River Forest Township

Senior News

April 2024

Hi Everyone!


Happy Spring. Here is your River Forest Township News for April, including our programming with River Forest Public Library (yellow section) and other programming and information (blue section) you may be interested in.


We lost our friend and fellow River Forest Resident, Debbie Frederick this month. She was on the Village of River Forest Age Friendly Commission and had been a regular participant of the tight knit River Forest Mahjong Group over the past year. She will be greatly missed.


As I have mentioned in the past, we are starting a HomeSharing Program in River Forest. If you are still living in your own home and want to learn about a program that may be beneficial to you and your well being please reach out to me. Find out how sharing your home with another adult can benefit both of you in many ways. I am happy to answer any questions you may have about the program. You can also learn more about HomeSharing by looking over the green section just before the River Forest Township/Library programming. (below)


  • North West Housing Partnership, our partner for the Home Repair and CAPABLE/ OAHMP programs, is able to help older adults age in place longer. See article here. (for older adults of all income levels) See attached flyers below too.


  • River Forest Township is seeking a new Township Clerk. This is a part-time position. Click here for details.


  • SHIP (Senior Health Insurance Program) Counselors will start coming to the River Forest Community Center/ Township Office starting April 12 (Friday) and again on May 17 (Friday) between 10:00 am – 2:00pm. They will schedule up to 4 appointments per day in person. They will still take appointments over the phone as well. Please call 708-383-8060 to set up an apt. Learn more about SHIP here.


  • The deadline for filing for the Senior Freeze is April 5. Call the Oak Park Assessor's office to learn more at 708-383-8005 (Oak Park Assessor information here.) or go the River Forest Township Assessors page for Appeal and Exemption information for cook county here.


  • Healthy Aging Workshop through Township Senior Services for women of color begins May 7 through June 13. Learn more here.


  • Green4Good and the Village of River Forest will host a foam collection event on Saturday, April 20 from 9-12 in the West Thatcher Metra Commuter Lot. [Village of Oak Park will have a Foam and paper shredding event at the same time at the Public Works Dept. See more here.]


  • The Senior Citizens Center of Oak Park and River Forest and Park District of Oak Park's Active Adult Program honor Older Adults who have contributed to the community with their  Ulyssean Awards.  If you want to submit a name or want more information, please reach out to the Senior Citizens' Center at 708.725.2716 or sccoprf@sbcglobal.net 


[Note: The Celebrating Seniors Coalition will not have a Celebrating Senior Week this May]


If you are not a River Forest resident and prefer to only receive the Community Connect Email that comes out twice a month (for residents in Oak Park, River Forest, Austin and surrounding communities) please let me know that as well.


Continue to share information with me and call or email with any questions or concerns.


[Because this email is lengthy you may see a message on the bottom left hand corner of this email that says "Message Clipped" and you will need to click "view" entire message, to view the full email. ]



Reminders:

River Forest Park District Opportunities: Look at pages 9-14 on River Forest Park Districts Fun Guide for Wellness Programs for Adults, including Susan Schwarting's Meditation and Drumming Classes (p. 13) here. Also go to page 33 if you are interested in learning how to play bridge with Mary Schultz. (new programming starting in April). Pickleball: See Class information here. (new classes will be at Washington Park, including beginner classes)


Mahjong continues at the River Forest Community Center on Thursdays from 1:00 pm- 3:00 pm. Come join us whether you are new to the game or an experienced player.



Do you need help filing your Taxes?

See the Oak Park Township list of resources (for all communities) here. RSVP Tax Assistance here. Call the Howard Mohr Center and ask for Brenda Powers at 708-771-7737 to see if they have any spots with AARP available. Also look into the LadderUp program here.


Migrant Assistance:

Community of Congregations Migrant Response information here.


Migrant Ministry is currently at St. Edmund's School/Shelter. Donations are accepted on Mondays from 9am- Noon at the Pleasant Street door at St. Edmund School (200 S. Oak Park Ave.)  Please look at their  Amazon Wishlist so you know what the current needs are. You do not need to get from the list, but this shows you what the needs are: Consider donating: Casual shoes in small mens & womens sizes, and all children's sizes, Large, warm blankets, Towels, Roller bags (used is fine, but with all wheels and zippers working). travel size Toiletries are always needed as well as small and medium sized leggins and underwear.


If you want to provide an item for breakfast or donate money towards breakfast, click here. To sign up to volunteer on Tuesday or Thursday morning to help serve breakfast, distribute donations etc. at St. Edmunds Church, sign up here.


