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
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.
Duke Center for Aging and Human Development
In 1977, OLLI at Duke, then called 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.
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.
Additional Volunteer Activities
If you are interested in developing volunteer opportunities for OLLI members, please contact Catherine Frank (919-684-3476 or caf14@duke.edu).