5.1: Exploring Your Powerhouse® Delivery Format

Powerhouse® is delivered in more than one format. Each is a complete way to support young caregivers. What differs is the commitment involved for your organization and for the young people taking part.

The Formats

Virtual Support Group
An ongoing group that young caregivers join online. Sessions run to a maximum of 1.5 hours. This format has the lowest setup requirements and can run at any point in the year, which makes it a common starting point for organizations building toward a full program.

Virtual Powerhouse® Program
The structured Powerhouse® curriculum delivered online across multiple weeks. This involves registration, intake, and coordination alongside session delivery.

In-Person Powerhouse® Program
The structured Powerhouse® curriculum delivered in a physical space across multiple weeks. This is the highest-commitment format. It requires a suitable venue, two facilitators at every session, materials, setup and takedown, and more preparation time between sessions.

Start Where Your Organization Can Support
Your organization does not need to begin with the in-person program. A well-run virtual support group does more for young caregivers than an in-person program your organization cannot sustain.

Consider starting with a lower-commitment format, building experience and referral flow, and moving toward a fuller program as staffing, funding, and demand develop. This connects directly to the funding pathway explored in Lesson 4 — early delivery builds the local evidence that supports later investment.