For temporary job opportunities or to find out other ways you can help, reach out to immigrantministry@gmail.com. (There is always a need for Volunteers who can speak Spanish, as well as help with housing information and jobs.) [Donations: information here.]


For those of you that are able to help with housing, jobs and more, go to the Migrant Resettlement Mission's webpage here.


Other Groups Helping Migrants in the area:

Activate Oak Park  Oak Park Supports/Apoyo



Reminders regarding format of this email:

  • Township events with the River Forest Public Library are in the yellow section, followed by other events taking place in February as well as ongoing events and websites of interest. Look over the other Sections for updates too: Township Senior Services information, followed by Grief/Support Groups (Pink Section), Volunteer Opportunities (Purple Section) and Exercise and other Class Offerings (Green Section)


Digital Assistance:

If you need help with your computer or device reach out to your local library, Senior Planet (888) 713-3495 or the township. Dole Center (3rd floor) from 9:30 am- 11:00 am drop in time; minimal charge if not a member. Call the Township to learn about Uniper's online classes. Click here to learn more or email Age Options at information@ageoptions.org.


Senior Tech Support is offering Virtual Tech Classes: April 15: "Switching from Cable to Streaming." Learn more here and April 29:"Cutting the Cord" here.

River Forest HomeSharing Pilot:

River Forest Township Homesharing Program (Pilot):

Are you a River Forest Resident" Do you have an extra room in your home? Are you looking for ways to reduce housing costs? Do you want to help someone who wants to live in the community, but possibly cannot afford the market rate rent for a one bedroom apartment? Could you benefit from the companionship of another adult, the extra money and possibly some help with small chores? Or, are you looking for a more affordable housing option? We will help you find that ideal match, provide screening and background checks and will be available for ongoing support. Any River Forest homeowner over 60 or anyone who is interested in exploring this opportunity or who has questions, please reach out to me at the Township office at 708-366-2029 x 13 or bkelly.rftownship@gmail.com. See flyer here.


Learn more about HomeSharing:

See the Homesharing Segment, "Boomates" from PBS Newshour here.

The Today Show highlights Multigenerational Household Arrangements here.  Listen to the Think Out Loud Podcast with HomeShare Oregon here.

See AARP International's Case Study here.

Generations United: Reimagining Intergenerational Housing here.

Craft and Chat at

River Forest Public Library

Mahjong at River Forest Community

Center on Thursdays from

1pm- 3pm.

River Forest Township Programming

with River Forest Public Library



Programming is in person in the Barbara Hall Meeting Room, unless otherwise noted. (register only for special events and yoga )

See Calendar here.


April 1 from 10:00 am- 11:00 am: River Forest Township and River Forest Library present Coffee Monday with Jeanette Guzman from Victory Center of Galewood. Come to the River Forest Library to learn about Supportive living for older adults and persons with physical disabilities. Learn more about supportive living here.


April 7 from 2:00 pm- 3:30 pm: Arabiqa: An Introduction to Arab Music, Dance and Culture. Celebrate Arab American Heritage Month with this special family-oriented presentation by Egyptian-American musician, teacher, and speaker Karim Nagi


April 13 from 2:00 pm- 3:00 pm: All Levels Yoga. Register here.


April 14 from 2:00 pm- 3:30 pm: Pastries and Poetry from Around the World.


April 19 from 1:00 pm- 3:30 pm: Film Lover Fridays presents Great Expectations.



Note: Memory Cafe is no longer a program with the Libraries, but it is still happening through the Township every 3rd Tuesday of the Month (see below in attachments).


Other Programming at the Library:

April 2 from 1:00 pm- 3:00 pm: Question, Persuade, Refer: Suicide Prevention Training. Thrive Counseling Center presents their lifesaving, evidence-based, suicide prevention/intervention training.


April 3 from 1:00 pm- 2:30 pm: Great Decisions: NATO's Future.

In each session, you will watch a recorded video lecture and then discuss the topic as a group. Readings for each session will be available at the library two weeks in advance.


April 17 from 1:00 pm- 2:30 pm: Great Decisions: Understanding Indonesia.. In each session, you will watch a recorded video lecture and then discuss the topic as a group. Readings for each session will be available at the library two weeks in advance.


April 25 from 7:00 pm- 8:00 pm: Adult Trivia Night.


April 28 from 2:00 pm- 4:30 pm: Global Film Forum: The Perfect Candidate.


