Karen Kolb Flude

Karen Kolb Flude, MS, RFG is a founding Executive Director and President of Forward Chicago, a grassroots organization based in the Lincoln Square neighborhood, which helps older adults organize around shared and new interests, like walking, science talks, games, music, and sharing meals. Forward Chicago is open to people of all ages.

Karen is an essential collaborator in our effort. Early in the project, Karen consulted Dan on best practices with older adults, led multiple trainings for presenters at the University of Chicago, and facilitated collaboration with new venues, like the Conrad Sulzer and Woodson public libraries, both made possible by the help of Forward Chicago.

Karen is also the founder and Principal of Age With Ease, an organization that works with older adults and their loved ones, businesses, and communities to promote a positive and active approach to the issues we face as we age.

A Gerontologist, Karen is active in a number of national organizations, including the American Society on Aging where she serves on the National Board, and the National Academy of Social Insurance. Karen develops innovative and award-winning services and projects, both nationally and locally, for older adults, their families, professionals and organizations. Her passion is helping older people and community realize their latent assets and grow their communities for all ages.  

Karen has a long history of service to her community, and helping communities and residents engage in the causes they care about. Karen is the founding Chair of Chicago’s 47th Ward Senior Council, and is also an active member of Chicago Women Organize.