About the Levy Senior Center
Levy Senior Center City of Evanston Parks Recreation and Community Services Department 300 Dodge Avenue, Evanston IL 60202 Phone: 847.448.8250 Fax: 847.869.6183 www.cityofevanston.org/levy Email: levycenter@cityofevanston.org
Building Hours:
Monday – Friday: Saturday & Sunday:
Office Hours:
Monday – Friday: Saturday & Sunday:
7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 8:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
What do we offer?
Levy Center membership is open to adults age 55 years and older. Most programs for seniors are held weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Programs for all ages are held in the evening and on the weekends.
Interesting classes and programs:
Members participate in a wide variety of programs and classes in the recently-constructed awardwinning building. A few examples are: • Computer software and digital camera training • Health and wellness–low-impact aerobics to Pilates • Arts– wood carving, ceramics and jewelry making and piano lessons.
Improved health and wellness:
Membership in the new Fitness Room has proven to be a very popular option for seniors, while younger adults may purchase a Fitness Room pass valid in early mornings, evenings and weekends. Drop-in basketball is also available.
The Levy Senior Center was designed around an open courtyard in order to create a bright and close-to-nature feeling. The Hulda B. and Maurice L. Rothschild Enabling Garden in the central courtyard was made possible by a major grant from the Hulda B. and Maurice L. Rothschild Foundation. Some classes and special events are held in the courtyard, weather permitting.
Special interest activities:
The Levy Senior Center is home to two Senior Olympics basketball teams, the Evanston Chess Club and the “Grandparents Raising Grandkids” support group. The basketball teams have participated in state and national games.
A delightful place to gather:
The Levy Senior Center also may be the perfect site to hold your special event, whether it’s a birthday party, bridal or baby shower, bar or bat mitzvah, or wedding reception. The building is accessible for persons with a disability, has plenty of plenty of parking and is surrounded by the beauty of James Park. Several different room sizes are available for rental as well as including the courtyard garden, which is in bloom from spring through fall.
A connection to the past:
The Levy Senior Center has a rich history. In 1966, the City of Evanston provided the land while Joseph and Sarah Levy donated a building on Maple Avenue to serve as a student union. In 1970, Evanston Mayor Emery suggested converting the student union to a senior center as the senior citizen population was growing at that time. The Levy Family was in complete agreement. Programs for seniors were held at this facility for the next 30 years before it was decided that a new facility was necessary to adequately serve future generations of seniors. The current Levy Senior Center facility is located in the southeast corner of James Park; it was formally dedicated on July 21, 2002.
Public Art–Enabling Gardening
Public Art: Exterior of the building Two public art pieces created by artist Fred Nagelbach in 200 are located near the southwest corner of the Center: ACORNUCOPIA (relates to the budding form of a germinating seed):This is the larger vertical form. It represents a gigantic sprout, the destiny of an acorn, new growth, and the bud of an idea. MTUK (Potawatomie word for tree): This is the smaller form that stands bent and leafless. It is to orient the traveler and give direction. It suggests passage, travel commerce and community.
Hulda B. and Maurice L. Rothschild Garden
The Center’s beautiful courtyard garden is hidden from the outside of the building, but members have dramatic views of the changing landscape as they walk throughout the Center. The garden is also home to public art. These glass tile mosaics in the concrete planters depict flowers chosen for their beauty, color, variety, blooming cycles and healing properties. The initial set of mosaics was prepared by artist Ginny Sykes in 2004. A unique way to give a gift to the Levy Center is to fund one or more of these beautiful mosaic insets. Donors have the opportunity to work with Ginny Sykes to suggest, and possibly help design, the glass mosaic tile square. For information, please contact Christina Ferraro, Levy Center Manager.
Enabling Garden
This courtyard opens to the sky and provides shelter from the wind. This is an enabling garden that accommodates people’s physical and psychological needs.
There are many features to this serene and calming space.
• Rubberized multi-use area for low-impact fitness classes • Raised water feature that allows people in wheelchairs to reach the water from a wheelchair • Raised bed planters that enable users to garden while standing without bending • Accessible path with benches for sitting in the sun and shade • A herb garden with plants that can be harvested or used for cooking • An arbor and an architectural trellis • Butterfly, cutting, perennial and woodland gardens
Membership
Levy Senior Center Membership for Adults 55 years and better:
Membership is valid for one year from the date of purchase. An Evanston resident is located within the zip codes of 60201 and 60202. Evanston Resident Non Resident
$30 per year $50 per year
This membership allows you visiting privileges in the computer lab, library and game room. Members also receive admission to free programs and discounted rates on fee-based programs held at the Levy Center. A newsletter is mailed to members every two months.
Fitness Room Membership Fees:
An initial orientation is required prior to becoming a fitness room member. Levy member Evanston resident Non Resident
$10 per month or $115 per year $26 per month or $300 per year $32 per month or $350 per year
Hours:
The fitness room is available to people 55 years and older when the facility is open. The fitness room is available to anyone age 18–54 years during the following hours: Monday–Friday: 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Schedule All classes are FREE unless otherwise noted under Description. Please note that some classes are not provided on a weekly basis which are highlighted in bold. Monday
Time
Description
Art Class
9:00 a.m. - Noon
Painting, drawing, oils, watercolor. You must provide your own supplies.
