November 2025: Gratitude, Caregiving, and the Power of Giving
A NOTE FROM BACOA’S DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
As we enter November, a season often centered on gratitude and giving, I’m reminded that the heart of Bacoa’s work beats strongest through the compassion we see in others, especially in caregivers.
November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to honor those who selflessly care for aging loved ones, often balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities. Their quiet strength and dedication embody what it means to give, not only financially, but through time, patience, and love.
At Bacoa, we see how giving in all its forms transforms lives. It’s the volunteer who delivers a meal with a smile, the donor who helps fund respite care, and the caregiver who offers comfort during difficult moments. Each act, big or small, helps older adults and families feel supported, valued, and less alone.
In the spirit of gratitude and community, your generosity helps sustain programs that bring hope and connection to others. Together, we make aging something to celebrate, not to face alone.
Warmly,
Jimi Psarakis
Director of Development, Bacoa
Medicare Appointments Filling Fast
Now Scheduling Medicare Part D Appointments
If you would like to review, enroll in, or change your plan, call Bacoa at (847) 381-5030 to set up a free consultation.
Bacoa recommends that you review your Medicare prescription drug plan annually because plans make changes to benefits and costs, as well as offer new plans. With these different changes, your current plan might not be the best fit for you in 2026.
Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) Open Enrollment Begins October 15th – December 7th.
Virtual Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group
“Say Yes to the Best Holiday Present by Saying No”
Wednesday, November 12, 2025 | 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
A supportive space for families and caregivers of people living withAlzheimer’s Disease and related dementias. Join us in a judgment-free environment to share the daily triumphs and challenges of caregiving.
This Session: Say Yes to the Best Holiday Present by Saying No! The holidays can bring joy — but also added pressure, especially for caregivers who feel the weight of making every moment perfect.
This November, join Denise M. Brown, nationally recognized caregiving expert, for an uplifting and interactive workshop designed to help caregivers create a more peaceful, meaningful holiday season.
In this session, Denise will guide participants in discovering how saying “no” can be a gift in itself — opening space for what truly matters. Together, you’ll set three intentional goals for the holidays and learn practical strategies to protect your energy and joy by focusing on your personal “yes’s” and “no’s.”
About the Speaker: Denise M. Brown
Denise M. Brown has been a leading voice in caregiver support for more than 30 years. She is the founder of The Caregiving Years Training Academy, helping individuals and professionals navigate the challenges of caregiving with compassion and purpose. Denise has been recognized as a Next Avenue Influencer in Aging and has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and USA Today.
Her work focuses on helping caregivers find hope, balance, and resilience. Denise also draws on her personal caregiving experience, making her presentations both heartfelt and practical.
For More Information, Please Contact:
Pam Pellizzari
Memory Programs Manager
BA | Concentrations in Education, Communications & Gerontology |Certified Dementia Practitioner |Certified Montessori Dementia Care Professional | AFA Dementia Care Partner | Dementia Care Certified
Phone: 847-881-0477
Email: [email protected]
Bacoa Calendar: See Events
Youth Leadership in Action: A Heart for Caregivers
The Bacoa Youth Leadership Board (YLB) was hard at work during their October meeting, assembling heartfelt gifts for caregivers in honor of National Family Caregivers Month. Their creativity and compassion shone through in every detail — a thoughtful reminder to caregivers that their dedication and love do not go unnoticed.
Meeting monthly, the YouthLeadership Board brings together students who are eager to learn about service, leadership, and the many ways they can make a positive difference in the lives of
older adults. Through their projects, these young leaders gain a deeper understanding of empathy, respect, and the value of giving back — lessons that reach far beyond the walls of Bacoa.
Volunteers like our YouthLeadership Board are at the heart of Bacoa’s mission.
Whether it’s helping at a community event, delivering meals, or brightening someone’s day with a simple act of kindness, volunteers make it possible for us to serve older adults with compassion and connection.
