To help these individuals, Care Partners of Cook County organizes Fall Chore Days, which ensure that no person faces the winter unprepared or alone. This year, the event will take place on October 24th and 25th. It is a tradition rooted in care, with Care Partners having provided these services since 2016. Aimed to help people 60 years of age and older, Chore Days originated as one-off acts of service that expanded over time. At its core, it’s a simple idea—gathering volunteers to help their neighbors—and it has since grown into a cherished annual event. 

“It is deep in Cook County to look out for your neighbor. It is part of who we are,” said Program Coordinator Minda Andrus. “This event was a natural evolution and response from church groups, high school and youth groups, and families looking for a way to pitch in.”

Now, the event is held in both Spring and Fall and gives people an opportunity to band together. For older residents, the assistance isn’t just about practicality. One participant shared how the extra help around their house gave them confidence and the time to continue acting as a caregiver for their spouse.

“With help, I can do a much better job as a caregiver,” they said.

The way the Chore Days function is that volunteers get matched with households based on their respective needs. Program coordinators spend immense time figuring out what chores are needed, what the volunteers feel comfortable doing, and the best way to make pairs that are both efficient and meaningful. This work could range from everything from moving patio furniture, preparing soil and gardens, or even washing windows.

“Every request is unique, so this isn’t a comprehensive list,” Andrus explained. “But those are the types of chores people can expect.”

It is a very low barrier way to help out with a commitment of just two hours at a time. They are a very accessible way to volunteer for larger civic organizations, faith groups, and even just busy families who want to contribute at a more infrequent level.

“Anyone who is interested in helping an older neighbor get their home ready for the winter is welcome to volunteer,” Andrus said. “It’s a great opportunity for volunteering without ongoing commitments.”

This lack of rigid scheduling and commitments is part of what keeps the program alive. This flexibility allows for anyone interested to participate. Larger groups can view it as community outreach, and families find that just the simple act of working together is bonding time and a great way to teach their children about the importance of giving back. 

It truly is more than just yardwork, because the real importance of it lies in the formation of relationships. Andrus reflected on a particular instance where National Honor Society students were helping out a local resident and ended up forming a special bond.

“The neighbor was so impressed and delighted by their hard work that they offered students to come back anytime to use their cones on the lake,” she said. “The neighbor was very engaged with the group, asking about their plans for after graduation.”

For her, instances like that are evidence of how the program is about more than just raking up leaves and washing a window or two. “Often, what I witness during these events is that it gives both volunteers and older neighbors a sense of connection and gratitude,” she explained. “That’s what makes the Chore Days special.”

As winters get colder and longer, the need for these services only grows. A significant number of older residents live alone or very remotely, and this makes them vulnerable to falling behind on chores and upkeep. Without help, their homes become less safe and more isolating. Simultaneously, strong communities are always trying to find ways to strengthen bonds. Chore Days can help bridge generational gaps and, for only a couple of hours of work, reward everyone with the values of kindness and generosity. 

For adults looking to utilize these resources, registration is simple, but it must be done by October 10. You can call Care Partners at 218-387-3788 (Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.), email [email protected], or sign up online at carepartnersofcookcounty.org.

Volunteers should use the same contacts to keep the system organized and unified. From there, staff will match requests based on location, timing, and form of chores. Care Partners is very serious about safety precautions as well. No projects are allowed to involve carpentry, chemicals, high ladders, or other potentially unsafe tasks. 

“We want to make sure volunteers and older adults feel comfortable and protected,” Andrus said.

Overall, Chore Days are a reflection of the best tenets of Cook County. It is an embodiment of the spirit of community—where neighbors help neighbors. It keeps the community connected and thriving. 

“It’s not just about raking leaves,” Andrus said. “It’s about gratitude, connection, and making sure our neighbors feel cared for.”

Registration is still open for the upcoming year of Chore Days. Anyone and everyone is welcome to sign up to volunteer a few hours of their time and help out someone in need. After all, Fall is the season of change, and these events are a reminder of the glue that holds the community steady through it.