Four graduate students from Dominican University’s School of Social Work created a series of senior-centered initiatives with residents of the Oak Park Arms Senior Living Community. Developed as part of a Community Practice course, the students created multiple programs to promote social connection, emotional well-being, and interaction.
The programs include:
- Grief and Loss Support Group – which provides a safe and supportive space for residents to process life transitions
- Social Luncheons – a twice-weekly lunch designed to encourage mingling and friendship-building over shared meals.
- Book Club – a monthly book club for thoughtful discussion and literary exploration.
The team of graduate students are pursuing a master’s degree in social work (MSW) at Dominican University in River Forest. Team members include Camille Gallo, Mayra Olivares, Jazmine Martinez, and Samantha Deuchler. Led by Oak Park Arms intern, Camille Gallo, the team of students developed and implemented the program over the last four months.
“Our goal was to design initiatives that reflect the interests and needs of residents while strengthening the sense of community within Oak Park Arms,” Gallo said. “It’s been incredible to witness the relationships forming.”
The team is currently planning a collaboration with the Huskie Helpers, a volunteer group from Oak Park and River Forest High School, with the goal of fostering intergenerational connection and shared community service projects.
“The partnership between Dominican University’s School of Social Work graduate students and our residents at Oak Park Arms has been truly inspiring,” said Moses Williams, executive director of the Oak Park Arms. “The thoughtful and resident-centered initiatives developed by Camille, Mayra, Jazmine, and Samantha have already fostered deeper connections and enhanced well-being within our community.
Oak Park Arms Senior Living is a rental retirement community that provides senior housing in the form of independent living. A licensed home care agency is onsite to provide support services for seniors. Furnished apartments are also available for a short-term stay – a weekend, a week, a month, or longer.
For more information call 708-386-4040.