Their dedication reminds us why Bacoa is so special — it’s a place where generations come together to learn, give, and grow. We aredeeply grateful to our YouthLeadership Board members forthe time, energy, and care theypour into everything they do. They are helping to shape a future rooted in kindness, community, and purpose.
Thank you, Bacoa YouthLeadership Board, for leading with heart and showing us all what it means to make a difference.
Cuisine Club: Connections Served Monthly
Whether it’s pizza, pasta, or sushi, Bacoa’s Cuisine Club proves that good food tastes even better when shared with friends.
Over the past few months, members have dined at some of our favorite local spots — Georgio’s, Shakou, Demetri’s, and Ciao Baby! — where laughter filled the air and unforgettable stories were shared. From a retired Admiral who served 27 years and toured in Iraq, to former business owners, entertainers, and everyday neighbors with rich life experiences, each table has been filled with wisdom, warmth, and community.
More than just a monthly lunch, Bacoa’s Cuisine Club is a celebration of connection, joy, and belonging. For many participants, it’s not just about the meal — it’s about staying social, building new friendships, and creating lasting memories together.
A heartfelt thank you to the wonderful teams at each restaurant for their warm hospitality and support in helping us bring people together through great food and even greater company.
Next Stop: Chessie’s Restaurant
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Interested in joining the fun? Discover new flavors, new friends, and plenty of laughter with Bacoa’s Cuisine Club!
Active Aging Cultural Outings: Connection Through Shared Experiences
Sunshine, Lunch, and Grease!
What a perfect day in Arlington Heights — good friends, great food, and the timeless musical Grease at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre.
This outing was part of Bacoa’s Active Aging Cultural Outings, one of our most joyful programs. Each month, participants set out together to explore art, music, theater, and culture across Chicagoland — discovering new places, sharing laughter, and strengthening friendships along the way.
Trips like these remind us that staying active and socially connected can make all the difference. Whether it’s the excitement of a live show or simply enjoying lunch together, every experience creates moments of joy, belonging, and connection.
For many participants, these outings are more than just a day out — they’re a chance to feel part of something special.
Please Contact:
Janine O’LearyActive Program Manager
Master’s in Education | Trained Facilitator for Dementia Live | Speaks American Sign Language
Phone: 847-881-0473
Email: [email protected]
Bacoa Calendar: See Events
Halloween Lunch and Bingo: A Spook-tacular Celebration!
Our Halloween Lunch and Bingo was filled with laughter, costumes, and community spirit! Guests enjoyed a delicious seasonal meal, lively entertainment, and plenty of friendly competition during several rounds of bingo.
The room was buzzing with energy as everyone joined in on the fun, proving once again that you’re never too old to celebrate Halloween in style.
Events like this truly highlight the heart of Bacoa’s Programs, creating joyful moments, new friendships, and memories that lift spirits long after the day is done. None of it would be possible without our wonderful volunteers, whose creativity, enthusiasm, and kindness help make every gathering so special.
A heartfelt thank you to all who joined us and to our amazing volunteers who bring warmth and connection to Bacoa every single day!
Trip to The Walnut Room
November 25 @ 9:30 am – November 25 @ 5:00 pmTake a trip downtown, do a bit of shopping, and enjoy lunch under the amazing tree.
Contact Janine to reserve a spot.
Transportation and lunch included.
$85Janine O’Leary 847-881-0473
Metropolis Theater – “Home for the Holidays” with Levi Kreis and Lunch
December 3 @ 12:00 pm – December 3 @ 5:00 pmExperience an unforgettable evening as Tony Award Winner Levi Kreis presents the 11th Annual Home for The Holidays Tour. A seamless blend of jazz, soul and rockabilly, Levi gives a fresh and unique perspective to a flawless collection of Christmas classics and holiday favorites.
Transportation to Arlington Heights for lunch and then the show at the Metropolis Theater
$70Janine O’Leary 847-881-0473
