Senior Services Of Will County Goes Into Bankruptcy, 'Position Our Organization For Long-Term Success'

(The following edited press release was sent to Joliet Patch on Tuesday night.)

JOLIET, IL — Senior Services Center of Will County has voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection as part of a strategic reorganization designed to stabilize operations, strengthen the organization’s financial foundation, and ensure the long-term sustainability of services for older adults throughout Will County.

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For more than 60 years, Senior Services Center of Will County has been committed to improving the quality of life for seniors through nutrition programs, supportive services, wellness initiatives, transportation assistance, and community engagement opportunities. Throughout this process, the organization remains focused on continuing critical services while restructuring its financial obligations.

“Chapter 11 provides us with the opportunity to reorganize, address financial challenges, and position our organization for long-term success,” said Shelia M. Pardo, CEO of Senior Services Center of Will County. “The decision to pursue Chapter 11 was not made lightly. A series of financial
challenges and external circumstances made reorganization unavoidable. By taking this step now, we are creating a path forward that protects services, strengthens operations,
and allows us to return our full attention to the mission that has guided this organization for more than 60 years. Most importantly, this process allows us to refocus on what matters most—serving seniors and helping them remain healthy, independent, and connected to their communities. We are grateful for the support of our clients, employees, volunteers,
donors, and community partners as we work to build a stronger and more sustainable organization for the future.”

The filing provides a structured path forward while allowing the organization to continue operations and maintain its commitment to the seniors it serves. Leadership is working
closely with legal and financial advisors to develop a reorganization plan that strengthens the organization’s future and ensures continued service to the community.

While difficult decisions have been made in recent months, the organization’s commitment to serving seniors remains unchanged. The reorganization process will allow Senior Services Center of Will County to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and dedicate resources where they have the greatest impact.

Senior Services Center of Will County will continue providing services throughout the Chapter 11 process

Senior Services Center of Will County will continue providing services throughout the Chapter 11 process and will share updates with stakeholders as appropriate.

Back in 2020, Patch reported that the Romeoville Village Board unanimously approved a $2 million dollar grant to the 501c3 non-profit Senior Services of Will County to assist Senior Services in purchasing and renovating the now-closed Target property at the Corner of Weber and Airport Roads. Senior Services, which already operates out of a Joliet location, means to turn the property into a massive Romeoville senior facility called The Ovation Center.

"We call it 'The Ovation Center' because we're applauding a life well-lived," Senior Services CEO Barry Kolanowski said at the time.

The Ovation Center was envisioned, Kolanowski explained, as both a place where seniors can receive day-to-day services such as tax preparation assistance and care coordination, but also as a social spot for banquets, dances and the like. Besides the funding that the non-profit already receives through federal aid and grants, Kolanowski said the Center will keep itself afloat by renting out space to senior-friendly businesses and functions and requesting that seniors making use of the Center's services pay a suggested donation.

It finally opened in 2024.

About Senior Services Center of Will County
For more than 60 years, Senior Services Center of Will County has provided programs and services that promote independence, dignity, health, and well-being for older adults
throughout Will County. The organization remains committed to supporting seniors and their families while building a stronger foundation for the future.