Plans are under way to create a unique learning experience for residents of the Greenwood area and the Lakelands region.
Lander University and Wesley Commons, a continuing care retirement community in Greenwood, are working together to develop The Lakelands Lifelong Learning Network (LLLN), an educational program run by its members. Its mission is to provide opportunities for members to further their knowledge in both academic and recreational pursuits, and to share their experiences and interests with others who are enrolled in the program.
A planning committee representing Lander, Wesley Commons, Savannah Lakes Village in McCormick, and individuals with a broad range of business and educational experiences was formed late last year to begin designing the outline of the program.
Lifelong learning institutes date back to the late 1970s and have grown in popularity across the country. There are eight such programs in South Carolina. Many are senior study groups whose members define what educational offerings are included in each program's curriculum.
Some of the courses offered by other institutes include fine arts, culture and music; health and fitness; language arts; current events; hobbies; home and garden; and using personal computers.
Planners are soliciting suggestions from those interested in the program for the kinds of learning opportunities and courses they would find attractive if offered by the local organization.
Suggestions may be e-mailed to the Lakelands Lifelong Learning Network at lakelandslln@lander.edu or called in to 864-388-8989. The planning committee's goal is to begin registration for the program and to offer courses later this year.