Our Aging Services Receives $20,000 Grant from Cigna Healthcare

Our Aging Services, a nonprofit organization committed to supporting seniors and individuals with intellectual disabilities, has secured a grant of $20,000 from Cigna Healthcare. This funding is part of Cigna’s Community Ambassador Fellows program, which aims to improve the health and well-being of residents in Illinois.

The grant application was submitted by Sarah Stephens, the Board Chairwoman of Our Aging Services and a long-time member of Cigna Healthcare with over 23 years of experience. Her successful application is expected to provide essential support to the nonprofit and its initiatives in the local community. “I have always had a passion for giving back to vulnerable populations,” Stephens stated. “I am both excited and grateful for the opportunity to share this achievement with Leslee Schafer and Megan Turner, co-founders of Our Aging Services.”

Founded in 2023, Our Aging Services is based in the Kankakee area, serving residents throughout Illinois. Schafer and Turner, both lifelong friends from Kankakee County, bring a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to their roles. Schafer has extensive expertise from the senior living and developmental disability sectors, while Turner specializes in transition planning for students aging out of the special education system. Their personal connections to the cause are profound, as both women are mothers of children with disabilities.

“Our passion is to share our knowledge and expertise with families facing similar challenges,” Schafer said. Turner added, “Our loved ones deserve a seat at the table. We’re here to support them in accessing the resources they need to live successful and purposeful lives. This grant will allow us to expand our footprint and reach those who need our support.”

In an effort to further engage with the community, Our Aging Services will host a Family Resource Fair on October 25, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kankakee Public Library. This event aims to connect families with vital resources and information, fostering a supportive environment for those navigating similar challenges.

The grant from Cigna Healthcare represents a significant step forward for Our Aging Services, enhancing their capacity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable populations in Illinois. The organization is poised to leverage this funding to expand its initiatives, ultimately fostering a stronger, more inclusive community.