Advocates in the News
CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, IL –
Advocates for Aging Care proudly announces that it has received Certificate of Need (CON) approval to build a new skilled nursing facility in Champaign County, marking a major milestone in the organization's mission to expand access to high-quality long-term care for older adults.
A delegation of volunteers from the nonprofit, joined by State Senator Paul Faraci, traveled to Bolingbrook on Tuesday to testify before the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Health Facilities and Services Review Board. Approval clears the way for the development of an innovative skilled nursing facility designed to address the growing shortage of skilled nursing beds in the region while redefining the standard of care through a person-centered approach.
Advocates for Aging Care Secures Certificate of Need Approval for New Skilled Nursing Facility
CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, IL – Advocates for Aging Care (AAC) is encouraging residents, healthcare professionals, community leaders, and families to attend a public hearing on June 9 to share their support of a proposed skilled nursing facility designed to address Champaign County's severe shortage of skilled nursing beds.
AAC has submitted an application to the State of Illinois seeking approval for 120 licensed skilled nursing beds. The proposal comes as Champaign County faces a documented shortage of more than 300 skilled nursing beds - the largest deficit of any county in Illinois.
The Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board (HFSRB) will hold a public hearing to gather community input on the proposal.
Public Invited to Speak on Proposed Skilled Nursing Facility at June 9 Hearing
New-concept nursing home proposed for Savoy
Cottage-based facility would have 120 beds
June 2, 2026
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Researchers Explore Collaboration on Innovative Skilled Nursing Model
February 26, 2026
Champaign County, IL - Researchers from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign gathered Thursday to explore a strategic partnership with Advocates for Aging Care (AAC), a local grassroots organization working to bring an innovative skilled nursing facility to Champaign County.
The workshop brought together university faculty, clinicians, and leaders to begin shaping how research, education, and clinical practice could align to strengthen person-directed aging care.
Building an Innovative Model for Skilled Nursing Care
The overarching goal is to establish The Cottages as a quality, person-directed skilled nursing setting inspired by the Green House model. Through collaboration with the university, project leaders aim to embed research into practice, pilot new technologies, and create hands-on educational opportunities for students across disciplines.
Nonprofit, U of I Researchers Propose Project to Solve Nursing Bed Shortage in Champaign Co.
WCIA Coverage
February 26, 2026
New Senior Living Facility Could Serve as Model for Advanced Aging Care
February 27, 2026
CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, September 16, 2025 — Champaign County’s Advocates for Aging Care will receive a $500,000 allocation in the Illinois state budget to help address the critical shortage of skilled nursing beds in the county. The funding—secured through the advocacy of Senator Paul Faraci—will support capital costs for a new skilled nursing facility in Champaign County.
Senator Faraci’s support on behalf of older adults played a pivotal role in securing the funds. “This investment reflects our commitment to supporting our aging population and ensuring their continued well-being,” said Senator Faraci. “Champaign County has the unfortunate distinction of being the most underserved county in the state in terms of skilled nursing beds, with a shortage of more than 300 beds. By working with local healthcare providers and educational institutions, we have the opportunity to create something new—a model of skilled nursing care in Illinois.”
Advocates for Aging Care Announces $500,000 allocation in State Budget
State funds kick start nursing home plans
Officials aim to finish project in two years
September 16, 2025
AAC Members Travel to Kentucky for Conference
AAC members Cathy Emanuel and Lynne Barnes recently visited the Thrive Center in Louisville, Kentucky to learn more about how technology can be used to support older adults in aging successfully. The Thrive Center is a nonprofit technology innovation, and educational center designed to enhance the quality of life for those aged 50+. Located in the heart of downtown Louisville, KY, the center occupies 7,500 square foot space that features innovative technology, specialized programming to enhance older adult wellness, and a series of educational programs for the community.
Pictured here are Cathy and Lynne with University of Illinois Collaborations in Health, Aging, Research, and Technology (CHART) administrator Wendy Rogers and Carrie Wunnerdahl, Research Coordinator for CHART.
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