The Senior Citizens' Center - Oak Park River Forest is the oldest senior center in the state of Illinois. Since 1954 it has been considered the cultural, educational and recreational center for thousands of mature individuals aged 50 and older. These folks have benefited from the opportunity to expand their interests, continue their quest for lifelong learning and become actively involved within the community. Center activities serve to support independence, broaden horizons and encourage socialization thus lessening isolation that can lead to premature institutionalization.

The Senior Center programs are offered to our communities in space donated by the Oak Park Arms Retirement Community at 414 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL. Programs are also available throughout the community. By collaborating with other organizations, the Senior Center has taken advantage of locations throughout the area. This past year programs have been offered at the Oak Park Public Library, Grace Lutheran Church, Mills Park Tower, and Holley Court Terrace

Services and programs provided by the Center include art and painting classes, creative writing, crafts, ceramics, woodshop, weaving, lapidary, Men's Club, language classes (Italian, Spanish, and German), exercise classes, Investor' Club, and Singing Belles and Beaux. In addition, there are opportunities for gatherings such as parties, potlucks, noon lunches and more. Each week a group of volunteers make tray favors for the patients at West Suburban Hospital. Volunteers are needed to manage the House wares department at the Economy Shop.

The Senior Center is maintained by applying for grants, holding fund-raising events and sales of hand-crafted items made by our artist members. We rely heavily on individual contributions and family foundations to continue our presence in the community. Individual yearly dues of $25 don't cover the total amount needed, so our longevity depends on our ability to plan for the future through planned giving and individual endowments. We are seeking the help of all those who will benefit from these programs, either directly or indirectly, to contribute to the Senior Citizens' Center - Oak Park River Forest. Please call Pat Koko at 708-848-5251 to learn more.