The Village Chicago

Brain Spa
2024-09-03 11:00 - 12:00, 2024-09-17 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago)
Members & guests–free. RSVP below!
This is a virtual Zoom session held every other week, open to anyone who would like to get connected to others, practice skills and exercise their brain. Join us for puzzles and challenges, storytelling and reminiscing in a comfortable and casual environment. These sessions will be an hour long and are meant to be fun and interactive. You don’t need to attend all sessions to participate, feel free to drop in whenever you would like!

Exercise at Home with Jill Stein
2024-09-03 13:00 - 14:00, 2024-09-10 13:00 - 14:00, 2024-09-17 13:00 - 14:00, 2024-09-24 13:00 - 14:00
Members & guests–$15* per class. Click here to register and you will receive details to join the class via Zoom. To join your first session for FREE, please email celebrate@thevillagechicago.org.
Come move your body and have fun! Work on functional/full body strength,joint mobility, posture, balance, pairing movement with breath, and core strength. This one hour class starts with warm up movements, moves to balance, posture and resistance exercises, and finishes with seated core and stretching exercises.
Class is done standing, using a wall and seated. Any standing movements can be mimicked in a chair if needed. Modify as needed, or ask for alternative movements during demos.
For the class, have a stable chair (like a dining table chair), and two light hand weights (two water bottles or two cans) to use for resistance exercises. Wear athletic shoes that secure onto your feet and have water to drink. Dress in clothes you can move in comfortably and dress in layers that are easy to remove if you get warm.
About Jill Stein
Instructor Jill Stein is a veteran group exercise instructor and personal trainer with over 20 years of experience and over 15 years experience working with older adults.

Exploring Watercolor Painting
2024-09-04 11:00 - 12:00, 2024-09-18 11:00 - 12:00 | Village Office, 2502 N. Clark, Chicago, IL, 60614, United States
Wednesdays, bi-weekly through September 18
Members & guests: $10
Join member Ray Enriquez for a bi-weekly session of watercolor painting – no experience required! Participants will explore creative expression in a relaxed, social environment, and learn some basics of watercolors along the way. Registration cost includes a paint set, brushes, and paper. You are also welcome to bring your own!

Coping with Grief and Loss with the HAP Foundation
2024-09-04 11:00 - 12:00
Members & guests- Free! RSVP below to register. This event will be presented virtually via Zoom.
Description: Loss and grief are a part of all of our lives yet navigating grief can feel overwhelming. We
have lost lives, social interaction, and much more during the pandemic. It can be a struggle to cope with
the death of a loved one. This presentation provides a guide to the different types of loss and how they
affect us. We will address common myths about grief. We will also discuss the different categories of
grief and grief-informed care. Participants will learn coping strategies and how best to support grieving
loved ones. Resources for grief support will also be shared. Participants are encouraged to share stories
and experiences if they feel comfortable doing so. We aim to build a safe space to honor loss, integrate
grief, and support one another.
Presenter Bio: Maureen Burns (she/her/ella) is a Community Health Worker /Promotora de Salud and
the Director of Community Health at The HAP Foundation. The HAP Foundation is a nonprofit leader
with a refined focus to elevate access to and increase understanding of serious illness and hospice and
palliative care through community and clinical education, workforce development, research, and
advocacy. Maureen works in and around Rogers Park and West Ridge, providing free community
education and linking patients and loved ones to resources within their community. She has over 15
years of experience working in health care and a Bachelor of Arts degree in community health, culture,
and aging. She is currently a graduate student, pursuing her MPH.

Great Books, Great Conversations
2024-09-04 19:00 - 20:00 | Zoom, Chicago, IL, United States
Location: via Zoom

Members and guests – Free!
This ongoing Village discussion group meets online the first Wednesday of each month to discuss a selection of short readings from an anthology published by The Great Books Foundation. Although the group has been meeting for years, they are very welcoming to new members!
Beginning in December of 2023, the group will be reading from the anthology Imperfect Ideal: Utopian and Dystopian Visions. These short, engaging readings illustrate the best and worst of what can happen when we attempt to mold the complex communities in which we live into our vision of a perfect state. All 23 selections in this anthology challenge readers to question how society should be structured and governed, as well as what kinds of communities are most conducive to human fulfillment, both privately and in the civic arena. The readings are sure to spark conversations that are relevant to current events in our city, nation and world.

Weekly Walks around North Pond
2024-09-05 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-09-12 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-09-19 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-09-26 10:00 - 11:00 | North Pond Cafe, 2610 N. Cannon Dr., Chicago, IL, United States
Meet in front of North Pond Restaurant (2610 N. Cannon)
Members & guests: free
Enjoy some exercise and conversation every Thursday morning with new and established friends. Path is paved and accessible for those using mobility aids. Walks continue through October.
Note: Once you RSVP for a North Pond walk, you will receive weekly reminders moving forward unless otherwise requested.

