Rachel Watkins-Petersen is the Assistant Director of Respite Care Association of Wisconsin (RCAW), where she leads program development, partnerships, and initiatives that support family caregivers across the state.
With nearly two decades of experience in care services, Rachel’s work has spanned both children and older adults, giving her a practical understanding of care needs across different stages of life. She began her career in early childhood education after earning her bachelor’s degrees in Early Childhood Education and Spanish from Northern Michigan University, later transitioning into leadership roles in residential care settings where she oversaw operations, staff, and programming.
Rachel’s work is grounded in direct experience with caregivers and the realities they face. She has led support groups, helped families navigate respite options, and continues to advocate for more accessible, sustainable caregiver support systems. Since joining RCAW in 2019, she has contributed to state and national initiatives focused on expanding respite access, strengthening provider networks, and elevating caregiver voices in policy and community conversations.
She completed the Nursing Home Administrator program through UW–Madison and remains actively involved in efforts related to aging, dementia care, and workforce development.