Woodstock residents have a brand new strategy to benefit from the outside: a stroll within the woods within the metropolis’s Em-ricson Park.

The crushed-limestone path opened in September and has pure play areas, creating the realm’s first intergenerational nature path. It runs via an oak forest speckled with taking pictures star vegetation, trillium flowers and wild geraniums. Sharp-eyed walkers could spot deer, foxes, sandhill cranes and different wildlife. It’s large sufficient for a wheelchair to navigate.

Town of Woodstock, positioned about 50 miles northwest of Chicago, acquired a 2022 AARP Neighborhood Problem grant for the venture. It was considered one of 4 Illinois winners of the awards, which fund native initiatives to enhance the standard of life for all residents.

“We’re at all times on the lookout for funds to create new public facilities for the rising variety of residents over age 50,” says Terry Willcockson, metropolis of Woodstock grants supervisor.

About 90 Illinois organizations utilized for the grants, which totaled practically $115,000 this 12 months. Candidates proposed initiatives to enhance areas for adults 50-plus, each of their houses and in public areas, and sought to reinforce intergenerational actions, parks and training alternatives, says Ellen Acevedo, AARP Illinois volunteer engagement and mobilization director.

“Selections had been tough, as there have been so many nice proposals,” Acevedo says.

Rising accessibility

Two different Illinois municipalities and a nonprofit additionally acquired grants. Within the Chicago space, the SafeLIGHT Basis will use its AARP award to supply taxi and ride-sharing providers to older adults via its Seniors Matter program.

These space residents want a strategy to safely get to the physician, pharmacy, grocery retailer and different important locations, says Yvonne Davila, the inspiration’s govt director. The providers can be supplied in Nation Membership Hills, Evergreen Park, Matteson, Richton Park and Skokie.

“So lots of my girlfriends should drive their senior mother and father someplace,” Davila says. “We respect this chance to assist seniors keep mobility and independence.” 

In Rockford, the town’s AARP grant helped fund a venture that included repairs to ramps, stairs, railings and porches in houses in six neighborhoods with a excessive variety of residents 65 and older. The grant additionally paid for road signal repairs, road sweeping and the set up of benches and raised backyard beds.

Close to the state’s southern tip, a neighborhood problem grant funded enhancements to Metropolis Park, in Mounds. Town targeted on making the park extra accessible for older residents. New bogs with greater seats within the park’s restrooms meet People With Disabilities Act necessities.

New benches and tables full the adjustments, which make the park an much more welcoming hub for all ages, says Alsandra Lewis, 77, a lifetime resident of Mounds. The retired highschool trainer has used the park for household and sophistication reunions, Labor Day and Fourth of July celebrations, and a stroll to lift cash for breast most cancers analysis.

“It’s the middle of gatherings and fellowship for the neighborhood,” Lewis says. “For it to be in the absolute best form is vital.”

Lisa Bertagnoli is a author residing in Chicago.

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