Introducing Older is Bolder™, Mather's latest initiative continuing our vision to change the way society views aging. Through a dynamic mobile art installation across Chicago, we feature Boldmakers, hometown neighbors who unapologetically and joyfully embrace growing bolder.
Join us in this transformative journey.
Positive views on aging can add an average of 7.5 years to your life.
Age: A Bold Opportunity
Meet The BOLDmakers:
Inspiring Lives, Unforgettable Stories
Discover the potential of aging boldly.
What does bold mean to you?
Bold means something different to everyone; choose the words that best describe how you live boldly.
- Inspired
- Strong
- Impact
- Empowered
- Fun
- Limitless
- Brave
- Radiant
- Wonder
- Curious
- Dynamic
- Adaptable
- Tenacious
- Hopeful
- Fearless
- Vision
- Compassionate
- Unstoppable
- Spirited
- Thrills
- Loyal
- Caring
- Vibrant
- Voice
- Heart
- Resilient
- Vibes
- Purpose
- Courage
- Loud
- Fierce
- Creative
- Determined
Community Programs
We are proud to offer free opportunities for adults 55 and better so they can Age Well wherever they live. Whether you’re looking to connect locally at neighborhood events in Chicago, or explore new topics virtually from home, every Mather program is complimentary, easy to join, and provides helpful resources. The only decision left is when to start.
Explore Free Programs


Through his passion for leading choirs at Stroger Hospital and area churches, Deacon Ross uplifts others with music and mentorship—transforming lives and demonstrating that faith and love can turn challenges into hope. He is a true Boldmaker, lending his voice to our vision of transforming the way society views aging. #OlderIsBolder ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
Seen in Chicago's busy Roosevelt Street CTA station! Our Boldmakers have taken over the station, sending a powerful message: It's time to embrace your age. Energy and positivity are contagious. And Older IS Bolder. #OlderIsBolder ... See MoreSee Less
19 CommentsComment on Facebook
Ms. Morgan has brought educational opportunities to generations and is passionate about ensuring young people have access to the arts. She was pivotal in transforming a dilapidated auditorium in Austin into the thriving Kehrein Center for the Arts, uplifting her community in lasting ways. She is a positive force to drive the conversation on aging forward. #OlderIsBolder ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
Whether uplifting the need in STEM fields for Black, Indigenous and People of Color and women, challenging norms in sports reporting, dancing with friends, or serving her community, Gail is living proof that fearless energy and passion keep life thrilling. Her story encourages people to look beyond age, embrace growing older, and appreciate the impactful lives of older adults. #OlderIsBolder ... See MoreSee Less
8 CommentsComment on Facebook
A lifelong Chicagoan, Ms. Silver is a dedicated volunteer with the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum’s Community Conservation Corps. She champions urban farming and wellness—and demonstrates that joy, health, and connection can thrive at every age. She is helping to transform the way people view aging, with BOLD FUN. #OlderIsBolder ... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
October 9 is Ageism Awareness Day, and we’re spreading awareness of this day as our vision is to change the way society view aging. With that vision in mind, we launched Older Is Bolder last month, a mobile art installation encouraging everyone to look beyond age, embrace growing older, and appreciate the impactful lives of older adults. See portraits and stories of 10 Chicagoland Boldmakers and learn more at OlderIsBolder.com. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Kaneko is redefining aging with joy, courage, and strength. She is a natural Boldmaker, and is among the Chicagoans who are helping us change the way society views aging. #OlderIsBolder ... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
A librarian turned artist, Sydnye has embraced urban sketching and lifelong learning, proving creativity and curiosity have no age limit. She thrives on Chicago’s vibrancy and countless educational avenues, inspiring others to see the world around them with fresh eyes. And now she is also a Boldmaker—joining us in transforming the way society views aging. #OlderIsBolder ... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
As an accomplished athlete, Jason is creating a lasting impact across generations by empowering people of all ages to model his commitment to wellness and achievement through GOlympians. His passion for history fuels his desire to shape a promising future for the youth he inspires. Jason is one of the Boldmakers who, alongside us, is changing the way society views aging. #OlderIsBolder
GOlympians Track ... See MoreSee Less
15 CommentsComment on Facebook