Monday/Wednesday Club
10:00 a.m - 11:00 a.m
Current events discussion
Duplicate Bridge
Noon - 3:00 p.m.
Bring a partner
Tuesday Woodcarving
Time 9:00 a.m. - Noon
Exercise “with” Richard Simmons Drop – in Basketball Social Bridge Shower Singers
9:00 a.m - 10:00 a.m. Noon - 2:00 p.m. Noon - 3:00 p.m. Noon - 1:00 p.m.
Duplicate Bridge Social Bingo Legal Assistance
Noon - 3:00 p.m. 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m
Description Tools and materials are available for purchase. Work out with Richard Simmons’ DVD. Come shoot some hoops! Come as a foursome. A casual, social singing group. No experience is required. Bring a partner.
Roundtable Topics
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Wednesday Monday/Wednesday Club
Time 10:00 a.m - 11:30 a.m
Yesterday & Today
11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Drop – in Basketball Writer’s Workshop
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Mahjongg Drop-In
1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Evanston attorney Robert Pantoga offers free legal consults on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Please phone ahead to confirm availability. This group meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Description This social group conducts a business meeting followed by a program. An annual fee is charged. This is a current events discussion group. Come shoot some hoops! This group meets the second and fourth Wednesday of the month.
Schedule All classes are FREE unless otherwise noted under Description. Please note that some classes are not provided on a weekly basis which are highlighted in bold. Wednesday
Time
Exercise “with” Richard Simmons 9:00 a.m - 10:00 a.m.
Description Work out with Richard Simmons’ DVD.
Advanced French Conversation
9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Drop-In Basketball
11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Come shoot some hoops!
Social Worker
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
This free service is offered by North Shore Senior Center’s Evanston Office.
Senior Gay Men’s Support Group 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Line Dance Practice
2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
No experience is required.
Women’s Book Club
3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
This group meets the third Thursday of the month. Most of the book selections are provided by the Evanston Public Library.
Friday Open Crafts Rules of the Road
Time 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Description Sew pillows, baby quilts and more. This program is offered the fourth Friday every other month.
Bid Whist T.G.I.F. Club
12:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. .
Personal Growth Book Club
9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
This social club includes programs and bingo. An annual fee is charged. This group meets the second Friday of the month.
For seasonal and updated information, please refer to the Levy News, which is published bi-monthly, and the City of Evanston’s “Evanston Life” magazine, which is published three times a year. “Evanston Life” magazine lists all classes offered at the Levy Center, including computer, self-improvement, and health and wellness classes. All Levy Center classes are discounted for Levy Center members.
Programs
AARP Tax Assistance
AARP provides free income tax assistance from February until April each year at the Levy Center. Simple tax returns are prepared for those 55 years and older OR disabled, with an income of $40,000 or less. Trained volunteers prepare tax returns. Call ahead for an appointment.
AARP Defensive Driving
Some automobile insurance companies offer insurance discounts to people completing a classroom-based, state-approved driverimprovement course. Discounts may vary based on the participant’s age, driving record, and other factors, and all participants are encouraged to check with their insurance agent before completing the AARP Driver Safety course. This is an eight hour course over a two day period. It is offered from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on two Thursday mornings every other month. A fee is charged.
Computer Classes
All types of classes are available. Training is conducted by Computer Training & Support Services. Please stop by the office or pick up the most resent Evanston Life” magazine for an updated schedule of classes.
Computer Lab
The Computer Lab is open for Levy Center members when classes are not in session.
Evanston Benefit Card
One card makes several programs more accessible to seniors and allows cardholders to receive a discount at participating Evanston businesses. Residents may qualify for certain benefits in the community, such as: Subsidized Taxicab Program—special low-cost taxicab service to income eligible Evanston seniors over the age of 65, and residents with ambulatory disabilities. Qualifying disabilities include vision loss, mobility limitations and memory/cognitive loss. Vehicle Sticker Discount—discount on the City vehicle sticker price to Evanston income eligible seniors over the age of 65 and residents who qualify for the Illinois Benefit Access Program due to disability. The Illinois Benefit Access Program is an income eligible program is administered by the Illinois Department on Aging. Recreation Program Fee Assistance—discount on the eligible programs and activities offered through the City of Evanston Recreation Division to qualified Evanston residents based on family size and income. Yard Waste Stickers & Cart Discount—discount on the City yard waste stickers or yard waste cart to Evanston income-eligible seniors over the age of 65 and residents who qualify for the Illinois Benefit Access Program due to disability. The Illinois Benefit Access Program is an income eligible program is administered by the Illinois Department on Aging.
Programs
Handyman Program—The City of Evanston provides basic home maintenance repairs for incomeeligible seniors (age 65 and older) living in their own home, condo or apartment. There is either no charge or a minimal charge for supplies. Merchant Discounts—participating Evanston businesses are offering Evanston residents age 55 and older a discount based on their age alone. Cardholders may obtain a list of participating businesses. Discounts will vary and may include discounts such as 10% off on Wednesdays.
