Parade Planned To Support Elderly Residents Across Woodstock

WOODSTOCK, IL — Community members are invited to take part in a special initiative Thursday in support of the elderly residing in Woodstock. According to a news release sent to Patch, Heritage Vice President of Skilled Nursing Operations and Executive Director of Hearthstone Communities, Jeremy Rutter, and the Rotary Club of Woodstock, will support area seniors in Woodstock Thursday by hosting the "Showing Your Love Parade.” According to the news release, the organizers shared that the parade will not be open for public spectators to gather together outside, but is intended for seniors to view from their windows or porches as it drives by, in order to abide by all social distancing and safety guidelines.

“Our seniors are one of our most vulnerable populations during this uncertain time," Rutter said, in the news release. "As a senior living provider, we understand how easy it is for them to feel lonely or isolated from their loved ones, and want to find a way to be a part of a community event that lets them know we are thinking about ALL seniors during this time."

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All participants interested in taking part in the parade must meet at the staging area at the McHenry County Courthouse, 2200 North Seminary Avenue in Woodstock, at 1:45 p.m. Thursday (May 7). According to the news release, an organizing member of the event will direct all participants to their location in the parade.

Organizers said that for safety, all participants must remain in their enclosed vehicle, and not gather outside of vehicles.

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Parade route:

The parade will start on Route 47 and proceed south past Independence Health and Therapy, Hearthstone Communities, and CrossRoads Care Center. The route will then continue south on Route 47, turn west on Lake Avenue to pass Walden Oaks Apartments, travel west on South Street, then north on Dean Street, and make one lap around The Historic Woodstock Square before dispersing.

Those with questions regarding participating in the parade may call Kerry at 815-321-4055, according to the news release.

"We are honored to work with the Rotary Club to develop this socially distanced celebration to brighten the day for anyone who may need it, and let seniors know how much the community of Woodstock appreciates them," Rutter added, in the news release. "We are grateful to the many organizations supporting this endeavor, such as the Woodstock Police Department, the Woodstock Fire Department, the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce, the City of Woodstock, Blackhawk Area Council BSA, Woodstock Independent Riders, McHenry County Sheriff's Office, Schwartz Performance, and numerous others."

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