP.org/GrandparentingStudy.
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About AARP:
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the 125 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health and financial security, and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation's largest-circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit aarp.org, aarp.org/espanol or follow @AARP, @AARPLatino and @AARPadvocates on social media.
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Original text here: https://www.aarp.org/press/releases/2026-06-15-grandparents-study/
[Category: Sociological]