Library
The Center’s library is a lending library. Members also donate audio tapes, videotapes, CDs, and DVDs. Members borrow these items on the honor system. Volunteers assist the staff by re-shelving items and organizing donations.
Exercise/Health & Wellness
There are over 25 fitness classes offered per week at the Levy Center. Many members use the facility as a walking track during inclement weather. Did you know that if you walk our “circular” hallway 13 times, you will have traveled one mile? You can also log one mile by walking around our gym (Maple Room) 20 times! The Levy Center is located in beautiful James Park, which has ball fields, tennis courts, a playground, and a walking track. One circuit of the James Park walking path is ¾ of a mile.
Fitness Room
A free fitness room orientation is offered to all new fitness room members. Personal training is available for an additional fee.
Food Service
Lunches are served 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. weekdays at the Levy Center for $6 for those under age 60. There is a suggested donation of $4.25 for those age 60 years and older. Food and beverage vending machines also are on site.
Game Room
Pool tables are available to Levy Center members free of charge.
Gift Shop
The Gift Shop specializes in greeting cards and gift items. It is managed and operated by volunteers. Please call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Newsletter
Members receive a newsletter announcing special events, new trip opportunities, and general news of interest to members.
Programs
Recycling
The Levy Center is a recycling drop off site for batteries, light bulbs, cell phones, digital cameras, iPods, laptops, Wii, Xbox 360 game systems and holiday lights. The Center houses a Lions Club -sponsored collection box for old hearing aids and glasses (eye wear).
S.H.I.P.
The Senior Health Insurance Program (S.H.I.P.) is a free statewide health insurance counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers. SHIP is sponsored by the Illinois Department of Aging. S.H.I.P. volunteer counselors are trained by the Illinois Department of Aging to (1) educate consumers and answer questions about Medicare, Medicare Supplement, long term care insurance, Medicare HMOs, private fee-for-service and other health insurance; (2) organize and assist in filing Medicare and Medicare Supplement claims; and (3) analyze Medicare Supplement and long term care policies; (4) help with enrollment and review of benefits. S.H.I.P. is not affiliated with any insurance company. S.H.I.P. counselors do not sell or solicit any type of insurance. To schedule an appointment with S.H.I.P. counselors please call the Levy Center at 847.448.8250.
Snow Shoveling Assistance
This City of Evanston is happy to connect seniors and disabled people with volunteers willing to assist with snow shoveling. To request assistance please contact the Levy Center at 847.448.8250 or e-mail levycenter@cityofevanston.org.
The senior or disabled person or a family member will receive a list of available volunteers who are willing and able to assist whom they may contact for financial/scheduling arrangements once the liability wavier is signed (either physically or electronically). The form can be completed online or the completed form can be mailed to the Levy Center.
Trips
At least one trip per month is offered. Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a discounted fee for Levy Center members.
Transportation
The Levy Family donated a 22-passenger bus to shuttle members to and from the Center. The bus does not leave Evanston boundaries nor does it make door-to-door pick-ups or drop-offs. On Wednesdays and Thursdays seniors are driven to and from a major grocery store! Please call the Levy Center, 847.448.8250 to schedule a ride.
Programs
Public Transportation
To register for a fare card please present a valid government-issued picture identification card that verifies your age (drivers license, state ID card, alien registration card or passport). Your photo will be taken at no charge and an application must be completed. This information will be mailed to RTA for eligibility and you should receive your fare card permit in 6-8 weeks.
The ADA Paratransit Service is for riders whose disability or health condition may prevent them from using a fixed route service such as buses and “el” trains. This is a shared, curb to curb ride. Pace is responsible for operating all ADA Paratransit services in the six-county region, including those previously provided by the CTA. For more information about ADA Paratransit eligibility, call 312.663.HELP (4357 voice) or via TTY at 312.913.3122 or visit www.rtachicago.com/ infocenter/paratransit.asp
Volunteers
There is a bus stop right in front of the Levy Center. Please contact the transit agencies directly for an update of routes and schedules. The CTA’s customer service phone number is 1.888.YOURCTA or visit www.transitchicago.com; the RTA’s customer service phone number is 312.913.3110 or visit www.rtachicago.com
The Levy Senior Center is a designated RTA registration site to apply for your RTA Free or Reduced Fare Card! If you are aged 65 or older and are not enrolled in the Illinois Department on Aging’s Benefit Access Program, you are eligible for reduced fare. Seniors and people with disabilities who are enrolled in the Illinois Department on Aging’s Benefit Access Program are eligible to ride free on the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra and pace fixed-route services. To ride free, you must first qualify and be enrolled in the Illinois Benefit Access Program. This income eligible program is administered by the Illinois Department on Aging.
Over 100 volunteers assist with special events and the lunch program, serve on boards and committees, sort library books, file income taxes, shovel snow, explain health insurance, and maintain the garden and so much more. For current volunteer opportunities please visit www.volunteerevanston.com or contact the Levy Center 847.448.8250. Did you know residents may also purchase their beach season tokens, vehicle stickers and yard waste stickers at the Levy Center?