“Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel.” — Socrates
Seniors used to dream of retiring to a mountaintop aerie or beach bungalow, usually near a golf course. It’s a different retirement today as many are seeking to spend their later years in a college or university town, a trend the Wall Street Journal noted in an article last December.
The reporter cited four couples who chose to retire to university communities in Alabama (Birmingham), Oregon (Portland), Texas (Austin) and North Carolina (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill).
As the Journal noted, Jim Bowers, a newcomer from Vermont to the RDU area, had always lived in a college town and “felt that being near Duke University, North Carolina State and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was an important part of the quality of life” he sought and enjoyed.
Research shows that people feel younger when they are surrounded by 20-year-olds. Seniors also like the perks that come with being part of college life: the plays, concerts, guest speakers, the library and even just hanging out. It is the only model community that is truly intergenerational by definition, offering seniors the best part of college life like the new collaboration between Well•Spring Retirement Community and UNCG.
Well·Spring and UNCG: A Collaborative Initiative
Well•Spring Retirement Community and The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) have joined in a collaborative initiative to enrich the lives of older adults.
The reciprocal relationship will benefit members of both institutions by bringing together talented, experienced adults and a vibrant, academic community.
Well•Spring, an award-winning continuing care retirement community, will provide guidance and education to UNCG regarding the best practices in aging. Well•Spring residents will serve as mentors or volunteers for student and community activities, partnering with faculty, staff and students to share their business expertise and experiences.
Meanwhile, UNCG’s nationally recognized health care programs and diverse cultural arts, business and educational opportunities will have a meaningful impact on Well•Spring’s culture.
Residents of Well•Spring will attend on-campus lectures, concerts, recitals, athletic events and other programs as well as enroll in or audit classes.
Linda Brady“With the aging of our population, programs like this innovative partnership are crucial. Some of the most important lessons a student learns takes place outside the classroom. UNCG is committed to taking our students beyond the campus to serve the community, which benefits everyone.” UNCG Chancellor Linda Brady
Steve Fleming“UNCG is one of the top universities in the state. Well•Spring is an award-winning retirement community. The teaching, research, service, and engagement efforts of both UNCG and Well•Spring will help both institutions and all participants gain a greater sense of purpose.” Steve Fleming, President and CEO of Well•Spring Retirement Community.