Briel to Host ‘Council of Wise Elders’ on Feb. 23, Highlighting Senior Volunteer Program

OTTAWA, Ill. — State Rep. Amy “Murri” Briel, D-Ottawa, is collaborating with Tri-County Opportunities to host a Council of Wise Elders meeting on Monday, Feb. 23 from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. to highlight the Foster Grandparents Program, a volunteer service that keeps older adults connected to the community. 

“The Council of Wise Elders is a fantastic way to meet other older adults around our community and educate ourselves on resources, tools and how we can advocate for better policy on aging adults—whether that’s affordable healthcare or other cost savings measures,” said Briel. “Staying connected and active in the community is especially important for us to stay physically, mentally and emotionally strong. That’s why this first meeting of 2026 will center on a new, local volunteer program that can uplift both young ones and older adults right here in our community.”

Representatives from Tri-County Opportunities will present information on the Foster Grandparents Program, a volunteer service for residents 55 years and older to provide emotional and educational support to children in classrooms around Bureau, Caroll, LaSalle, Lee, Marshall, Ogle, Putnam, Stark and Whiteside counties. 

“The Council of Wise Elders was first formed last year, and I look forward to starting 2026 off strong with our neighbors’ diverse ideas on how we can make life better for aging adults,” said Briel. “I’m especially eager to hear more about how we can use our life experiences to uplift younger generations, stay connected and give back to the community we’ve called home for so long.”

The council meeting will be held at Briel’s district office located at 628 Columbus St., Suite 408, in Ottawa. Anyone over the age of 60 who is interested in learning about hyperlocal policy and issues is encouraged to join. For more information, you can call or text Briel’s district office at 815-587-7912, or reach out to contact@staterepbriel.com.