Defining Livable Communities: What Makes a Place Home?

Bill Armbruster, AARP Livable Communities

What makes a community truly livable for people of every age, ability, and stage of life? In this engaging keynote, Bill Armbruster of AARP Livable Communities explores the essential ingredients that help neighborhoods thrive today and into the future. Drawing on AARP’s nationally recognized framework, Armbruster will introduce the eight domains of livability and show how they shape inclusive, vibrant, and age-friendly communities.

A State for All Ages: A Roadmap for Livability in Illinois

Mary Killough, Illinois Department on Aging, Michelle Hoersch, Illinois Department on Aging, Christine Haley, Chief of the Illinois Office to Prevent and End Homelessness

Creating a truly livable Illinois requires policies that support us at every age, from youth through later life. By 2035, adults aged 65 and older will make up nearly a quarter of the state's population. Meeting this moment requires a unified, multi-sector approach to community development, housing infrastructure, and financial security that benefits all generations. This session will showcase the roadmaps needed to build inclusive, age-friendly environments across Illinois.

Lifelong Neighbors: Cultivating Livable Communities for Longevity

Lore Baker, CEO, Association for Individual Development, Nicole Murray, CEO, Will-Grundy Habitat for Humanity & Neil James, Executive Director, Metropolitan Mayors Caucus

This panel highlights practical, local strategies to help residents remain in their communities as they age. Hear from municipal and local leaders on planning for shifting housing needs, expanding “missing middle” housing options, and effective home repair programs that support safety and independence.

From Ideas to Impact: Co-Creating Livable Communities

In this interactive small-group discussion, participants will explore how state and regional strategies translate to real community needs. Building on the state and regional trends, needs, and solutions presented earlier in the day, each table will identify local challenges and generate practical, hyper-local solutions grounded in the livable communities framework. The session will conclude with a brief report-out, highlighting key ideas and actionable steps to drive impact at the local level.

Future Ready Neighborhoods: How do We Get There?

Bill Armburster, AARP Livable Communities, Mary Killough, Director, Illinois Department on Aging & Neil James, Executive Director, Metropolitan Mayors Caucus

End the day with an energizing conversation that brings fresh perspective to the future of our neighborhoods. This session will blend insights and bold ideas about what it takes to build communities where people of every age can truly thrive. The panel will translate a big picture vision of housing, connection, and belonging into practical, actionable ways to bring neighbors together and strengthen mutual support.