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Interest Groups

Below is a list and description of current interest groups.

Participation in interest groups is for members only.  

If you are a member, click here to see full descriptions and contact information.​​

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Not a member? Click here to learn more or join.

If you have an idea for a new interest group we will help you with the start-up process.

Contact Gil Herman for more information. gilherman1949@gmail.com

Mix of Minds Discussion Group

This group meets monthly to discuss thought-provoking articles from any source. Articles and questions are chosen by group members on a rotating basis.

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Theater Going Group

This group is for people interested in seeing plays together. After a play is selected, each person buys their own ticket with senior discount. Typically the group meets after the performance for a brief discussion. Carpools are arranged as needed.​

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Fiber Arts Group

This group meets twice monthly to knit, crochet, appliqué, finger weave, mend, embroider, or other textile projects.

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Movie Group

This popular activity is offered at watch parties,  includes popcorn and is followed by discussion.

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Walking Group.

Currently all walking groups arre on break until Spring.

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Arts and Crafts Days

This group meets occasionally to work on various art & craft projects such as cards, watercolor paintings, decorating boxes with collaged papers and more. Space is limited. 

Published Authors Group Exchange (PAGE)

This group is for AWN members to share our process of being a writer, getting published, doing promotion, and feelings of significant accomplishment. Open to published authors and those aspiring to be.​

Bring Your Own Coffee

An informal social conversation with fellow AWN members. 

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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. 

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We are an all-volunteer 501(c)3 organization with over 120 members. 

About Us

At times our members and friends have questions about who to talk to/get permission/assistance for a variety of things. Below are some guidelines. Note: AWN Members can look up contact information in our directory. Others may use the suggested processes at the bottom of this document.

There are many opportunities for you to engage as a volunteer to help support our organization and fellow members. Our website lists a variety of volunteer possibilities: www.arborwestneighbors.org/volunteer-possibilities

 

For questions about membership: Cecily Mango

For questions about ambassadors and member orientation: Kim Silver

For questions about our Membership Management System, Club Express: Cecily Mango or Susan Levin

For questions about Arbor Circles: Cindy Michul

For calendar additions or corrections: Gil Herman

For questions/suggestions about our newsletter, Branching Out: Allen Matthews

For website additions or corrections: Gil Herman

For questions about interest groups: Gil Herman or the coordinator of a specific group

For questions/suggestions about Programs: Catherine Marienau

For questions/suggestions about advocacy:

         Social Action Team: Ruth Reko

         Green Team: Phyllis Rubin or Kim Silver

         Legislative Action Team: Phyllis Rubin

         Other: Phyllis Rubin

For questions/suggestion about Community Outreach Working Group: coming soon

For questions/suggestions about what to send to Google group email: Gil Herman or Legislative Action Team (Phyllis Rubin)

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NOTE: From time to time, we hear about information that we believe would be of interest to our members and friends. When appropriate, we will send out a Public Service Announcement (PSA). We may also send a Call to Action email making a recommendation for action should you wish to do something. We will work to keep these minimally intrusive. If you have a question or comment, please contact the person or organization indicated. 

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