Also don't forget you can borrow a "hotspot" from your local library, so you can get access to wifi when needed. (i.e. if you are traveling or don't have wifi at home this will give you access). Local Libraries have Book Clubs too. Call your library for more information.

Local Programs/Events (as well as some online events):


Oak Park/River Forest Township Senior Services has a lot of programming too. See their calendar online here. Note: for any of the programs, please call the Activity and Nutrition hotline at

(708) 725-9129 to check availability and to register.


See Dole Center/Active Adult information below (in green section) as well as Forest Park Mohr Center News/Trips in attachment below.


April 1 from 10:00 am- 11:00 am: River Forest Township and River Forest Library present Coffee Monday with Jeanette Guzman from Victory Center of Galewood. Come to the River Forest Library to learn about Supportive living for older adults and persons with physical disabilities. Learn more about supportive living here.


April 1 from 10:00 am- 11:15 am: Age Options presents their 2024 Legislative Breakfast at West Suburban Senior Services at 439 Bohland Ave, Bellwood, IL. No Cost; RSVP to Peter Byer at peter.byer@ageoptions.org


April 1 from 1:15pm- 2:15pm: The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association presents A Brief History of the Reintroduction of Native Americans to Illinois. Learn more here.


April 3 from 9:00 am- 10:00 am: Trailside Museum of Natural History presents Senior Fitness Walks: A one mile walk in the forest preserves at your own pace with a Master Naturalist. Meet at the Thatcher Woods Pavilion. Register at 708-366-6530.


April 4 from 2:00 pm- 4:00 pm: Arbor West Neighbors presents Expanding End-of-Life Options with Catherine Marienau and Terri Powell at the Oak Park Library in the Veterans Room. In this presentation you will learn more about Medical Aid in Dying and the importance of planning for the end of life, including those with terminal illness.If interested or you want to learn more send an email to registerAWNprogram@gmail.com. See flyer here.


April 5 from 8:30 am- 10:30 am: Virtual ASA Roundtable Meeting. Brief remarks from the new IL Director on Aging. Updates on the American Society on Aging's initiatives and a discussion about cannabis and use among older adults. Register here.


April 5 from 9:30 am- 11:00 am: Oak Park Public Library presents Older Adults Coffee Hour. Stop by for coffee and conversation. Please register in advance here.


April 5 from 11:00 am- 1:30 pm: Kehrein Center for the Arts presents Aging Well Together. Learn more here.


April 5 at 7:30 pm: Madison Street Theater presents Comedy Mirror: A Standup Show. Learn more here.


April 6 from 9:30 am -2:00 pm: Oak Park Area Association of Realtors host a Blood Drive at the Sheridan in River Forest

(800 N. Harlem) Register here.


April 6 from 10:00 am- 1:30 pm: Park District of Oak Park and Fox Center present Repair Cafe. For more information, click here.


April 6 at 2:00 pm: The Oak Park Society of Engineers invites you to celebrate their 60th Anniversary at Jim and Pete's Italian Restaurant in Elmwood Park (7806 W. North Ave.) $35/person. Invited guest speaker is John Pantos, Senior Customer Performance Engineer, Progress Rail/EMD Division of Caterpillar. For more details, call Lew Concklin at 708-717-1953. See flyer here.


April 7 from 9:30 am- 10:45 am: First United Church of Oak Park presents Environmental Stewardship/Environmental Justice: Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives in Oak Park and Surrounding Communities. (848 Lake St., Oak Park)


April 7 at 1:00 pm: 6 Week CourAGEus Conscious Aging Workshop Series Read more here. ($89)


April 8 from 1:30 pm- 4:30 pm: View the Solar Eclipse. For more information, click here. The Cernan Space Center will be hosting a partial eclipse viewing. Learn more here.



April 8: Oak Park River Forest Township Senior Services presents Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention. This is the first day of this program. Make sure you register in advance to secure your spot. Learn more here.


April 8 from 1:15 pm- 2:15 pm: The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association presents Monday Enrichment Series: Science: Mammalian Diversity in the Philippines. Learn more here.


April 9 from 10:00 am- 12:00 pm: The Community Mental Health Board hosts Walk and Talk at The Community Recreation Center in Oak Park (229 Madison St.) Join your neighbors for a healthy walk around the indoor track. Community Resources are available too. Open to all older adults. Reach out to Megan Ulczak if any questions at megan.ulczak@pdop.org.


April 9 at 1:30 pm: The Levy Center presents Every Day Improv with Sue Gillan. This will be a Zoom Event. Register here.


