The Center of Concern, a Des Plaines-based nonprofit organization, named the Park Ridge Public Library its Partner of the Year at its annual Fight the Loneliness Epidemic event on Monday, September 9, at the historic Des Plaines Theatre. Programming Librarian Sarah Vessalo, Library Director Joanna Bertucci and Adult Services Manager Laura Scott accepted the award on behalf of the Library.
The Library was recognized for its programs to help combat loneliness and encourage social interaction with other seniors in the community. The Center of Concern cited events like the Library’s monthly Wits Workout program, where seniors can boost cognitive function and memory while reconnecting with other community members over brain puzzles and discussion starters. Funding for this program was made possible through a gift from the 20th Century Club.
The Center of Concern works to inform, advocate and intervene on behalf of residents struggling with challenges related to aging, homelessness, and accessing resources to remain independent in their homes.
Three individuals were also recognized at the event for their work for the organization and in the community. Award recipients included Volunteer of the Year, Doug Neuman of Des Plaines; Dee Heinrich Award, Kevin Gau of Rosemont; and Excellence in Leadership, Pastor Aneel Trivedi from Messiah Lutheran Church in Park Ridge.
More information about the Center of Concern or this special event can be found online at centerofconcern.org or at 847-823-0453.
