New Park Ridge Senior Center manager aims to expand on predecessor’s successes

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Jennifer Elliott is the new manager of the Park Ridge Senior Center.

Updated: March 3, 2012 8:34AM

Edison Park native Jennifer Elliott is looking forward to bringing new programs and trips to the Park Ridge Senior Center as its newest manager.

Elliott was hired by the Park Ridge Recreation and Park District in mid-January following the retirement of longtime manager Teresa Grodsky.

“So far everybody’s been so kind and welcoming,” Elliott said. “I really look forward to working with the seniors in the community and continuing the quality of programming that has been offered here for so many years.”

Elliott, who holds a master’s degree in parks and recreation tourism and administration, said she would like to introduce more intergenerational programs at the Park Ridge Senior Center, giving grandparents and grandchildren more opportunities to take part in activities together. She also hopes to add some extended trips to the center’s itinerary.

Elliott acknowledges that stepping into a position held for three decades by her predecessor has its difficulties, but she hopes to maintain the framework Grodsky created.

“There’s always going to be challenges, but eventually I hope to continue what she had done and continue to improve on it,” she said.

These improvements include “constantly adding fresh programming.” Elliott said Senior Center members are welcome to provide her with suggestions by filling out a comment card at the center, 100 S. Western Ave.

Elliott previously held the role of supervisor of the Skokie Park District’s adult/teen programs for four years before joining Seven Bridges Ice Arena in Woodridge as its general manager.

“I really enjoyed working with seniors when I worked in Skokie, so when the opportunity (for manager of the Park Ridge Senior Center) became available, I applied for it,” she said.

Growing up in Edison Park, Elliott learned to ice skate at Oakton Ice Arena. Still an Edison Park resident, Elliott considers Park Ridge to be part of her hometown and believes it is “important for me to work and make an impact on the community in which I live.”