Why should you join the ILR?
Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise to maintain good health throughout a lifetime. Our classes and events promote intellectual stimulation, physical activity, friendships, and social opportunities. Come gather with peers in a relaxed and congenial environment.
Who we are
The Institute for Learning in Retirement is an educational organization planned and operated by and for seniors interested in learning. There are over 300 such college-sponsored institutes and centers in the U.S., and we are one of the largest in Virginia. Our ILR began in 1993 with 15 interested members, and it now has as many as 900 active members from Virginia Beach and surrounding cities. We are housed at the Virginia Beach campus of Tidewater Community College and are in partnership with the Virginia Library system.
Membership
ILR membership is open to people of retirement age without regard to race, religion, gender, color, or national origin. Volunteers interested in enriching their retirement years run the organization, with the help of three employees who see to the business of operation.
What does it cost?
ILR members pay an annual membership fee of $20. Each class selected costs $14 per two-hour session. The ILR social, membership, and travel events are priced accordingly.
Programs
The schedule for classes and trips is offered by quarters (Jan-Mar, Apr-Jun, Jul-Sep, Oct-Dec). Members can register for programs as soon as the schedule is mailed or posted as a PDF on this website.
Members register for the classes and activities that interest them. Topics are drawn from the arts, social issues, science and technology, history and world affairs, health-related subjects, Great Decisions, and the Great Books. ILR also has special interest groups that organize as members express interest. Currently we have a book discussion group and Siteseers who discuss travel. Call the office for contact information about these groups.
Classes
Our classes are usually two-hour presentations. Each calendar quarter, ILR offers 20 to 25 different classes planned by our Curriculum Committee. Classes meet Monday through Thursday in either the morning (10-12) or afternoon (1-3). Area college and university faculty teach many of our classes, but area experts and our members deliver others.
Social and Travel Opportunities
Socializing is an important aspect of ILR. The Social Committee plans luncheons, visits to museums, and holiday events. The Membership Committee organizes periodic Coffee and Conversation gatherings and New-Member Get-Togethers. The Travel Committee plans both day and overnight bus trips.