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ABOUT US

Illinois Pathways to Health, an initiative of AgeOptions, improves the well-being of older adults and individuals with disabilities through free evidence-based programs across Illinois.

Mission

We empower older adults and caregivers through free, evidence-based health workshops—helping them live healthier, more independent lives.

Vision

We believe that a sustainable, integrated, evidence-based health promotion network will improve access to valuable, community-based health education across Illinois. Our network is designed to:​​

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  • Foster clinical-community partnerships

  • Bridge gaps in public health and prevention strategies

  • Empower individuals with the tools and knowledge to improve their health and well-being

Our Impact

We do more than run workshops—we create pathways to healthier lives and stronger communities.

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Launched in 2015 by AgeOptions—a nonprofit organization that has connected older adults and caregivers with vital resources since 1974—IL Pathways to Health builds on decades of experience supporting independence and quality of life.

13,000+

Participants

Since 2015, over 13,000 individuals have participated in our evidence-based health programs.

900+

Workshops

Delivered statewide, both in-person and virtually.

22+

Counties

Serving urban and rural communities across Illinois.

What Guides Our Work

Commitment | Integrity | Connectedness

Healthier Lives

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Build skills to manage chronic conditions, prevent falls, and stay independent.​

​Lower Healthcare Costs

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Improve self-management, reducing ER visits and hospitalizations.

​ Stronger Communities

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Foster connection, confidence, and local support.

How We Make a Difference

Our work strengthens health, independence, and community connections across Illinois. Through partnerships, evidence-based workshops, and coordinated support, we help older adults, caregivers, and communities thrive.

Creating Lasting Change

​​We improve health and independence by partnering with healthcare providers and community organizations to deliver trusted, community-based solutions across Illinois—helping people get the right support at the right time.​​

How We Work

As a Community Care Hub, we coordinate health promotion and social support services—aligning healthcare systems and community partners to expand access and improve outcomes.​

What We Deliver

We deliver evidence-based workshops, connect individuals to social supports, and collect outcome data—ensuring programs are effective, accessible, and responsive to community needs.

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Programs are offered in-person and online, in multiple languages, and at little to no cost—removing barriers to participation.

Who We Serve

​We support older adults, caregivers, healthcare partners, and community organizations—reaching both urban and rural communities throughout Illinois.

Our Programs

Evidence-based programs that promote health, safety, and independence.

Blue leaf symbol inside a white circle represents Take Charge programs.

Take Charge

Evidence-based workshops to help individuals manage chronic conditions and improve self-care.

Purple figure with raised arm inside white circle, representing falls prevention programs.

Prevent Falls

Increase your activity, build strength and improve balance to reduce your risk of falls. Learn ways to modify your environment and more to prevent falling.

Orange heart icon with line graph, representing caregiver support programs,

Caregiver Support

If you care for an adult with ongoing health or support needs, our programs provide guidance and support to help you manage caregiving with confidence.

Find evidence-based workshops in your community. 

THE
TEAM

Robert
Mapes

VP of Health Collaborations & Innovations

Barbara
Ward

Manager - IL Pathways to Health

Jaime
Peña 

Health Promotion

Team Lead

Taisha
Selby

Community Health Worker

Team Lead

Joan 
Fox

Network Hub

Operations Specialist

Amanda 
Moudry

Health Promotion 

Data Systems Specialist

Samantha
Welton

Health Promotion

Program Specialist

Emily
Bernard

Health Promotion

Program Specialist

Sharri
Scott

Health Promotion

Program Specialist

Dominisha
Quinn

Community Health Worker

Aurora
Luna

Community Health Worker

AgeOptions logo.

Illinois Pathways to Health is owned and operated by AgeOptions. Through collaboration, we ensure that evidence-based health programs reach individuals and communities who need them most.

Interested in bringing these programs to your community? To learn more or get involved, contact us at (800) 699-9043 or email us at info@ilpathwaystohealth.org.

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