April 9 at 7:00 pm: Margaret Burk and the Forest Park Arts Association present Tellers Night. Come hear stories, have a drink and enjoy food from Smokey Joel's or bring your own food. Tickets are $15 on line or at the door. (doors open at 6:30 pm) See more here.


April 10 from 9:00 am- 3:30 pm: The National Center to Reframe Aging presents Summit 2024: The Movement to Reframe Aging. See schedule here and register here.


April 10 from 12:00 pm- 5:30 pm: University of Illinois Chicago presents their Urban Forum. Learn more and register here. Tickets are $25.


April 14 from 12:00 pm- 2:00 pm: The Village of Oak Park presents Holi Celebration on Village Hall's south lawn. Color play begins at 1:20 pm. Music and food for purchase. Learn more here.


April 15 from 12:00 pm- 2:00 pm: The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association presents their Scholarship Recipients. Meet the Nineteenth Century OPRF High Scholarship recipients.


April 16 at 7:00 pm: Moth StorySlam at Fitzgeralds: Register Early!!! Learn more here.


April 17 from 7:00 pm- 8:00 pm: Triton College Global Music Series: American Folk Music at the Triton College Performing Arts Center- R Building, Room 218. Award winning banjo and fiddle duo, Jonas Friddle and Anna Jacobson from Chicago 's Old Town School of Folk Music. (free)


April 19 at 7:30: Good Shepard Church presents Jazz Prayer Service (every 3rd Friday through May) For more information, click here.


April 20 from 8:00 am- 10:00 am: Earth Day Clean Up at DesPlaines River. Learn more here. Pre-registration is required.


April 21 from 11:00 am- 2:00 pm: The 8th Annual Community Health & Wellness Fair will be at the Community Recreation Center in Oak Park (229 Madison St., Oak Park)


April 22 from 1:15 pm- 2:15 pm: The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association presents their Monday Enrichment Series: Art: Georgia O'Keefe, An American Original. Learn more here.


April 23 at 10:00 am: AARP Equity by Design presents Vibrant Encores: Vacant Buildings Helping to Solve the Housing Crisis. This is a virtual event. Innovative adaptive reuse of unused and underused buildings is helping solve the affordable housing crisis and providing lifelong housing as people age. Drew Roskos from the Oak Park River Forest Senior Services Committee will be one of the speakers. Register here.


April 27 from 9:30- 2:30 pm: The Alzheimer's Association presents The 2nd Annual African American Conference: Release the Silence: RACE into Action. Learn more here.


April 27 from 6:30 pm- 9:00 pm: Madison Street Theater and Subtext Theater Company present their Spring Debut. This is a free event, but donations are accepted. Learn more here.


April 29 from 1:15 pm- 2:15 pm: The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association presents their Monday Enrichment Series: Literature: Blending Fiction with History: The Sinking of the S.S. Eastland. Learn more here.



Robert's Westside: Every 2nd Tuesday is Tellers Night and Every 3rd Tuesday is Soup and Bread and Every 4th Tuesday is Open Mike Night.



Websites for more Events: 

Trailside Museum of Natural History events here. 


Oak Park and River Forest Museum April Calendar: April 23: Labor History Presentation and April 27: Thatcher Woods Walking Tour Click here.


Hemingway Foundation Events: April 4: Hemingway and Chicago Baseball Revisited and April 26: Friday at Hemingways: Speaking for Earth: A Poetry Reading: Learn more here. Also, the Hemingway Shorts Competition is open until April 15. Learn more here.


See Dominican University Events here. (a lot of Events in April)


Triton College Events here.


The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association April Calendar of Events here. (also listed above)


Oak Park Library Calendar here.


Green Community Connection Calendar has a lot going on in April Click here to see One Earth Film viewings and Earth Day Events and always Repair Cafe.


Newberry Library Events here. (many online)


The Park District of Oak Park has Active Adult Programming open to all communities (see just below); The Mohr Center in Forest Park has programming (see their newsletter in attachments) and

Village of North Riverside has some nice trips too (some local and some bigger trips). Call 708-762-5214 if you want to get their newsletter.


Wednesday Journal Community Section: here.


Also, please note the libraries, Township and OPRF Museum all have book clubs.



ONGOING CALENDAR:

Every Monday: 

10:00 am- 10:50 am: Fitness Fellowship presents Gentle Yoga with Carol Olsen at Oak Park Arms (every Monday and Friday). Open to the community.


