Antioch Library to focus on wellness
Whether it's caring for aging parents, healing an aching back or worrying about how to keep the kids safe, health and safety are on the minds of many.
Sensing the increasing thirst for knowledge in these areas, the Antioch Public Library is hosting its first-ever "Community Wellness Week" starting Aug. 16.
Fifteen businesses and organizations ranging from the American Cancer Society to the Antioch Police Department will offer workshops, presentations and demonstrations focused on health and safety.
"This really comes from a public demand," said library public relations director Rebecca Jacobson. "Residents have expressed a high interest in health, fitness and safety issues in recent community surveys."
Jacobson said she's pleased with the variety of presenters, but is particularly excited about the "Internet Safety" program planned by the Illinois attorney general's office.
"It's a three-pronged approach. There will be a course for parents, teens and tweens," Jacobson said. "When those sessions are complete, the three groups come together for open discussion. This is important information."
Jacobson said it was easy to find people to participate in the new initiative. She believes local groups understand the importance of health and safety.
"The business community has really jumped on board," she said. "It's really snowballed."
With an aging baby boom population, Jacobson said, the library gets many calls for information about caring for older parents. In response, representatives from the Village at Victory Lakes in Lindenhurst will present "When Your Parent or Loved One Needs Assisted Living,"
The event culminates with a LifeSource Blood Drive, fingerprinting for kids by the Antioch Police Department, child safety seat checks by the Antioch Fire Department and a food drive to benefit Open Arms Mission.
The programs run daily through Aug. 22. For a detailed list of scheduled events, visit antiochdistrictlibrary.org or call (847) 395-0874
"The library has a tradition of community service," Jacobson said. "This is another example of that."