About Illinois Pathways to Health 

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Take Charge - Live Well

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Prevent Falls

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Caregiver Support

| Who We Are

IL Pathways to Health, an initiative of AgeOptions, is dedicated to improving the well-being of older adults and individuals with disabilities across Illinois. Since 2015, we have connected communities with evidence-based health programs that create real, lasting change.

As a statewide Community Care Hub, we partner with healthcare providers, community organizations, and local leaders to deliver accessible, effective health education where it's needed most. Our health promotion workshops help individuals take charge of their health through:

Chronic Disease Self-Management – Practical strategies for managing health conditions.

Fall Prevention – Strength and balance exercises to reduce fall risks.

Caregiver Support – Guidance and resources to ease stress and prevent burnout.

Our Mission

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

Our 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:

✔ Foster clinical-community partnerships

✔ Bridge gaps in public health and prevention strategies

✔ Empower individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to improve their health and well-being

Our Values

Commitment

Dedicated to improving health outcomes and supporting individuals on their wellness journey.

Integrity

Upholding the highest standards of transparency, ethics, and accountability.

Connectedness

Building strong relationships with individuals, communities, and partners for lasting impact.

Who We Serve

✔ Older Adults & Caregivers – Stay active, manage health, and join a supportive community.

✔ Healthcare Providers – Enhance care by referring individuals to evidence-based programs.

✔ Organizations & Community Partners – Host workshops or collaborate with us as a delivery partner.

 What We Offer

✔ Evidence-Based Programs – Proven to improve health outcomes.

✔ Flexible Options – In-person and virtual workshops.

✔ Supportive Environment – Ongoing support for leaders and participants.

✔ Multi-Language Access – English, Spanish, Chinese and more.

✔ No Cost to Participants – Many workshops are grant-funded and free.

✔ Partnership Opportunities – Expanding health initiatives statewide.

Our Impact

13,000+ Participants

Since 2015, over 13,000 individuals have taken part in our evidence-based health programs, empowering them to take charge of their health and well-being.

900+ Workshops Delivered

Our network has successfully delivered 900+ workshops across Illinois, both in-person and virtually, making health promotion programs accessible statewide.

300+ Trained Leaders

Our dedicated leaders are essential to the success of these programs, guiding participants and ensuring lasting impact.

22+ Counties Served

We’ve served over 22 counties across the state, reaching both urban and rural populations.

Our Commitment & Partnerships

IL Pathways to Health operates through a collaborative network of community organizations, healthcare providers, class leaders, and funding partners. These partnerships ensure that our programs are high-quality, well-coordinated, and locally delivered.

As we continue to grow, we remain committed to:

Expanding partnerships to reach those in need.

Strengthening collaborations with healthcare systems and community organizations.

Delivering life-changing health promotion programs to individuals statewide

Meet Our Team

Contact Rob Mapes

Robert Mapes
VP of Health Collaborations & Innovations
Email

Contact Jaime Pena

Jaime Peña
Health Promotion Team Lead
Email

Contact Taisha Shelby

Taisha Selby
CHW Team Lead
Email

Contact Amanda M.

Amanda M.
Health Promotion Data Systems Specialist
Email

Contact Joan Fox

Joan Fox
Network Hub Operations Specialist
Email

Contact Samantha Welton

Samantha Welton
Health Promotion Program Specialist
Email

Contact Emily Bernard

Emily Bernard
Health Promotion Program Specialist
Email

Contact Sharri Scott

Sharri Scott
Health Promotion Program Specialist
Email

Contact Joy Parker

Joy Parker
Health Promotion Program Specialist
Email

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.