1:15 pm- 2:30 pm: Nineteenth Century Charitable Association presents their Monday Enrichment Series. For more information, click here. (note: all Monday Enrichment Programs are live-streamed if you can't make the event in person: Zoom link here.)


6:00 pm- 8:00 pm: The Oak Park Meditation Group meets in person at the Oak Park Public Library "Maze Branch on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month and on Zoom the other Mondays. It is open to all who want to learn and practice meditation together. Each session begins with a brief warm-up drawn from yoga or qigong, followed by meditation instruction, sitting and walking meditation, reading and discussion. Open to all. For more information, email OakParkMeditationGroup@gmail.com


Every Tuesday:

1:00 pm: Illinois Pathways to Health and the Mohr Center host Fit and Strong: Moving Towards a Healthier You. See flyer here. (at the Mohr Center: 7640 Jackson Blvd.) (every Tuesday and Friday) Reservations Required.


Every Wednesday:

10:00 am- 11:30 am: Free Zumba Gold at the Roos Center in Forest Park through Rush Oak Park Hospital and Park District of Forest Park. For more information, click here.


11:15 am- 12:15 pm: Line Dancing at the Dole Center (in Oak Park) for Active Adults. Free to all. Teaches rhythm, groove and hip-hop. Sign up here. 


1:00 pm- 2:00 pm: Oak Park and River Forest Township Senior Services presents Painting and Drawing with Slowfire. See upcoming classes here.


Every Third Wednesday:

2:00 pm- 4:00 pm: Memory Cafe at Oak Park Township Senior Services Location. (130 S. Oak Park Ave.) This is also offered Virtually (see attached flyer)


Every Thursday:

10:00 am- 11:00 am: Come to Oak Park Township Senior Services Office (130 S. Oak Park Ave.) and join "Mad 4 Mats" (Made with Love) Learn how to make mats for the homeless or unhoused with "plarn". Please donate any plastic bags you may have.


1:00 pm- 3:00 pm: Come to the River Forest Community Center to play Mahjong and socialize. We have a teacher for those new to the game.


Every 4th Thursday:

from 4:00 pm- 5:00 pm: The Oak Park End of Life Options Coalition has their monthly meeting. For more information on this group reach out to Roz Byrne at roz@rozrealestate.com or call (708) 370-7444.


Every Friday:

10:00 am- 10:50 am: Fitness Fellowship presents Gentle Yoga with Carol Olsen at Oak Park Arms (every Monday and Friday). Open to the community.


1:00 pm: Illinois Pathways to Health and the Mohr Center host Fit and Strong: Moving Towards a Healthier You. See flyer here. (at the Mohr Center: 7640 Jackson Blvd.)


Every Saturday: 

1:00 pm- 5:00 pm: College of DuPage Radio presents Those Were the Days with Steve Darnall. Enjoy old-time radio classics and music on 90.9 FM WDCB or listen live here.


Every 1st Saturday:

10:00 am- 1:30 pm: Repair Cafe at Fox Community Center. (Fox Center) Bring any small items that need to be repaired. If you are interested in being a volunteer repair person please stop by and let them know. Click here for more details. (see attachment below)


Every Sunday:

6:00 pm- 9:00 pm: Tune into Radio's Golden Age with Steve Darnall. KXEL- AM/1540 or listen live here. (Go to nostalgiadigest.com to learn more)



Local Music:

Music and Potlucks (a local organization of your neighbors that donates to local charities) To learn more, click here.


Friendly Music Community Calendar here.


Robert's Westside


Fitzgeralds Calendar of Events: Click here for their Event Calendar (including a lot of free music events in their side bar) They also have Baby Gold BBQ next door for before or during the show: Consider Moth Radio Show (tickets go fast) and Tuesday Bluesday, $5 Hamburger Wednesday and Voice Box


Comedy: Comedy Plex in Oak Park: Click here.



Other Useful Information: 

If you are looking for a way to meet more people and you want to be more involved in your community, connect with Arbor West Neighbors (our local Village group). Learn more here.


Blue Zone Retreats here. (not cheap!)


Recipe Box Cafe at Dominican University. See upcoming meals here. (Final Two for the Season: April 4 and April 11)


2024 Older Adult Community Market April 11 and April 25 at PAV YMCA in Berwyn (2947 Oak Park Ave., Berwyn) Free fresh fruit, vegetable and non- perishable groceries.]


