Back To School

The nation’s community college system is encouraging Baby Boomers to go back to school.
The Association of Community Colleges is launching a 3-year demonstration program at 10 community colleges across the country to attract students over the age of 50.
The “Plus 50 Initiative” is being funded by a $3.2 million grant from The Atlantic Philanthropies.
The organizers say the project is recognizing one of the largest generational shifts in our nation’s history as Baby Boomers approach retirement and want to remain active.
In a story on prnewswire.com, AACC President George R. Boggs is quoted as saying, “The baby boomer generation wants to stay active in retirement and holds a wealth of knowledge and experience that society cannot afford to see leave the talent pool.”
Chaffey Community College in Los Angeles, is starting a new program for Baby Boom volunteers to mentor and tutor under-prepared students.
Clover Park Technical College in Washington, will offer an environmental science program along with a volunteer on-site project for Baby Boomers.
Joliet Junior College in Illinois will start up a work-force skills program for over-50 students who are seeking new careers in health care and education.
This is a great opportunity not only for Baby Boomers but for the community college system as well. It’s a chance for the Baby Boom generation to remain active and expand their horizons. It’s the type of activity Baby Boomers should leap toward. We are not approaching retirement like previous generations and this type of program allows us to pursue goals as we slowly step out of the Monday-Friday working world.
In return, the community college system receives the insight and experience of an aging generation. We should gladly provide these institutions with the help they are requesting and take advantage of the program they are offering.
Seems like a wise choice all the way around.