OLLI at SOU accepts proposals for programs and activities and Shared Interest Groups (SIGs) year around. A proposal form must be submitted a minimum of six weeks prior to the program, activity or SIG.
Programs and activities encompass ventures for OLLI at SOU members to do outside of a two- to 10-session course. Facilitators can give one-time presentations or coordinate activities like picnics or guided hikes. The possibilities are endless!
The key difference between programs/activities and SIGs is that SIGs are ongoing. SIGs meet on a regular basis around their shared interest; a program or activity is a one-time occurrence.
What is the role of a programs and activities facilitator?
An OLLI program or activity facilitator has duties that depend on which type of program or activity they will be facilitating. If it is a presentation, they are responsible for coordinating the presentation and/or making the presentation themselves. If it is an activity, they need to coordinate the activity with and provide important details to OLLI staff. Facilitators of both programs and activities work with OLLI at SOU staff to schedule the location, date, and time accordingly.
A SIG facilitator is responsible for administrative and communication details with the members of the SIG. They communicate meeting times, locations and details of what the SIG will be doing. They are also responsible for verifying that all participants are current OLLI members, communicating with the Programs and Activities Committee for scheduling/promotional needs and letting the committee know if the SIG is suspended or disbanded.
How do I become a facilitator for OLLI at SOU?
Anyone can propose a program or activity using our Programs and Activities Proposal Form. Non-OLLI members can give presentations and host activities, but participation in the program or activity is limited to OLLI members only. In contrast, SIGs can only be started by OLLI members. Current members who want to start a SIG should use the Shared Interest Group Proposal Form.
Do I have to be an OLLI member to facilitate a program or activity?
A facilitator interested in doing a one-time presentation or hosting an activity for OLLI does not need to be a current member. However, any facilitator who will be starting a Shared Interest Group must be a current member.
When can I submit a programs and activities proposal form?
OLLI at SOU accepts Programs & Activities proposals year-round. A proposal form must be submitted a minimum of six weeks prior to the program, activity or SIG to allow time for promotion and registration. There may be additional constraints applied to the schedule of an activity that are determined on a case-by-case basis.
How will I know if my program or activity is accepted?
The Programs and Activities Committee Chair will reach out to clarify any questions they may have about the proposal and notify you of its acceptance. Scheduling details will be finalized by the Committee Chair in collaboration with OLLI at SOU staff.
Can programs and activities be held over Zoom?
Yes! Programs and activities can be held online via Zoom. Zoom is a great platform for hosting one-time presentations and getting together with your SIG. If you do not have a Zoom account, the Programs and Activities Committee Chair may be able to assist in setting up a Zoom meeting.