Senior Tech Support is offering Virtual Tech Classes: April 15: "Switching from Cable to Streaming." Learn more here and April 29:"Cutting the Cord" here. ($20/ class)



Call 211 Metro Chicago is a free resource connecting all Cook County residents with essential health and social services to help them meet their basic needs. Trained, local specialists are available 24/7 to connect individuals with the support they need, such as food, housing, utility assistance, access to health care, and other vital resources.


Elderwerks Resource Directory here.


Rush Generations Information


The 'Old Lady Project': Angela Allen is reclaiming the phrase "Old Lady". Listen to her podcast here.


CUB (Citizens Utility Board) provides help with utility bills. If you have any concerns about your bills, call 1-800-669-5556; Call for a Free Home Assessment: a representative will walk through your house to see how you can save and will give you free products to make things more affordable. 1-855-433-2700. For Oak Park Residents also look into Oak Park Climate Action Network at opcan.org


Fraud/Scam Information:

Be careful of scammers or people trying to take advantage of you, whether they call or come to your door, including utility scammers. If you have any concerns, call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311 or CUB (the Citizens Utility Board) if it is related to your utilities at 1-800-669-5556 as well as your local Police Department. Another resource is the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline: 877-908-3360 a toll-free service available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Crime Prevention Fraud/Scam Tips from the River Forest Police Department here.

Senior Services of Oak Park and River Forest Townships:

View Senior Services of Oak Park/River Forest Townships webpage here The Township's main number is (708) 383-8060. See their Program Calendar here. For more information call me, and I can help steer you in the right direction.


OP/RF Townships Senior Services Dine-In Monday through Friday from 11am-1pm. First come, first served. No reservations required. click here to see menu (scroll down) Suggested donation: $1.50 for ages 60+; guest fee: $8.50 (under age 60). 130 S. Oak Park Ave. Drive thru/meal pickup offered Tuesday & Friday from 12pm-1pm

Go to a program before or after lunch too.


Medical Equipment Lending: The Township loans out medical equipment such as wheelchairs, canes, walkers, bedside commodes and shower chairs free of charge for as long as the equipment is needed. They also invite donations of gently used medical equipment. For more information on the availability of specific items or to place a request, contact Oak Park Township Reception at (708) 383-8005.


Home Repair Program and CAPABLE Program. See flyers below and article here.

Oak Park River Forest Township Senior Services is offering the HomeMeds program, "an evidence-based medication safety program designed to address medication safety and quality-of-life issues by screening for and resolving some potential medication problems". See flyer here. Call 708-383-8060 and ask for Bianca Ingwersen or your Care Coordinator to ask for more details or email homemedsreferrals@oakparktownship.org.


Are you a Caregiver and do you live in Oak Park, River Forest or Austin (60644, 60639) Reach out to Devin Andrews, the Caregiver Support Specialist at 708-383-8060 x 116 to learn more about their services. See attached flyers below. There is now a Grief Support Group for Caregivers every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month, from 5:30 p.m.to 7:00 p.m. PEARLS (Program to Encourage Active, Rewarding Lives) is a new offering to help adults feeling depressed. You can talk with a coach virtually or in person (6-8 times). This free to older adults in OP and RF. Call 383-8060. (Note: Memory Cafe).

Reach out to Devin Andrews too if you could use some financial assistance helping your loved one. There is some funding for some services/needed items.


For information on Transportation services call (708) 383- 4806; For information on Reduced RTA Fare Cards (or Ride Free Program) for seniors 65+ and people with disabilities call (708) 383-8005 (the main Oak Park Township Office). There are also discount Blue Cab Coupon Booklets available through the township. ($10 worth of coupons for $6) Get the Blue Cab app; go to their website here.


Remember we have In Case of Emergency (ICE) packets for Oak Park and River Forest Residents. A way to store your emergency information so the fire department can find it when needed (in your freezer). Call for more information.


Active Adults/ Senior Programming through the Park District of Oak Park (at Dole Center):

For about $50/ year this programming is open to Oak Park and neighboring communities (Austin, River Forest, Forest Park, Berwyn etc.) To learn more about the Active Adult program, click here. To see Adult Offerings, click here, from exercise programs, including beginning pickleball to game days, movies, trips, stained glass, ceramics and more. Call Megan Ulczak for more details or questions at (708)725-2106 or email her at megan.ulczak@pdop.org


Also, see their Upcoming Trips*. Click here, go to General Recreation and click on Trips.


See Forest Park Programming and Trips in attachment below.

