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Check out the Link on the right for a recent broadcast From Keith Community Radio (KCR) of an interview with our very own Roz Beck about Elgin & District u3a.
What is the u3a?
The u3a is a movement that encourages older people to keep themselves active by discovering the pleasures of learning in friendly surroundings away from the pressures of formal academic structures. The movement has over a thousand branches, with over 400,000 members throughout the UK. Click on the u3a Tab at the top of the page, which will take you to the National site that details the history of the organisation.
Elgin & District u3a
The Elgin & District u3a is a relatively new Group formed in October 2015 for the Elgin area but not limited to any specific boundaries. We are a lively bunch committed to a variety of subjects and open to the formation of more groups. These groups range from study-based subjects such as languages, science or local history to more recreational topics, including walking, sports, dance and indoor games. They meet in members’ homes or at a public venue. In the latter case, Group members contribute to the room hire costs. For a nominal annual fee, members may join as many Groups as they wish.
What you can enjoy: Joining the u3a, you enter a stimulating organisation quite unlike others. Besides fostering friendships it encourages lifelong learning; and it does it both entertainingly and informatively. We know by now that keeping active mentally and physically, is a key to staying happy and healthy as we get older.
The u3a offers excellent talks and discussions, and a chance to participate in small groups that will widen your knowledge - or cater perhaps for special interests you have already. There is no age limit, and few conditions: membership is open to older persons no longer in full time work.
Interested so far? Then here’s how it works. Members meet altogether every two months at the Members' Meeting when a guest speaker is the special attraction, you can enjoy a wide variety of diverse subjects. Also at that meeting, besides the opportunity to meet existing friends and make new ones, you will be kept abreast of what’s going on, and can enjoy light refreshment. You can get to know your Committee and Group Leaders, too.
The groups are run by leaders well informed in their chosen subject, and in many groups members will be welcome to share their own knowledge and experiences. Groups cover indoor and outdoor interests, cultural and otherwise. Many are social events: within these smaller groups new friendships are made.
Depending on its nature, a group may meet at a local public venue or in a member’s home. Some groups make a small charge to cover the cost of hiring their meeting place or refreshments.
Over 25 groups are up and running, with the possibility of more. If a topic you would like to see is not covered, then our Group Co-ordinator can help you start a new group, taking you through the initial stages. To find out more click on the GROUPS Tab at the top of the page.