Local Heroes Day celebrated at Oak Trace Senior Living Community in Downers Grove

There's a saying: "Heroes are those who lend a hand when others are in need."

Downers Grove is fortunate to have many such heroes who work hard each day to serve the needs of older adults in the community. On Sept. 12, Oak Trace senior living community in Downers Grove held its first Local Heroes Day.

Dan Harrington, Executive Director of Oak Trace, said the event was a "chance to recognize some wonderful people." What he hopes will become an annual tradition pays homage to the many acts of heroism that occurred in our country on and after 9-11-2001. "Recognizing the police, fire, and other emergency responders of what occurred that day is legendary. Today is the opportunity to recognize not only our local police and fire departments but others who serve the community," he said. "We are very grateful for all of them."

Honored during the Heroes Day ceremony were Detective Dan Montanari from the Downers Grove Police Department, Public Education Specialist Dale Smith and Director of Social Services, Heather Lippe from the Fire Department, Angelica Rae, LSW and Michelle Wright RN Care Manager from Good Samaritan Hospital, and David Lopez from the maintenance department at Oak Trace. Each honoree is involved in programming, services, education, advocacy and care for older adults living in Downers Grove.

"We are so fortunate to have such dedicated heroes living amongst our Village," said Harrington.

Oak Trace Senior Living

Oak Trace senior living community in Downers Grove is set on more than 40 acres of landscaped grounds featuring gardens, walking paths, ponds and abundant greenspace. Oak Trace has private independent living apartments, as well as assisted living, memory care, skilled care and rehabilitation. The Life Care Community offers guaranteed lifelong care with predictable costs. Oak Trace is owned by Lifespace, a not-for-profit organization with more than 45 years of experience in senior living. To learn more about Oak Trace, visit www.OakTraceSeniorLiving.com.