Mission Statement

The Creative Retirement Center (CRC) seeks to educate, entertain, and enlarge the world of the learner 50 years and "better." Its purpose is to provide this knowledge in a friendly, social setting which makes learning an event.

The Concept

Expand your horizons by joining other adults in an innovative learning experience at the Creative Retirement Center. In little more than a decade, specialized learning centers for mature individuals have begun to provide programs on campuses across the nation. The programs begin in a small way, attract people who are looking for intellectual stimulus and sociability, and are completely managed by the members, people like you.

Every region boasts people who have expertise in certain subjects, derived from either career experience or avocations. Sharing this knowledge is what the center offers. There are no exams or academic prerequisites, but there are commitments to participate, to learn, to grow, and to enjoy.

Affiliation

The Bluefield State College Creative Retirement Center is affiliated with the Elderhostel Institute Network. The Elderhostel Institute Network, now in its eighth year, was developed to create and enhance opportunities for lifelong learning. Thousands of older adults are joining these organizations which, though going by many different names, share important characteristics: they are "owned" and operated by their members; and they are dedicated to providing learning opportunities for older adults.

Membership

The Creative Retirement Center is open to anyone with intellectual curiosity and a willingness to engage in its pursuit. You may bring with you ideas for topics you would like to study; you may become a discussion leader; you are encouraged to take part in the work of the committees--from curriculum building to publicizing events to planning group activities.

Am I Eligible?

The privilege of membership is offered to anyone 50 years of age and better.

The CRC welcomes you whether your formal education ended early in life or whether you have advanced degrees.

An interest in learning is all that is required.

Courses

Courses do not require tests or papers. They do require intellectual curiosity, a willingness to explore new ideas and share accumulated knowledge. Active participation by each member is important to the success of study courses and to the smooth function of the center. Members are encouraged to serve on committees concerned with curriculum, membership, and promotion.

CRC Activities

• COMING SOON -- Current Schedule of Events
• Computers and the Internet
• Vital American Issues
  • Health Care
  • National Debt
  • Poverty
  • Criminal Violence
• Healthy Aging
• History Alive Presentations
  • Thomas Jefferson
• Investing
• Remembering WW II
• Fiction of Pearl Buck
• Antiques
• Genealogy
• Calligraphy
• Senior Mentoring
• Advanced Healthcare Technology
  • Social and Ethical Implications
• Through the Golden Gate
• Investment Club
• Estate Planning
• Discovery Through the Humanities
• Travelogues

Additional Information

For additional information,contact us by e-mail or call (304) 327-4109.