Grief /Support Groups:

Friendship Line (The Institute on Aging) 24 hour toll free hotline/warmline (for emotional support, crisis intervention or well being checks):

800-971-0016.


Grace Lutheran runs Grief Support Groups. Call (708) 366 - 6900 or email them at gracechurch@graceriverforest.org to see if they are currently running a group. Also, see the Grief Share Website here.


LOSS (Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide) is meeting in person again from 6 pm- 8 pm at the River Forest Community Center on the second floor every 3rd Monday of the month. Call 312-655-7283 for more information. See sample Newsletter here.


988 National Suicide helpline and Website here.


Oak Park and River Forest Senior Services has Memory Cafe (every third Tuesday of each month)for caregivers of someone with Memory "Changes" as well as for the person going through memory changes; there is also a Caregiver Support Group that meets twice a month (for Caregivers in Oak Park, River Forest and Austin) There is now a Grief Support Group for Caregivers every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month, from 5:30 p.m.to 7:00 p.m.Call Devin Andrews, Caregiver Support Specialist at 708-725-9116 for more details on current support groups. (see flyers below) [ask about PEARLS too for older adults suffering from Depression. See flyer here. Get 6-8 visits with a coach (virtual or in person) to help you move forward.]


The Alzheimer's Association holds a support Group at Belmont Village in Oak Park and is open to any family member or friend caring for someone with memory problems. They meet the 4th Saturday of the month from 9 - 11am. Contact the facilitator, Julie Bach at  jbach@dom.edu so she can make sure it is the right fit and to confirm the date (dates sometimes change if close to a holiday).


For support groups for Family and persons with early onset dementia, contact Susan Frick at Rush Chicago Hospital at 312-942-5359 or email at Susan_Frick@rush.edu to learn about her Support Group Without Warning


Rush Hospital Support for Caregivers: Flyer here.


There is a Virtual Support Group every 3rd Wednesday of the month from 3:30 pm- 5:00 pm for Caregivers of those with Dementia through University of Chicago (all other caregivers welcome as well) Join the Zoom Meeting here. Meeting ID: 916 2406 0613 Passcode: 037943. Email Jenil Bennett at jbennett@bsd.uchicago.edu or Monica Long at Mlong1@bsd.uchicago.edu for more information.

Volunteer Opportunities: 

Senior Services of Oak Park and River Forest Townships is in need of meal delivery drivers. This is just over an hour commitment on a Tuesday or Friday morning. This is a great opportunity if you are looking for something to do with a partner or friend. Please reach out to Mercedes Nash at mnash@oakparktownship.org or call 708- 383-8060 x 3134.


Housing Forward Group Volunteer Opportunities here.

Contact Volunteer & Outreach Manager Cherrell Jackson at cjackson@housingforward.org or 708.338.1724 x201 Current needs are welcoming new clients, having a collection drive; sharing your computer knowledge, dropping off meals, administrative help.


A House in Austin Volunteer Opportunities here.


Loyola Medicine is looking for Hospice Volunteers to offer companionship, play games and offer respite to family members. This would entail visiting once a week for 1-3 hours over 2 months. You can volunteer as often or as little as you want. Call Joanne at 630-861-5183 or email her at joanne.moore002@luhs.org. See flyer here.


Gun Safety AdvocacyEverytown USA/Mom's Demand Action Oak Park/Austin Area here. Help fund Mercy Garden of Peace and Healing. Learn more here.


The Democratic Party of Oak Park is looking for volunteers. Come to their meeting the second Saturday of the month to learn how you can get involved. They are located at 6941-A W. North Ave, Oak Park. Their phone number is (708) 386-0090


Triton is looking for volunteers to help tutor students in English. (see flyer below). Work one-on-one or in a small group for 2 hours/week. Students are very motivated to learn. Students live in Maywood, Melrose Park, Oak Park and in Triton's district. You can be flexible where you meet. Call or email Kathy Kianzad for more information. kathykianzad@triton.edu or 708-456-0300 ext 3365 (also see flyer here and attached). Wait to fill out the application when you meet with her. Please spread the word!


"Wonder Works is looking for volunteers. Do you play an instrument, enjoy reading stories, have a love of art or creating, like gardening, or maybe have a collection you’d like to share?  Please reach out to Sara Yount at president@wonder-works.org or visit the Wonder Works website: www.wonder-works.org to find out more information about sharing your time and talent with children in our community!"


For other Volunteer Opportunities please call me.

