Volunteer Opportunities
Overview
OLLI at Duke relies heavily on the volunteer efforts of members to keep the program running. Members teach classes, coordinate lecture series, lead small-group discussions, organize activities and volunteer projects, serve on the Board of Advisors and committees, act as class assistants, help with data management and administration, make coffee, and volunteer for all the tasks that make us an exemplary organization. Please read the bulletin boards, e-mails, and newsletters to find out about opportunities and contact Catherine Frank at 919-684-2703 to take advantage of one of the many opportunities listed or to suggest a new program or activities.
Class Assistants
Class members act as assistants to the instructors, helping to ensure that announcements are made, equipment is set up, and handouts are distributed. Class assistants are essential to the smooth functioning of OLLI and enjoy the benefit of becoming better acquainted with both faculty and fellow class members. Training will be provided! If you would like to volunteer to be the class assistant in one or more of your classes, contact Mary Edwards (681-3476) to let her know which instructor you would like to assist.
Board Service
We welcome both new and longtime members to become part of the leadership of OLLI. Serving on the board, either in an elected office or as a committee chair, will allow you to use your talents, contribute to the success of this dynamic organization, and be part of many facets of the OLLI community.
Activities Coordination
Even if you are not ready to coordinate activities for an entire year, you may want to contribute by organizing a trip so that our members can learn more about a favorite North Carolina attraction; members have coordinated trips to the Duke Primate Center, the North Carolina Zoo, the potteries of Seagrove, North Carolina, and the wineries of the Yadkin Valley. Volunteers organize retreats to the North Carolina mountains in the fall and the North Carolina coast in the spring. We need people to do everything from creating lecture series to pouring wine. We always need help with convocations and picnics. These activities are important ways to meet new people and learn more about the organization.
VOLUNTEER PROJECTS
In addition to the need for volunteers within OLLI at Duke, the knowledge and experience of OLLI members has been much sought after and appreciated by a variety of community agencies. Directors of the following projects would be delighted to add new volunteers to their ranks. Contact Catherine Frank at 684-2703 for more information.
Duke Children’s Hospital
We are investigating the many ways in which OLLI members might ease the lives of children and families at Duke Hospital. Coordinator: Gary Childers.
Elementary School Volunteering & Tutoring
You know how important it is to love to learn—won’t you take some time to share that experience with a child? We now have two adopted schools: Club Boulevard Humanities Magnet School in Durham and Estes Hills Elementary School in Chapel Hill. Both schools need volunteers to help the students and teachers. Won’t you tutor a child, help in a classroom or assist teachers with special projects? Training will be available at both schools for those who would like it. Remember—an hour a week of your time and talent could make a big difference in a child’s life. Call the OLLI office at 919-684-2703 for more details.
Duke Center for Aging and Human Development
OLLI at Duke, then the Duke Institute for Learning in Retirement (DILR), began as a joint venture between Continuing Education and the Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, and OLLI members continue to volunteer to participate in studies for the Center for Aging. Pick up an application in the OLLI office in Room 104 of The Bishop’s House.
Duke University’s International House
University International House provides many services for international students and faculty at Duke. You can help by being an “International Friend” or by participating in English language conversation groups. Call International House, 681-6080, for more information.