All Osher Institutes are volunteer driven organizations! OLLI – U of A is no different. Our staff is dedicated, but small, and volunteers are vital to the success, quality and sustainability of the institute’s programs. Volunteers are more important now than ever, as we strive to expand programs to a broader demographic. Your time, talents, and resources are valuable and greatly appreciated!
If you have interest in volunteering in one of the areas below, or would like to help in other ways, complete this form to share your interest and availability.
We are currently seeking volunteers for the following roles:
- Class Ambassadors: Volunteering as a Class Ambassador provides much needed support to our instructors, staff and participants. Duties include greeting participants, introducing instructors, making program announcements.
- Van Drivers: A portion of the programs and activities offered include provided transportation. As a result, volunteers are needed to pick up, drive and return rental vehicles. A short training session is required, and drivers receive free admissions to programs they volunteer for.
- Zoom & Hybrid Class Moderators: To enhance the quality of OLLI’s virtual classes, moderators are needed to support both the instructor and participants. Activities on Zoom include, admitting participants, introducing the instructor, monitoring chat or providing general support. Hybrid classes allow OLLI to provide an in person and virtual experience for participants simultaneously. Moderators of these classes are asked to do a combination of the roles above. Experience with audio/visual technology is helpful, but training is provided.
Volunteer for a Committee:
Committee members work closely with OLLI staff and assist with setting and pursuing institutional goals. The following are descriptions of OLLI committees at the U of A. Committees typically meet monthly.
Advisory Council: The OLLI Advisory Council is made up of Committee Chairs and At-Large Members. Its purpose is to develop strategic goals, review the performance of the OLLI program, and report recommendations to OLLI staff.
Curriculum Committee: This committee develops and evaluates courses/activities to ensure high quality programs are being offered. Committee members are asked to identify and contact potential instructors to facilitate programs that are based on member interest.
Marketing/Membership Committee: The Marketing/Membership Committee works to engage and strengthen the OLLI member network through focus on recruitment, orientation, and retention. The committee often participates in outreach opportunities, including public events and presentations to local civic organizations.
Social Committee: Volunteers for the Social Committee work together to create and develop opportunities for OLLI members to interact and get to know each other outside of the classroom. Committee members propose, plan, and coordinate events, outings, and special interest groups. This could involve socializing before and after class meetings and/or joining together to attend cultural events such as concerts, plays, art exhibitions and so on.
Development/Fundraising Committee: Fundraising is a vital part of the organization as donations/gifts support a portion of the annual budget. This committee supports the staff in developing and acting as champions of fundraising initiatives.
For more details, contact the OLLI office at (479) 575-4545 or email us at olli@uark.edu.
Other Volunteer Areas
Clerical/Office Support: At OLLI-UA we have a hard-working, but small staff. Volunteer a couple hours of your time helping in the OLLI office compiling packets, bulk mailings, photocopying, filing, answering the telephone, or other various administrative duties.
Community Outreach: Community Outreach: Help OLLI grow by spreading the news of all the great opportunities at OLLI-UA. Assist OLLI staff in distributing catalogs, flyers and promotional materials. Connect us with community stakeholders who have an interest in supporting or sponsoring our programs. Present information on OLLI at your next club meeting!
Special Projects & Events: Periodically throughout the year OLLI has special events, fundraisers and exclusive programs. Be a part of making these moments special by helping plan, coordinate and facilitate these events.