Thursday, July 02, 2026
July is Social Wellness Month, a time to recognize the importance of building meaningful relationships, fostering a sense of belonging, and strengthening the connections that help individuals and communities thrive. At AgeGuide, these values extend beyond a single month or observance. Creating opportunities for people to learn from one another, engage in meaningful dialogue, and build understanding is an important part of fostering inclusive, age-friendly communities where every older adult feels respected, valued, and supported.
Building Bridges Through Race Amity
One example of this commitment is AgeGuide’s continued support of Race Amity Day events organized by Illinois Citizens for Race Amity. Celebrated each June in communities across Illinois and officially recognized by Governor JB Pritzker, Race Amity Day encourages people of all backgrounds to move beyond tolerance by building genuine friendships, mutual understanding, and meaningful collaboration.
On June 6, AgeGuide Board Member Bette Lawrence-Water, who also serves on the Advisory Board of the National Center on Race Amity in Boston, emceed the Naperville 2026 Race Amity celebration at the Naperville Public Library, Nichols Branch.
Learning from Lived Experience
The event featured guest speaker Van Gilmer, Choral Director of the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette and a participant in the historic 1960 Woolworth’s sit-in and civil rights boycott. Now 83 years old, Mr. Gilmer shared powerful reflections on his experiences during the Civil Rights Movement, displaying photographs and artifacts that highlighted the courage and determination of those who helped shape history.
His message centered on hope, encouraging participants to continue building communities rooted in harmony, unity, and understanding. Attendees also enjoyed readings, music, a short film, refreshments, and opportunities to share their own experiences and hopes for the future.
Creating Communities of Belonging
Social wellness is strengthened through connection, respect, and shared experiences. By supporting opportunities for learning, dialogue, and relationship-building, AgeGuide continues working toward communities where older adults of every background feel welcomed, heard, and valued. Events like Race Amity Day remind us that fostering understanding and building meaningful relationships are ongoing efforts that help create stronger, more connected communities for all.
