Inspiring health & wellness in Chicago's western suburbs

Welcome to OptWell, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization inspiring the health and wellness of people who live, work, and play in Chicago’s western suburbs through education, connection to community resources, and social support, making healthy choices easier. 

OptWell empowers communities to thrive

Building on the success of Healthy Countryside, a resident-driven wellness initiative, OptWell strives to empower individuals across Chicago's western suburbs with resources and knowledge to make healthy choices. 


We work to foster a community where healthier options are accessible, encouraged, and embraced—allowing everyone to thrive together.

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“The more that healthy habits are ‘the norm,’ the easier it is for all of us to make healthy choices.”

Kris Lonsway, Ph.D  |  Founder and board president of OptWell

A woman is standing at a podium holding a microphone and smiling.

Healthy habits

OptWell promotes evidence-based healthy habits—helping people live longer, healthier lives.

Two little girls are eating apples and bananas at a table.
A man and a woman are walking in a park holding hands.
Two women are sitting next to each other and shaking hands.
An elderly man is sitting on a bed with his arms in the air.
Woman having her blood pressure checked.

Programs and Services

OptWell's current and envisioned programs in collaboration with local nonprofit partners, schools, and businesses follow:

  • Community Wellness Fairs
  • Health Education Events with Social Connection
  • User-friendly Directories of Community Health Resources
  • Community Health Education via Community Newsletters
  • Movement & Mindfulness Programs   
  • Healthy Hotspot Restaurant Programs