ARLINGTON HEIGHTS PARK DISTRICT

presents By Ronald H. Dodd

Many programs have been established for Senior Citizens in community recreation agencies. Attention has focused on this age group because of fixed incomes, limited mobility and the need for assistance in their daily lives.

The Arlington Heights Park District recently developed a unique club for residents 65 years and over called the GOLD KEY CLUB. The GOLD KEY card entitles the holders to use all park facilities and programs held within the Park District absolutely free. The GOLD KEY does not apply to activities held outside of the Park District where a charge is involved; however, special discounts are offered whenever possible.

In addition to the age requirement persons applying for a GOLD KEY card must reside in the Arlington Heights Park District or be a member of the Over Fifty Club which meets weekly at Pioneer Park Community Center and be 65 years or older.

The GOLD KEY is a laminated 21/2" x 314" card with the person's name, address and signature of the Director of Parks and Recreation on the reverse side. The idea was promoted through the news media, Park District senior citizens club, churches and word of mouth. Within the first year over 150 senior citizens registered for their GOLD KEY.

Members of the Golden Key Club exercise in their swim class at Olympic Park Pool in Arlington Heights.

GOLD KEY activities currently include swimming, gourmet cooking, craft classes, with square dancing, golf and bowling in the planning stage. KEY holders can swim at the Olympic Park Indoor Swim Center each Monday evening from 6:30-7:30 p.m. This time is only for KEY holders and to date over two dozen regularly attend. Staff personnel work with individuals wishing instruction as well as acting as lifeguards. The saunas are also available for their use.

Gourmet cooking is conducted with the assistance of qualified leadership. The specialty of the week is served to those participating in the class. Key holders assist in chosing the menu, preparing the food, and serving. Classes are held once each week from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Craft classes are also held weekly and participants discover new and innovative ideas for seasonal craft ideas ranging from the Christmas Holidays, Valentine's Day, Easter and Thanksgiving.

These programs are in addition to the Park District Senior Citizen's Club which meets each Thursday and once monthly for a Saturday evening social. Transportation is provided for Club meetings through the cooperation of the Arlington Heights Rotary Club which pays the cost

Illinois Parks and Recreation 4 July/August, 1973

of transporting participants in one of the Park District buses. Transportation is provided for GOLD KEY activities, also. Prior to transporting Key holders, attendance was rather sparse. Once they were made aware of the free transportation participation has increased on a regular basis.

(Editor's note: Ronald H. Dodd is Superintendent of Recreation for the Arlington Heights Park District).

Illinois Parks and Recreation 5 July/August, 1973