Exercise and other Class Offerings:

(for any exercise program, check with your doctor first)


Oak Park River Forest Township Senior Services Class offerings here.


Illinois Pathways to Health and the Mohr Center host Fit and Strong: Moving Towards a Healthier You. See flyer here. (at the Mohr Center: 7640 Jackson Blvd.) (see Tuesday above)


Rush Oak Park Hospital and The Park District of Forest Park present Zumba Gold at the Roos Rec Center in Forest Park. This is a free program, but you need to register in advance. Click here for details or call call 708-366-7500 or 708-866-7667. (see Wednesday above)


River Forest Park District Opportunities: Look at pages 9-14 on River Forest Park Districts Fun Guide for Wellness Programs for Adults, including Susan Schwarting's Meditation and Drumming Classes (p. 13) here. Pickleball at the River Forest Community Center: See Class information here.


Fitness Fellowship is offering Gentle Yoga and Tai Chi at the Oak Park Arms from 10:00 am- 10:50 am. See ongoing programming above in blue section.


Silver Sneakers at Gottlieb and Other Locations.

For more information, click here.

Click here for Gottlieb's Aqua Group Exercise.


For Silver Sneakers Programs nearby: Click here.

Also, reach out to Toccara Daniel. She teaches classes at Oak Street Health (3433 W. Madison) and Mills Tower. See if your insurance covers classes. Reach out to her at FIT4CHICAGO@yahoo.com (Zumba Gold, Strength and Balance, Line Dancing. See class schedule here.


The Park District of Oak Park along with the Senior Center of Oak Park and River Forest offer Active Adult Programing at the Dole Center for adults 50+ in Oak Park/River Forest and neighboring communities. They offer a lot, from tai chi to stain glass classes to dinner club and trips. Click here to learn more. Call or email Megan Ulczak if you have any questions at Megan.ulczak@pdop.org or (708) 725-2106.


Triton College's Personal Enrichment and Leisure Classes for Adults: here.  Triton offers affordable Continuing Education and Exercise Classes if you are in District 504 (which includes Oak Park, River Forest and Forest Park):  Call 708- 456-0300 x3500 for more details and to register for classes.][Ballroom Dancing, Zumba Gold, Tai Chi, Aquacize and Beginner Swimming, Guitar, Piano, Painters Workshop and Retirement Classes are some of the offerings]. Triton also has an indoor track (in building R) open to the public from 7am- 8pm. Call 708-456-0300 x3825 for more information.


Tina Birnbaum is teaching Absolute Beginners Tai Chi at the Dole Center on Friday mornings from 8:45 am- 9:45 am. Click here to register. [Go to "Drop in" and "One Day" Programs and then click "Active Adult Health and Fitness" and then go to the very bottom.] (see active adult programming through Park District of Oak Park below- open to all communities) If you have a hard time signing up, call Megan Ulczak at (708)725-2106 or email her at megan.ulczak@pdop.org


Jazzercise is being offered at the River Forest Community Center in the second floor dance room M,W, Th 5:30 pm and Saturdays at 10:30 am. Cost is $79 per month.  For more information reach out to Susan Draus at susanmdraus@aol.com.

(12 classes for $80)


Virtual/ Online Exercise and other Classes:

Berwyn Library Virtual Senior Yoga every Tuesday at 2:00 pm. Register here.


Senior Planet also has good online Exercise programming and the National YMCA has some good exercise videos. 


Road Scholar online classes: 21 online trips- $25/ class: here.)


Mather Virtual Programming: Mindness and Health, Aromatherapy, Discussion Groups, Creative Arts and Art Making, Movement and Dance and Music. See classes here. Do it yourself (DYI) Art Kits: Register here.  


Senior Planet and AARP Virtual Community Center (AARP has Movies for GrownUps online).

Call with any questions, concerns or suggestions. Please send information my way that you think others would be interested in.

Reminder: See attachments below.

Betsy


Betsy Burton Kelly

Senior Outreach Coordinator

River Forest Township

bkelly.rftownship@gmail.com

(708) 366-2029 x13

Attachments:

River Forest Township Senior Services


River Forest Township HomeSharing Pilot


Township Caregiver Support


Rush Caregiving for Caregivers.


Coffee Mondays April, May, June


Celebrating Seniors all Year Long


Virtual Dementia Caregiver Support Group


Memory Cafe


Grief Support Group

Triton Access to Literacy


988 Suicide Hotline


Forest Park March and April News



Home Repair Flyer


CAPABLE


Repair Cafe



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