Monthly ‘Forever Young’ senior luncheon continues to see growth
The village of Round Lake Beach's “Forever Young” monthly senior luncheon continues to exceed expectations, providing local seniors with a welcoming place to connect, be entertained and learn.
Since launching the program in the summer of 2025, attendance has more than doubled. The first luncheon welcomed approximately 60 seniors, while the most recent event attracted more than 125 attendees, reflecting a growing demand for quality senior programming throughout the region.
The free monthly program begins with a guest check-in, followed by welcoming remarks and community announcements from Round Lake Beach Mayor Scott Nickles. After lunch is served, attendees enjoy live entertainment, educational presentations, or guest speakers selected to provide engaging and meaningful experiences.
Organizers credit the program's success to a slick combination of quality entertainment, informative speakers, a warm social atmosphere, positive word-of-mouth, and ongoing promotion through social media, flyers, the village website, and community partners.
“Seeing Forever Young grow has been incredibly rewarding, but the best part is when seniors personally thank me and share how much the program means to them,” said Berenice Perez DesBiens, the civic center facility operation coordinator. “Knowing we've created a place where they feel welcomed and seen makes it all worthwhile.”
Programming is developed throughout the year based on attendee feedback, seasonal themes, local partnerships, and new entertainment opportunities. This ensures every event offers something unique, DesBiens said.
“Watching attendance at this event double over the past year has been amazing,” Mayor Nickles said. “When we started the program, we never expected it to grow as fast as it has. We are just thrilled with the way it’s turned out.”
The program is made possible through the generosity of local businesses and community sponsors who provide donations and discounts, allowing the village to continue offering the luncheons at no cost to participants.
Photos from previous Forever Young luncheons are available on the Round Lake Beach Cultural & Civic Center Facebook page at facebook.com/RLBCC.
Bingo with the Round Lake Area Park District will be the main event at the next luncheon, scheduled for Thursday, July 16, at the Round Lake Beach Cultural & Civic Center, 2007 Civic Center Way. The event is free but people are asked to preregister by emailing the civic center at rlbeachcenter@roundlakebeachil.gov or calling the civic center at (847) 201-9032