Helen Aarli, co-host/co-producer of Senior Beat, is New York-born, has lived in different parts of the U.S., and is now happily settled in Madison. In the world of work, Helen's career has encompassed two main areas: as reading teacher/specialist from elementary students through community college and one summer at UW/La Crosse to replace a vacationing university professor.

A second career in gerontology led her to explore the growing field of intergenerational programming and the creative world of developing intergenerational programs that are "mutually beneficial and satisfying to ALL individuals, across the entire age spectrum." This includes: Mentoring, the Clay Stomp, Native American Cultural Project, the ENJOY Home Chore Program, Improv Drama, Single Moms Program, social studies curriculum discussion groups, politics and ethics.

Her favorite things to do includes working on Senior Beat, PLATO class coordinator, art, music, dance... and of course, politics!

Regarding her goals for Senior Beat, Helen stated "That stretch between the State Capitol (i.e. the political world) and the University of Wisconsin (intellectual center) and the exciting, alive stretch of State Street that connects the two, open endless opportunities for Madison retirees. And that excitement and diversity are what we try to bring to the entire community of Madison via Senior Beat."


Christine Beatty
Christine Beatty is the Director of the Madison Senior Center and has been working with and for older adults in a variety of capacities since 1977.

She serves on the Board of Directors of The National Council of Aging, Washington, DC, and she is a national speaker on topics impacting older adults including: volunteerism, retirement and other aging issues.