We support & enrich aging through community building & advocacy.
Arbor West Neighbors programs are open to members and the community at large. Each program is designed to incorporate four Es:
Expose to create awareness
Educate to create learning
Engage to create community
Empower to create change
If you have an idea for a program or want to be a part of the Program Working Group, send a note to Gil@ManagingHorizons.com.
Next Programs from AWN and Chicago Area Villages Collaborative
There will be no AWN programs in July or August.
September and October
There is much going on in the world, nation and our community and families that can cause stress and anxiety. Our September program will explore ways we react to change and help build understanding of this new normal. Participants will explore typical responses to any kind of change and how to build personal resilience. In October we’ll present specific actions we older adults might take to help deal with internal and external changes – how we can be more proactive and not feel we are simply victims of circumstances.
These programs will be presented by experts on coping with stress and ways to be engaged in responding to changes affecting us. Watch for specific details in upcoming emails and on our website.
Coming Programs from Chicago Area Villages Collaborative
Note: These programs are typically FREE and presented via Zoom. You must register to get access details for each program.
Modern Choices for After-Life Care
August 13, 2025 4 - 5 pm via Zoom
This presentation will address evolving trends and options in body disposition. Learn the key differences between traditional and green cremation and burial, emerging technologies in the death care industry, and innovative approaches like Organic Human Reduction (composting) as well as body donation toscience. This session offers valuable insights into meaningful, environmentally conscious, and science-supportive choices.
Brooke Benjamin is a partner at Inclusive Funeral Care (IFC) and is a Chicago-born Funeral Director and Celebrant with nearly 30 years of experience. IFC performs burials, funerals, cremations, celebrations of lives, pet services,dispositions, merchandise. Green Options available.
Click here to register.
Medical Aid in Dying
September 4, 2025 4 - 5 pm via Zoom
Illinois’ End-of-Life Options Act (SB 9/HB 1328) would let a mentally capable,terminally ill adult with six months to live request medication they may self-administer to end suffering. After clearing the House 63-42 on May 30 andthe Senate Executive Committee 8-3 on April 9, the bill now awaits a full Senate vote. We’ll compare Illinois’ safeguards with the record of 12 jurisdictions where medical aid in dying is already legal, and openly weigh thehopes and concerns so each attendee can form their own view.
Tiffany Noelle Johnson has been serving as a certified Death Doula for more than 8yrs, Tiffany draws on a background in clinical massage therapy and art therapy to provide holistic, grounded guidance.
Click here to register.
Death Doula Discussion
October 15, 2025 4 - 5 pm via Zoom
Death can be a challenging topic to discuss. Many wonder why and how to prepare for it. You will hear about what a Death Doula is, why people benefit from the services provided, what a home funeral is, how to explore your legacy and the importance of preserving it. Death Doulas have facilitated life-to-death transitions for both the dying and those left behind in all cultures since ancient times. The role of a Death Doula is to support and honor the wishes of a dying individual.Pat Bardenett, LCSW is a licensed, clinical, social worker, certified grief and loss specialist and certified death doula. She is coauthor of the workbook, "Peace and Grace at the End: Making Peace with Your Life" and principal of Peace and Grace.
Click here to register.
Arbor West Neighbors
Arbor West Neighbors (AWN) is a grassroots organization of neighbors in Oak Park, River Forest, Forest Park and Austin connected to support and enrich aging through community building and advocacy. Our mission is to empower adults to thrive as we age in community.
Our vision is to build a multi-ethnic, multicultural community where all older adults are valued, age with dignity, and enjoy opportunities for growth and engagement.
We are an all-volunteer 501(c)3 organization with over 120 members.