How to Access Free Training
Starting a career as a caregiver opens the door to meaningful work and long‑term professional growth. To help caregivers build the skills they need, The Long-Term Care Foundation provides access to free, high‑quality training programs designed specifically for caregivers working in Adult Family Homes (AFHs). These programs give caregivers the knowledge, certifications, and hands‑on skills required to provide excellent care—while supporting a strong career path in the healthcare field.
Through the LTCF Training Network, caregivers who have worked at least 8 hours in an Adult Family Home can enroll in approved training programs at no cost, as long as the AFH has at least one Medicaid resident. Training is delivered by licensed and DSHS approved schools, and upon completion, caregivers receive a certificate verifying their new qualification. Tuition is fully covered by The Long-Term Care Foundation through funding from the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS).
Advance Your Career with Recognized Certifications
Earn industry‑recognized credentials—such as the Home Care Aide (HCA) or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) — that open the door to expanded job opportunities, higher earning potential, and long‑term growth in healthcare.
Train and Earn Certifications at No Cost
Tuition for approved training programs is paid entirely by The Long-Term Care Foundation Training Network, allowing caregivers to build essential skills without financial barriers.
Build Specialized Care Skills
Caregivers can expand their expertise with specialty trainings such as:
- Dementia Care
- Mental Health
- Nurse Delegation
- Nurse Delegation for Diabetes
- CPR / First Aid
These programs help caregivers provide skilled, compassionate care—and stand out to employers.
How Free Training Enrollment Works
- You begin working in an Adult Family Home.
- After completing 8 hours of work, your employer can register you for training.
- You are enrolled in a training course with an approved school by one of the LTCF staff members.
- You complete the required training hours.
- You receive a certificate upon successful completion.
- Tuition is paid directly to the school by the LTCF Training Network — you never receive a bill.
Trainings Available
Home Care Aide (HCA) Training (75 Hours)
This foundational training prepares new caregivers to work in long-term care settings. It covers essential caregiving skills such as personal care, safety, communication, and daily living support.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA / NAC) (108–125 Hours)
This program teaches advanced caregiving and clinical care skills. After completing the training and exam, caregivers earn the Certified Nursing Assistant credential.
HCA to CNA Bridge Program (38 Hours)
This accelerated course is designed for caregivers who already hold an active HCA license. It builds on existing knowledge and prepares participants to obtain CNA certification.
AFH Administrator Training (54 Hours)
This training prepares individuals who want to manage or operate an Adult Family Home. It covers regulations, resident care standards, and business responsibilities.
HCA Skills Test Refresher (4 Hours)
This short course helps caregivers prepare for the Home Care Aide skills exam. It reviews key caregiving tasks and practical techniques required during the test.
CNA Skills Test Refresher (12 Hours)
This refresher course prepares caregivers for the Certified Nursing Assistant skills exam. It focuses on practicing clinical procedures and improving confidence before testing.
Dementia Specialty Training (8 Hours)
This training focuses on caring for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Caregivers learn communication strategies and techniques to support residents with memory loss.
Mental Health Specialty Training (8 Hours)
This course helps caregivers support residents with mental health conditions. It covers communication, understanding behavioral challenges, and promoting emotional well-being.
Nurse Delegation (9 Hours)
This training allows caregivers to perform certain medical tasks delegated by a licensed nurse. It includes medication assistance and other supervised care activities.
Nurse Delegation for Diabetes (3 Hours)
This specialized course focuses on diabetes care under nurse delegation. Caregivers learn how to assist with blood glucose monitoring and diabetes-related support.
CPR / First Aid (3 Hours)
This training teaches caregivers how to respond to medical emergencies. Participants learn CPR techniques and basic first aid skills to help protect resident safety.
Enroll in Free Caregiver Training
Ready to grow your skills and advance your caregiving career? The Long Term Care Foundation Training Network provides free professional training programs for caregivers working in Adult Family Homes.
If you are already working as a caregiver, reach out to your AFH manager and ask them to register you for the free training through the LTCF Training Network.
If you are an Adult Family Home manager, you can register your caregivers for free training directly through the program.
Ready to Start Your Caregiving Journey?
Join a growing community of compassionate caregivers supporting seniors in Adult Family Homes across Washington. The LTCF Caregiver Network makes it simple to begin — offering AI‑assisted resume creation, guided steps, and matched job opportunities that help you quickly build a professional profile and apply to positions, even if you’re brand new to caregiving.
