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What is the VCLLI?
Virginia Caples
The Virginia Caples Lifelong Learning Institute (VCLLI) was named in honor of the late 1890 Extension Administrator Virginia Caples, who had the vision to develop 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, state-of-the-art 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 by serving 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 to join. Just complete the membership form or call (334) 201–2847.
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.
Activities, Courses, and Workshops
The VCLLI offers a series of activities, courses, and workshops in the spring and fall of each year. VCLLI members are eligible to sign up for fun, learning opportunities, and events for free.
Spring 2023 Courses
It’s time to register for spring courses through the Virginia Caples Lifelong Learning Institute (VCLLI) that will be held in person and virtually.
Online Registration
Review the Spring 2023 Catalog to find information and registration links for each course. Registration links are also provided below for each class and activity.
For questions about accessibility or to request accommodations, contact Extension Communications and Marketing at 334-844-5696 or extcomm@aces.edu.
Classes
- Caregiving: Parents Care Partners
- Crafty Creations
- Critter Control
- Grounds and Gardens
- Making Memories Matter
- Meaningful Monday: Estate Planning Series
- Southeast Diabetes Faith Initiative: PreventT2 (Spring 2022 Participants Only)
- Southeast Diabetes Faith Initiative: Preventing Type2 Diabetes (Summer 2022 Diabetes Only)
- Savvy Savings
- Scrapbooking Made Easy
- Social Security Administration: Program Updates: Knowing Your Benefits and More
Special Interest Activities
- Backyard Birdwatching
- Capturing Moments Through Photography
- Cricut Creation
- Senior Scientists
- Come on and Walk with Us
- Our Living History
- Plant-Powered Ways to Substitute Eggs
Digital Experiences
Contact Us
Contact us 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) 372-5943
- Email: ddr0007@aces.edu
- Cándra Johnson DeBose, VCLLI Program Assistant
- Office: (256) 372-7022
- Email: ckj0015@aces.edu