Short Story Intergenerational Discussions
2024-09-05 17:00 - 18:00, 2024-09-12 17:00 - 18:00, 2024-09-19 17:00 - 18:00
Members & guests–free. To RSVP, please scroll down. The day before each discussion, registered attendees will receive a confirmation email with a link to join via Zoom.
RSVP to Join! This is an ongoing discussion group. After you register, you will receive weekly emails with Zoom details and a link to that week’s story. While the group meets weekly, members and guests are welcome to drop in for one or all discussions.

Health Hub: Solo Aging
2024-09-06 14:00 - 15:00
Members & guests- free! RSVP below to register for this virtual program.
In September, Health Hub tackles solo aging. Solo aging or “Solo Agers” refers to adults who are ultimately responsible for making decisions on their own and building their own support networks. This can apply to a variety of situations, from people who have never been married or don’t have children, to people who may have family and support but in a limited way. For example, perhaps adult children reside out of state, or perhaps a partner has shown cognitive changes, leaving most decisions to the partner who is not affected by those changes. This session will delve into the science behind solo aging, then will open up to a wider discussion on the subject among attendees. We will also plan to use this as a forum to discuss whether Village Chicago members might like the formation of a Solo Aging program to provide additional support to those that identify as Solo Agers. We hope to see you there!

Introduction to Forest Bathing
2024-09-07 09:45 - 12:00 | North Park Village Center, 5801 N Pulaski Rd, Chicago, 60646, United States
Members & guests: $45
North Park Village Nature Center, 5801 N Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL. Carpooling is recommended. This event is limited to 12 participants.
Join Certified Forest Therapy Guide Alyse Rynor for a Forest Bathing walk. Alyse, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of Soul Choice Counseling, has been guiding these walks since 2021.
Forest Bathing, also known as Forest Therapy, helps counteract nature deprivation and improves physical and emotional health. Scientific studies show benefits such as a stronger immune system, reduced anxiety, and slower heart rates. This practice involves immersive, mindful engagement with nature through sensory-opening activities. The gentle walk covers less than a mile in 2 hours, with opportunities for sharing and a tea ceremony. Designed for adults, it promises peace and a deeper connection to nature.
Afterwards, join your fellow Village Forest bathers for lunch at the Backyard Grill: 6355 N Pulaski Rd, Chicago, Illinois 60646
This event is accessible.

Saturday Afternoon at the Movies
2024-09-07 15:00 - 16:00, 2024-09-14 15:00 - 16:00, 2024-09-21 15:00 - 16:00 | Zoom, Chicago, IL, United States
Members & guests–free
Every Saturday afternoon, join fellow film aficionados of the Village for an in-depth discussion of films new and old, led by Village member Mel Washburn. Watch the selected film any time–or enjoy the discussion and be persuaded to view it after!
Check back for this week’s film!

Spinal Health as We Age
2024-09-11 11:00 - 12:00
Members & guests- free! Presented via Zoom. RSVP below to register.
As we get older, it is not uncommon to experience an increase in aches, pains and joint stiffness. Thankfully, there are several things that can help maintain function and flexibility in your spine as you age. Join us as we discuss what happens to the spine as you age, common conditions seen in older adults and ways to prevent back pain and injuries in the future with Dr. Katie Keelin from Total Balance Chiropractic.
This virtual/Zoom presentation will:
-Explain what happens to the spine as we age
-Discuss common conditions in older adults that can present themselves as back pain, leg pain, issues with walking, loss of height and more
-Steps to take now to help you avoid back pain and other spinal conditions in the future
-Time for questions with Dr. Katie!
About the Presenter: Dr. Katie, originally from Burnsville, Minnesota, attended Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, MN. She received her Doctor of Chiropractic Degree with a Sports and Rehabilitation Emphasis from Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, Minnesota. Dr. Katie is passionate about using current research and evidence informed care to provide the best possible outcomes for patients. She believes in the importance of chiropractic care, to treat everyone from athletes to weekend warriors, because of the holistic, individualized and comprehensive approach to patient wellbeing. She truly finds joy in getting her patients back to doing what they love, no matter what skill level they are at. Dr. Katie currently practices at Total Balance Chiropractic in the Lakeview neighborhood.

Reducing Fall Risk Part 2: In Your Home
2024-09-12 12:00 - 13:00
Location: Via Zoom
Members & guests $10
Come join us for the second workshop in a two-part series on reducing fall risk. This virtual workshop is designed to enhance safety for seniors in their homes. From ideas for improving mobility to boosting strength and balance, this comprehensive discussion aims to minimize fall risk and promote confidence while moving about your home including high risk areas like the bathroom and stairs. In this program we will also continue our discussion on gait patterns.
About Jill Stein
Instructor Jill Stein is a veteran group exercise instructor and personal trainer with over 20 years of experience and over 15 years experience working with older adults.

