On May 17, WDIO’s news anchor Maarja Anderson and cameraman Carl joined Birch Grove Community School’s second- through fifth-graders. The visit was sparked by a local radio program called “School News” which airs weekly on WTIP. Fontaine,which airs weekly on WTIP. Holly Sandefer has led a radio program initiative this year, and students all have practiced public speaking, annunciation, and comedic timing. Every one of the... READ MORE >
As our school year is drawing to a close, I am pleased to submit my first Education Today contribution. I believe “Technology—its impact on education” is a very important topic for us to consider. With my first six months as Birch Grove Community School director almost complete, I know firsthand the far-reaching impact technology has to our children. Technology shapes... READ MORE >
West End seniors have been busy volunteering this year. Volunteers were at the Lutsen 99er, at the Tofte Trek making breakfast pizzas, and at the Tofte 4th of July showcased their many talents. Organizing, community building, and fundraising skills helped Birch Grove Foundation survive one of the busiest two weeks of the year! Birch Grove Foundation’s 30th Anniversary Community Celebration... READ MORE >
We are enjoying a great summer in the West End. Our seniors have been busy this year volunteering, helping neighbors, and hosting family and friends. The Farm2Table Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) for 55+ is every Friday at 9:30 a.m. Shop local fresh produce on a donation basis. The Lutsen 99er kicks off our summer season. Look for volunteers wearing Zumba... READ MORE >
We celebrated Cinco de Mayo with a cultural celebration. We had four guest speakers this month and learned a great deal about Mexican Heritage, library services, the Northwoods Food Project, and Care Partners of Cook County. We also worked on a very important intergenerational art program. Two children were paired with a senior and found out what hands have done... READ MORE >
Birch Grove Foundation provides the west end of Cook County with a community, recreation and senior center. On July 23, 2015 we will begin a yearlong celebration of our 30th Anniversary: A Year to Remember. We hope you will take a tour or visit us very soon! We are very happy to announce our board of directors welcomed Ginny Cooley... READ MORE >
Many of you may recall the excitement of 2000 when Lisa Hoff, director of Birch Grove Foundation, was awarded a grant through the Northland Foundation. She approached the foundation seeking $6,000 to begin a program in the west end of Cook County called “Seniors Connect West.” In 2005, the program grew to partner with Cook County Council on Aging and... READ MORE >
Our West End seniors have been enjoying winter by increasing attendance at Go4Life fitness classes Monday and Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. and lunch Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. Go4Life is a National Institute of Aging and National Institute of Health program. It offers supportive educational material and focuses on balance, strength, endurance, and flexibility. I lead the classes and offer individual... READ MORE >
This month Senior Connect West hosted the West End Garden Club Luncheon. Thirty-four people received information about the foundation’s programs and services. We shared our vision of partnering with Northland Foundation’s Rural Aging Initiative through a grant. This year we look forward to transitioning our successful senior program to Cook County’s first rural nationally accredited senior center. This two-year project... READ MORE >
The Senior Connect West Christmas Party warmed the bellies of 20 people on Dec. 17. Santa’s little helper, Nancy Christenson, delivered the good news that everyone’s meal was courtesy of Grand Marais State Bank. Pam McDougall won a $100 Visa gift card in the Autumn Community Center incentive program. Over 140 participants took surveys, volunteered and attended events making them... READ MORE >
