The Mather Hot Dogs & Harleys Event a Success

EVANSTON, IL – Mather, an 82-year-old not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating Ways to Age Well, is tapping into its rebellious side.

As part of a collaboration with LeadingAge, a national community of non-profit service providers and other mission-driven organizations serving older adults, Mather is using its creative strengths to enrich the LeadingAge Annual Meeting in Chicago in early November.

At the conference, the keynote presentation will be author Karen Walrond, who will be discussing her new book “Radiant Rebellion.” In her book, coming out Oct. 23, 2023, Walrond invites readers to consider: “What if aging is something to aspire to, not to dread? What if together we could forge a ‘radiant rebellion’ against the idea of aging as a season of decline?”

In support, residents at Mather’s senior living communities are painting leather jackets to the theme of “Radiant Rebellion.”

Mather residents are invited to read Walrond’s “Articles of Engagement” that defines “radiant rebellion,” and to then discuss her philosophy and reflect on rebel icons they have admired in their own lives.

Provided with leather jackets from LeadingAge, residents then painted, drew, and embellished the jackets, which will be auctioned to raise funds for future leaders in the field of aging. These leather jackets will be exhibited at the national conference in conjunction with the keynote.

HOT DOGS & HARLEYS

After painting the leather jackets, Mather also showcased the collection at a recent August event at The Mather in Evanston during a Hot Dogs & Harleys event.

The Enlightened Rydaz of Evanston, a not-for-profit motorcycle club that was established in 2011, also joined the event. The club engages in community improvement projects and gives back to others through mission-driven work. The Rydaz visited Burnham’s Patio at The Mather as part of a back-to-school fundraiser for local students.

The event featured motorcycles, Rock ‘n’ Roll music, a hot dog luncheon, a collection of leather jackets with original resident artwork, and an opportunity to add to the graffiti wall.