The New Trier Township Podcast

Maribeth Stein Director of Older Adult Services for Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky shares essential information on Open Enrollment 2022, and more money saving tips for older adults. She visits with Jack Macholl on Episode 43 of the New Trier Township Podcast.

The Reverend, Doctor Scott Mitchell President & CEO of SamaCare, an Illinois-based 501c3 mental health counseling agency says it's "okay not to be OK." During Mental Health Awareness month, Dr. Mitchell shares his viewpoint on reversing the stigma associated with mental health counseling and the critical need to build public awareness. He also talks about the impact of COVID-19 on mental health in general, and what it will be like to acclimate to the office environment more than a year after the shutdown.

People with mental illness working remotely during the Coronavirus pandemic face additional challenges, missing social interaction with co-workers and customers. The isolation and uncertainty exacerbate mental health problems, making these conditions worse.

Christine Somervill Executive Director of Programs at the National Alliance on Mental Illness of North Suburban Cook County (NAMI) joins Jack Macholl to discuss their advocacy work supporting people facing mental illness.

The first call one makes for help takes courage, these words from Maureen McDonnell Executive Director of Peer Services, an Evanston Illinois based community substance abuse and prevention treatment services organization are heard in her interview with Jack Macholl on episode 40 of the New Trier Township Podcast. They discuss the global pandemic of 2020/21 and how this situation is impacting adolescents and young adults trying to cope with the problems created by substance abuse.

The pandemic of 2020 has added financial hardship to many families in New Trier Township. Some are now faced with a "heat or eat" decision. Melissa Versch of the North Shore Senior Center in Northfield Illinois speaks with Jack Macholl about the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

Maribeth Stein Outreach Coordinator/Constituent Advocate for Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky presented on the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug program as part of the New Trier Township Educational Forum series. The program was broadcast via Zoom on 10/22/20 due to gathering restrictions brought about by the pandemic.

Can a group of dedicated young journalists bring back a devoted local news outlet with a Kickstarter campaign and sweat equity? Find out how Joe Coughlin and his partners plan to launch The Record NS on episode 37 of the New Trier Township Podcast hosted by Jack Macholl.

As we enter month 5 of the COVID-19 pandemic, many sidelined workers are unable to make rent and mortgage payments. With special unemployment benefits expiring, the situation is dire. Nareen Kim, housing attorney shares her advice on maintaining the stability of ones residence.

Darrin Utynek, CEO of Bernie’s Book Bank, a Lake Bluff Illinois based non-profit shares how his team has transformed their process to provide books to at-risk children in spite of the Coronavirus shutdowns in Illinois. An inspiring story of innovation and dedication to reducing the reading readiness barrier is available on episode 35 of the New Trier Township Podcast hosted by Jack Macholl.

The spirit of volunteerism is alive and well in New Trier Township, and Barb Tubekis, Executive Director The Volunteer Center of NE Metro Chicago is the driving force behind many good works helping people. Want to volunteer while remaining safe from COVID-19? Barb shares many opportunities to help from your home or neighborhood on episode 34 of the New Trier Township Podcast hosted by Jack Macholl.