AARP Illinois

All the news that matters for Illinoisans over 50

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Sign the petition against the Nicor Gas hike!

The Illinois Commerce Commission is currently considering a proposal from Nicor that would raise customers’ water rates by $316 million. If approved, this would be the largest gas hike in history and customer rates are expected to rise by more than $90 a year.

AARP Community Challenge Winners Announced!

9 communities across Illinois are getting a boost in their work to become more livable for residents of all ages.

Don't Get Scammed! AARP Illinois Presents "Fraud Watch 101"

This crucial series will equip you with a solid understanding of how fraudsters operate, helping you identify and avoid suspicious communications before they can do any harm.

Volunteer with us at AARP Illinois!

Turn a lifetime of experience into the experience of a lifetime! Become and AARP IL volunteer and make a difference in your community.

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I Have Always Believed In Dreams

By Bruce Koeppl, SEP 18, 2013

Watching coverage of the 50th Anniversary Dr. King’s, “I have a dream speech” brought a flood of memories and reflection. I was 6 years old when Dr. King gave that speech. I was a long way from DC and a long way from understanding the significance of Dr. King’s speech. In 1963 I think I knew two African Americans and one Hispanic boy in school, my world was pretty homogenized. I did have some grasp of diversity because my folks were from Germany and my dad was the coach of a local soccer team. Through the team I met many families from all over Europe, Central and South America, Asia and Africa. On the weekends the team would gather to play the international game. Following the game the families would picnic together and share the common joy of the game and a few beers. Then we would retreat to our neighborhoods. Mine was mostly white and working middle class. The march on Washington did not become real for me until I grew older. The speech is seen as a moment that has shaped modern America; I know it shaped me even if I didn’t realize it at the time. I was always a dreamer and to this day believe in dreams. I think that’s what dreams are meant to do-- take us places.

If Only We Think We Can!

By Bruce Koeppl, SEP 12, 2013

In mid-August I celebrated 20 years working at AARP. Twenty years?! Really? On September 11 th I turned 56 years old. Wow. As I reflect on these milestones I realize I’m right smack dab in the middle of two groups that AARP is focused on. Age-wise I’m part of the Boomer generation. My generation has changed every American institution it has touched and now as a group we are changing how we age. As a worker, I have begun to feel the tugs of what’s next with my career - is there something else I want to do? Life Reimagined if you will?