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History

OUR MISSION, VISION, AND VALUES REMAIN CONSTANT

After 45 years, our nonprofit remains robust in its mission as it was visionary in its purpose — providing critical services to help individuals remain independent contributors within their community.

Today, our operations, programs, and services are evolving to better respond to the emerging needs within our communities. Our team is expanding their knowledge, enhancing their skills, and placing priority on professional development to prepare and respond to the ever-evolving healthcare environment. In addition, a forward-thinking, strategic roadmap with an innovative approach helps to guide our work and measures our impact.

We are strengthening service delivery by involving and collaborating with not for profit and for-profit partners, civic groups, faith leaders, municipalities, and elected officials. We are leading the way as a convener of conversation and action to promote policies that create a healthier aging community by mobilizing neighbors and neighborhoods.

WE CHANGED OUR NAME IN 2021

Over time, we learned that the name we were founded with in 1975 (PLOWS Council on Aging) was oftentimes confusing and misleading. PLOWS, while an acronym for some of the Townships we serve, defined our geographic area, but failed to speak to our mission and critical comprehensive programs and services. In addition, “Council on Aging” gave the impression of being government run or owned. In 2021, we conducted a thoughtful process involving significant and diverse community feedback and announced a new brand name (Pathlights), logo, and visual identity that better reflects who we are and responds to our future.

The pandemic has been the greatest single challenge Pathlights has had to face, but at the same time it has reminded us of how important this nonprofit is to this community. When you can't have vitally important contact with people you find new ways and means to connect, and the organization has done exactly that. Pathlights always has the task to be aware and be alert and adapt to coming challenges. The future is being open to the possibility of changing ways and means of dealing with needs in our community.

— Rev. Glenn Bergmark
Retired board member after 30 years of service in the roles of President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

There are many ways you can contribute towards our cause, and every act of generosity goes a long way in helping us fulfill our mission. Please consider making a donation to keep our communities healthy.

Pathlights is a 501(c) (3), independent, charitable, human service organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent of the law. Tax ID: 36-2882809

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Funding for Pathlights’ programs provided in whole or in part by AgeOptions and federal and state government agencies, made possible through the Older Americans Act. Additional funding for services is provided by State of Illinois, Cook County, local municipalities, United Way of Metro Chicago, and other community partners and interested parties. Pathlights does not discriminate in admission to programs or treatment of employment in compliance with appropriate state and federal statutes. If you feel you have been discriminated against, call 708.361.0219.