AgeLinc recognizes ALL older adults. We are an inclusive and welcoming community for everyone regardless of race, sexual orientation or gender identity. 

On February 23rd, Bill SB3490 which is a Commission on LGBTQ Aging, passed the Senate and has now been referred to the Rules Committee. If signed into Law, the LGBTQ community will have representation concerning the Council on Aging and allow recommendations for the overall quality of life.

LGBT older adults are 2 TIMES as likely to be single and live alone, 4 TIMES less likely to have children, MORE likely to face poverty and homelessness, and to have poor physical and mental health.* We want to make a difference.

AgeLinc has taken the initiative to become SAGE Platinum Certified (Advocacy and Services for LGBT Elders) and has created a community driven program honoring the needs of our Senior LGBT population. Recently, PrideLinc was formed and PrideLinc's purpose is to provide equitable services, support, social connection and education to LGBT+ older adults and allies in order to help them maintain dignity, health and independent living.

This month, we are proud to announce a meal program for LGBT+ seniors and allies! Lunches will be served at the AgeLinc office every Thursday at 11:30 am. There will be time for education and socialization. To find out more information or to reserve your lunch, contact Prairie at 217.787.9234. Applications must be received by the Tuesday prior to each Thursday, and reservations are required.

Illinois Valley Economic Development Corporation is a charitable and educational organization developed to serve the community, change lives, increase self-sufficiency, and embody a spirit of hope. IVEDC serves Green, Jersey, Macoupin and Calhoun Counties and offers a vast array of services for all ages, from senior services all the way down to a Head Start Program.

Many of the services directly assist seniors such as the Community Services Block Grant, Energy Assistance and Weatherization, Transportation, In Home Care, Benefit Access application and Medicare information and Nutrition.

The Senior Nutrition Program serves around 600 unduplicated clients per month of which, 450 are served hot meals daily. Since the onset of COVID-19, the percentage of home delivered meals has risen to about 80% as opposed to 20% of congregate meals. There are 5 Senior Nutrition sites located in Gillespie, Carlinville, Palmyra, Jerseyville, and Carrollton.

Senior Transportation is available throughout their footprint and in some cases they are capable of crossing county lines.

The employees of IVEDC love what they do and are in it for others more than themselves. It is not unusual for both Transportation and Nutrition to do well checks while making their rounds. Since social isolation has a higher prevalence in rural areas, these programs become an extra layer of protection to those who are served. Recently, during a meal delivery in Jersey County, a volunteer received no response from the resident. After shouting into the home to check on the owner, the volunteer found them on the floor. With permission, the volunteer called 911 and stayed by their side until help arrived. The staff at IVEDC understands what is needed to serve their community. Not only do they go above and beyond the expectations of their clients, but they also enjoy their work. Learn more about the Illinois Valley Economic Development Corporation.

Colorectal cancer is highly preventable and treatable when caught early, but only if you know about their risk and screening options in the first place. With early detection of this disease, it is estimated that well over half of the deaths that occur annually could be prevented. Continue reading...