50 North remains on path of  growth while enriching lives of  seniors

Since 2019, 50 North Senior Activity Center has continued to enrich the lives of seniors through  a variety of fun opportunities for many years. 

Reflecting back on 50 North’s beginning, “We noticed that there was no senior center anywhere in Winnebago County,” said Diane LaForge, who played a key role in starting 50 North and serves as the President. 

Before forming the organization, LaForge researched demographics in each local town. “At that time Roscoe had about 27% of residents over the age of 50. Rockton had about 29%, and South Beloit had 19%.”

After pitching the idea to village and township boards in Roscoe, Rockton and South Beloit, the group received great support from each entity. “We have nothing but good things to say about village leaders, townships and businesses,” LaForge said.

Municipalities have assisted with funding or have supported the group by allowing the use of community centers, and beyond. 

This  non profit 501(c)(3) Stateline organization for seniors is always welcoming new members to their meetings.

At the core of 50 North's mission is empowering senior citizens to embrace life to the fullest and to foster connections within communities, to reconnect with old friends, and to develop new friendships.

Rhonda Tierney says, “50 North is a wonderful organization that provides valuable services to the older generation of men and women.”

Tierney adds, “Most recently the Winnebago County Sheriff's Department had a speaker who explained the most recent scams in this area. Some of our meetings have featured   musicians who  have brought  the best in  entertainment, a magician who has performed, and guest speakers who have offered entertaining topics on many different subjects.

Another social activity the group offers is shared meals together. Picnics are held in the summer. A pizza party is held in the fall. 

Upcoming events will place a focus on the holiday season starting with  the annual turkey sandwich luncheon on Tuesday, Nov. 17.  

Everyone will come together to celebrate in festive style on Dec.1 and 15

One of the ways 50 North stays in operation is by applying for new grants each year. 

"This year 50 North  secured a  grant from the Stateline Foundation which will enable 50 North  to open doors to keep expanding  on some of their  programs, to host more historical presentations, or be used toward serving refreshments at meetings."

Community outreach is at the forefront of  50 North as they give back to the overall community on a consistent basis. 

Over the years they have volunteered during the Rockton Christmas Walk in different capacities and have helped the Hononegah Booster Club. They have also filled Easter eggs for Rockton’s Easter Egg Hunts, and have assisted wherever  it was possible. 

At the November 2, 2026 Rockton Board of Trustees meeting  50 North thanked the Village for all of their support and gave updates on  their progress.

A board of directors consists of President and Founder,  Diane LaForge, Vice President Roxanne Smith, Secretary Jane Schamell, and Treasurer John Schamell. Also serving on the board are  Mark Grace, and Jeanne Nichols.

Gwen Stook serves as the Activities Coordinator. 

Everyone ages 50 plus is invited to join in the fun. Twice a month, between 50-60 regular attendees enjoy the perks that come with being a part of the organization. There are no membership fees to pay.

50 North meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month at the  Rockton Township Center at 302 W Main Street. in Rockton. Meeting times are from 1-3 p.m.

All their activities are listed on the Rockton-Roscoe News community calendar.

To get added to their mailing list, you can send an email to 50NorthActivityCenter@gmail.com. 

Another option to reach out is to contact Diane LaForge at 815-624-4488.

Through the utilization of the grant funds 50 North seeks to reinforce the belief that age should never be a barrier to leading a fulfilling life. By creating an environment that fosters support and companionship we can enable senior citizens to enjoy their golden years with a sense of purpose, enthusiasm and vitality.

“We are seeing new faces at our meetings all the time, and that remains a goal of ours to welcome even more seniors into 50 North,” Laforge said.