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What is the VCLLI?
The Virginia Caples Lifelong Learning Institute (VCLLI) was named in honor of the late 1890 Extension Administrator Virginia Caples, who envisioned developing a lifelong learning center for older adults. The VCLLI is housed on the campus of Alabama A&M University (AAMU) and operates under the direction of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. With the rapid growth of an aging population, there’s no time like the present to promote, advocate, and deliver lifelong learning opportunities for older adults.
Mission
The mission of the VCLLI is to create and sustain a stimulating, educational, social, and life-enhancing environment for senior adults. This mission is fulfilled through innovative curricula, experiential learning, and intergenerational activities. Further, the Institute engages in research and advocacy that advance its defining theme of successful aging.
Noted for its multidimensional platform, the VCLLI has quickly become a highly acclaimed resource for senior adults in Alabama. Led by the Advisory Council, members drive the programs and activities and are the lifeblood of the Institute. The success and growth of the VCLLI are highly dependent on the active involvement of its members who also serve as volunteers in various capacities.
Who Should Join the VCLLI?
While the Institute focuses on older adults, it is a great resource for caregivers, family members, geriatric service providers, and the general public. Its doors are open to anyone who wants to learn about and resolve timely issues that impact older adults.
VCLLI membership is free and easy. Just complete the membership form or call (256) 372–7022. As a member, you will receive timely updates on all VCLLI activities!
Volunteer to be a Course Leader
Eager to share your knowledge and talents? With the vibrant, dynamic, skilled, and talented senior adult population in North Alabama and across the state, why not share what you know? Consider becoming a VCLLI course leader. There are no papers or tests to grade. Just come and share your knowledge with people who have a true love for learning. Fill out the membership form and check the box that you are interested in volunteering with the VCLLI.
Download a PDF of the VCLLI Membership Form.
Spring 2024 Activities, Courses, and Workshops
The VCLLI offers a series of activities, courses, and workshops in the spring and fall each year. VCLLI members are eligible to sign up for fun, learning opportunities, and events for free. Spring 2024 in-person and online classes will run from February 3 to May 13.
The lineup of spring courses is as follows:
- AFA Memory Screenings
- Artisan Skin Care Products
- Alabama Heirs Property Alliance (Community Education)
- Bulldog Garden Spring Planting and Harvesting
- Crafty Creations: Jewelry Making
- Crafty Creations: Wreath Making
- Cybersecurity for Seniors
- Dementia Memory Cafe
- Greeting Cardmaking (Family Life Center)
- Greeting Cardmaking (Virtual)
- Spring Gardening
- Meaningful Monday Part I: Estate Planning Series
- Meaningful Monday Part II: Caregiving (Estate Planning focus)
- Nutrition to Support Healthy Aging
- Social Security Administration Benefits and Services Updates
- Tai Chi Exercise for Balance and Pain Management
- Virtual Dementia Tour
- Walk Across the 1890s
- Two-Step Tuesday
- Discovering Extension: Digital Experience
Community Pro Bon Elder Law Clinics
Elmore County – April 11 / 9:00 a.m. to Noon
Tallassee Community Hospital, 805 Friendship Road, Tallassee, AL 36708
Register: Call (334) 567-6301
Montgomery County – April 12 / 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Maggie Street Baptist Church, 642 Maggie Street, Montgomery, AL 36106
Register: Call (334) 240-4680
Lowndes County – April 18 / 9 a.m. to Noon
Whitehall Town Hall, 3315 Hayneville Road, Whitehall, AL 36752
Register: Call (334) 548-2315
Dallas County – April 26 / 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Selma-Dallas County Public Library, 1103 Selma Avenue, Selma, AL 36703
Register: Call (334) 875-3200
Note: Registration is required. Space is limited to 12 people, so register today!
Download a PDF of the VCLLI Spring 2024 Catalog.
If you need reasonable accommodation or language access services, contact Danielle Rudolph at ddr0007@aces.edu.
Contact Us
Contact Extension to share your interest in becoming a member, joining a future in-person or online workshop, or volunteering as a course leader.
State Office, Alabama A&M University
- Danielle Rudolph, VCLLI Site Director
- Office: (256) 372-4949
- Email: ddr0007@aces.edu
- Cándra Johnson DeBose, VCLLI Program Assistant
- Office: (256) 372-7022
- Email: ckj0015@aces.edu