Volunteers make all the difference at ElderCollege Delta.
There is no staff allocated to directing or overseeing the operations of the organization, says chairperson Paulette Tattersall. "To me, the essence of the organization is volunteering," she says.
The group, which celebrated its 10-year anniversary last year, offers a range of courses locally for those over 50 during spring and fall semesters. There are no exams.
With an enrollment of almost 300 for the current spring semester, ElderCollge now has more students than ever, notes Tattersall.
Presenters and instructors, the leadership council, hosts and those who help out at special events are all volunteers.
She points out that not all of the volunteers necessarily have a strong background in education and there are a lot of people who come from all sorts of disciplines like nursing and business.
"They believe in what we're trying to do."
Presenters and instructors put themselves out there and share their expertise and passions and can learn along with the students.
"You haven't got an ElderCollege if you don't have presenters and instructors," says Tattersall. ElderCollege is also inviting partnerships with other community organizations and has connections with a number of service groups and Delta Continuing Education.
The group is looking for more volunteers.
"It's a great time for people who are interested in what we're doing to come forward and connect with us."
Those interested (all ages) in exploring volunteer opportunities with ElderCollege Delta can call 604-943-0262.
