As students returned to Lone Star College-CyFair to start their spring semester, Academy for Lifelong Learning (A.L.L.) members brought smiles and extra helping hands to students and college staff.
“We have more than 18,000 registered students, so during peak registration our lines and wait times can get very long. The A.L.L. members stepped up to the plate and 30 volunteers went through a two-day training program, helping out in various junctures of the registration process,” said LSC-CyFair President Dr. Audre Levy. “We (LSC-CyFair) are proud to have formed such a wonderful partnership with our A.L.L. members. This is truly a win/win for the students and the college. They are a wonderful addition and the students and staff really appreciate their help.”
A.L.L. is a campus program that offers a wide variety of discounted classes, activities and experiences for seniors, 50 and better. In addition, members often participate in and volunteer at campus events.
“I love working around the school,” said Gail Peart, an A.L.L. member for three and a half years. “I had some free time so I thought I’d make good use of it.”
Helping the Student Services staff the first week of classes, A.L.L. members volunteered behind-the-scenes with filing in the records department as Peart did or assisting students with directions, add/drop forms and answering general questions as Bonnie Johnson did.
“My background is in education and I know how important it is,” said Johnson, who joined A.L.L. last fall. “I thought, I’m retired, so what can I do to help out in the community?”
Longtime A.L.L. member Leta Towle said volunteering on campus is part of A.L.L.’s community outreach effort.
“We are so appreciative of what the college does for the seniors,” she said.
Carol Edwards agreed. “We’re here to try and help pay back the college for all the things they do for us with the A.L.L. classes.”
Registration is under way for spring A.L.L. classes such as gardening, travel, history, health care, photography, woodwork, art and many others. A.L.L.’s annual membership fee of $20 entitles members to student discounts and the use of the college’s fitness center. In addition, members have the opportunity to teach an A.L.L. class, volunteer at campus events or serve on the A.L.L. advisory board and/or committees.
For an A.L.L. course schedule or information, go to LoneStar.edu/cyfair-ALL or call the Continuing Education office at 281.290.3460.