Crossing the Bridge
2024-09-18 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom, Chicago, IL, United States
Location: via Zoom
Members & guests: free.

Death Cafe has evolved! Crossing the Bridge is a safe space to share personal feelings about death as we support and learn from each other. In addition to exploring our own thoughts, we talk about books, films, legislative developments, organizations, and other topics related to death and dying. All are welcome!
Learn more about end of life planning, contemplating one’s mortality and fears around death.

Light Up the Night- The Village Chicago Annual Fundraiser
2024-09-24 17:30 - 19:30 | Chicago History Museum, 1601 N Clark, Chicago, IL, 60614, United States
You are invited to our very special fundraiser. Enjoy a lively reception with delectable appetizers, drinks, games, prizes, and an exciting raffle. There will be a live auction with amazing getaways and other extravagant treats and unforgettable entertainment by performers from Lyric’s world-renowned Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center.

Click here for Early Bird Tickets Now!
Early bird tickets are $90. Tickets are $110 after September 6.
Click Here to Become an Underwriting Sponsor or Join the Host Committee!
Volunteers Wanted!
There are numerous ways to get involved and support this important fundraiser. Please email info@thevillagechicago.org or call 773-248-8700 to sign up and be part of our amazing night.

A Legal Road Map for Aging Well
2024-09-25 11:00 - 12:00
Members & guests- free. RSVP below to register.
This event will be presented virtually via Zoom.
About the Event: We all know what’s needed to age well regarding physical, cognitive, and mental health. However, what about financial and legal health? Attend this program, presented by an elder law attorney, to learn how proper advanced legal planning can help ensure you and your loved ones are setup for success.
About the Presenter: Attorney Katie Casey of Dutton Casey & Mesolaras PC will be leading this presentation, one of only a few Certified Elder Law Attorneys in Illinois. Her practice focuses on long term care planning, estate planning, special needs planning, Medicaid planning and applications, and probate and trust administration. She devotes a substantial portion of her time to helping families plan for the care of a loved one with a chronic care need.

CSO Open Rehearsal
2024-09-25 13:30 - 16:00 | Symphony Center, 220 S Michigan Ave., Chicago, 60604, United States
Members & guests: free

Location: Orchestra Hall (220 S Michigan Ave)

Enjoy a free concert with the CSO at the first open rehearsal of the 2024-25 season. This performance will feature conductor Nikolaj Szeps-Znaide and Antoine Tamestit on Viola performing VAUGHN WILLIAMS Overture to The Wasps; WALTON Viola Concerto; TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No. 4 in F Minor, Op. 36. Register now – space is limited!

Mac Tutor: Top Maps Apps
2024-09-26 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom, Chicago, IL, United States
Members & guests – $15. Click here to purchase.
This program will be presented live on Zoom and recorded. Your registration entitles you to attend the presentation and/or view the recording for one month after.
If you’re traveling to a new place, want to shave time off your daily commute, or need to find the lowest gas price, we’ve tested the top map apps to help you find the right one. But which map app is the best? I have thoroughly tested the top three contenders to help you decide.
Our instructor, Mr. Joe Daddezio, formerly of Apple Inc., was born and raised in Lincoln Park. During his career as The MacTutor, Joe has helped thousands of folks get more from their Mac, iPhone, and iPad.

Online Sound Meditation
2024-09-26 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom, Chicago, IL, United States
Location: via Zoom
Members & guests: $20

This program will be presented over Zoom and recorded. To join, purchase your ticket here. Registered attendees will receive a Zoom link and information on how to join the day before the event, as well as the recording of the event.
“Who, in our chaotic world, doesn’t need a calm, peaceful meditation experience, especially one using a method—sound—that we wouldn’t do ourselves? And the best is being led by Jill Stein who really knows what she is doing with a variety of bowls being struck to make engagingly different sounds. Her soft voice as she describes the process adds to the sense of enormous calm that you feel. Whatever makes us feel more and better, in the hands of an expert, is a good thing!” – A Sound Meditation Participant
Come learn about the seven main chakras, relax, and enjoy a sound meditation from your own home! Make sure you’re well hydrated, then find a comfortable place to recline or a supportive chair to sit in. Join us to hear the relaxing sounds of a Tibetan singing bowl, crystal singing bowls, a steel tongue drum, tuning forks, and a rain stick.
Please note: sound meditation is considered safe, but those with pacemakers and pregnant people are asked to consult with their doctor before participating. All attendees (including virtual) will be asked to sign a waiver to participate.
