About Illinois Pathways to Health
| 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. Launched in 2015 by AgeOptions—a nonprofit organization that has connected older adults and caregivers with vital resources since 1974—this initiative builds on decades of experience supporting independence and quality of life.
We’ve developed a strong, trusted network of healthcare providers, community organizations, and local leaders to deliver free, evidence-based health promotion programs that create lasting impact. Our workshops help individuals stay active, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of falls.
As a designated Community Care Hub, we also connect individuals to essential resources that influence overall health.
At the core of our work is the belief that everyone deserves access to high-quality health support—regardless of age, income, language, or zip code. We prioritize inclusive, accessible workshops designed to meet the unique needs of diverse communities, including rural and immigrant populations.
By improving access to health programs and empowering individuals with tools to take charge of their well-being, we’re building healthier, more resilient communities across Illinois.
Our Programs
Take Charge - Live Well
Prevent Falls
Caregiver Support
Our Mission
We 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 through education and support.
Integrity
Delivering evidence-based workshops with professionalism, care and trust.
Connectedness
Building strong relationships with individuals, communities, and partners.
How We Create Change
We do more than run workshops—we create pathways to healthier lives and stronger communities.
What We Offer:
✔ Chronic Disease Self-Management – Tools to manage diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, and more.
✔ Fall Prevention – Strength and balance exercises to reduce fall risks.
✔ Caregiver Support – Guidance and resources to reduce burnout.
✔ Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) – Screening and connecting individuals to food, housing, transportation, and financial resources that affect health outcomes.
How We Deliver:
✔ Evidence-based, research-backed programming
✔ In-person and virtual workshop options
✔ Multilingual access (English, Spanish, Chinese, and more)
✔ Most programs are available at no cost to participants
Our Role
As a recognized Community Care Hub, we connect individuals to the health and social services they need. We partner with healthcare providers, community organizations, and local leaders to:
🔷 Deliver evidence-based health promotion workshops.
🔷 Refer individuals to the social supports they need.
🔷 Collect and report data to measure our impact.
🔷 Strengthen collaboration between healthcare and community sectors.
Through these partnerships we're expanding our reach and delivering life-changing health programs across Illinois.
Who We Serve
We support a variety of individuals and organizations across Illinois:
🔷 Older Adults – Helping them stay active, manage health, and join a supportive community.
🔷 Caregivers – Providing support to those who care for loved ones.
🔷 Healthcare Providers and Plans – Connecting individuals with evidence-based programs.
🔷 Community-Based Organizations – Empowering communities to bring impactful programs to their neighborhoods.
Our focus is on ensuring everyone—regardless of location— has the tools to lead a healthier, more empowered life.
Our Impact
13,000+
Participants Empowered
900+
Workshops Delivered
300+
Trained Leaders
22+
Counties Reached
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.
Our network has successfully delivered 900+ workshops across Illinois, both in-person and virtually, making health promotion programs accessible statewide.
Our dedicated team of 300+ leaders are essential to the success of these programs, guiding participants and ensuring lasting impact.
We’ve served over 22 counties across the state, reaching both urban and rural populations.
Meet The Team
Robert Mapes
VP of Health Collaborations & Innovations
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Jaime Peña
Health Promotion Team Lead
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Taisha Selby
CHW Team Lead
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Joan Fox
Network Hub Operations Specialist
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Amanda M.
Health Promotion Data Systems Specialist
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Samantha Welton
Health Promotion Program Specialist
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Emily Bernard
Health Promotion Program Specialist
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Sharri Scott
Health Promotion Program Specialist
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Joy Parker
Health Promotion Program Specialist
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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.