A Message from the ILR Chair
Dear ILR Community,
We have just completed another wonderful term of learning and fellowship. The classes I taught and those I took were loaded with great information, but, equally important, we could also laugh with each other and enjoy a great time. I am more energized about ILR now than ever before. Our enrollment is up to 80% of pre-pandemic attendance, and we had about 100 people come to our 25th-anniversary party, which was very fun. And so, with cautious optimism, I'd say the future of ILR is very bright.
But that doesn't mean we are out of the woods yet. Our finances took quite a hit during the pandemic, and we have not yet recovered. As an organization that depends upon enrollment fees and generous donations, we are indeed still hurting. So, I hope you will consider two things:
First, if you haven't "come back" to ILR yet, give us a try again next term. We offer a truly amazing variety of classes, and now we even offer them in different formats. You can now take many of our classes from the comfort of your own home on your computer. Other classes, of course, can only be taught in person—like the microscopy and tree identification classes my dad and I taught this term—but the point is there is something for everybody. If you have been taking classes, convince a friend to join you. There is room for everyone.
Second, please consider a gift for ILR between now and next week’s GivingTuesday. We are so appreciative of all the gifts you have so graciously given in the past. I sign each one so I know how generous our group has been. Whatever you can give is helpful; know how much we sincerely appreciate it. Giving ensures our program not only survives but thrives well into the future.
I wish you all the happiest of holidays, and I hope to see you in class next spring.
With gratitude,
Ben Mattox
Chair, ILR Board of Directors
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About GivingTuesday
GivingTuesday is a global generosity movement unleashing the power of radical generosity. GivingTuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to make a difference. Since then, it has grown into a year-round global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity.
Join the movement and give, whether it’s some of your time, a donation, or the power of your presence in your local community.
It’s a simple idea: Whether it’s making someone smile, helping a neighbor or stranger out, showing up for an issue or people we care about, or giving some of what we have to those who need our help, every act of generosity counts and everyone has something to contribute toward building the better world we all want to live in.
There's no need to wait until next Tuesday. You can make your impact today!
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No-cost Ways to Support ILR
Kroger: Does the bottom of your Kroger receipt look like the one on the right? If not, PLEASE sign up to support ILR through the Kroger Community Rewards program, a no-cost, no-sell, nothing-to-buy fundraiser. Once enrolled, each time you swipe your Kroger Plus card, Kroger will donate a percentage (up to 4%) of your total purchases to ILR. Kroger divides these charitable funds among all participating non-profit organizations. With only minimal effort on your part (a few minutes to register your affiliation to ILR) you can help us offset our operating expenses.
Please don't leave these charitable dollars on the Kroger table. Simply go to KrogerCommunityRewards.com to enroll. When prompted, use ILR's Kroger Rewards Organization number: BT008. Let us know if we can help you get enrolled.
Teach for ILR: Our awesome instructors are the engine that powers the ILR machine. Whether the passion for your subject matter stems from your career, hobby, or life experiences, you'll find an audience that's eager, interested, and hopeful you'll consider proposing a course for ILR. To get started, complete our course proposal form, which can always be found on our website under the "Teach" header.
Volunteer for ILR: By design, ILR is a volunteer-run organization. If you're currently volunteering, know how much we appreciate you. You're the reason we're able to do what we do. If you're still looking for ways to get involved, consider joining one of our committees. Where will you make your impact? We have an immediate need to add new members to the ILR Tech Team—online and in the Oxford and West Chester classrooms. If you've attended an online class or were assisted in the classroom by a team member, you know the value they bring to their instructors and students alike. They keep the ILR machine humming. Training is provided.
Spread the word about ILR: We pinch our pennies to keep our pricing low. For example, beyond our catalog, we don't spend a dime on publicity. Yet, prior to the pandemic, we logged eight consecutive record-breaking years. Good news travels fast, thanks to you. Please continue to share your ILR experiences and invite your friends and family to register and join you next semester.
“The ILR program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my move from Columbus. The courses are well chosen, and the format which now includes virtual attendance has made it possible for me to pursue interests and be introduced to many new ones.” ~ Eleanor Wagner, fall 2022
“The hybrid format allows those of us who can only attend virtually a chance to participate fully in ILR courses.” ~ Nancy Arthur, fall 2022
“I love the variety of subjects - I am always looking for courses that are practical for our age group and challenge our thinking.” ~ Marcie Seidel, fall 2022
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Asheville Registration is NOW OPEN!Road Scholar Learning Adventure for members and friends of ILR
Program # 21758 – Signature City Asheville
Sunday, August 20 to Friday, August 25, 2023
Head for the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina to discover the Art Deco architecture, thriving arts scene, and unique history that makes Asheville a signature American city. Hear expert analysis of the Vanderbilt family’s influence on the city, and learn why the preservation of the downtown makes it a living museum of mid-century architecture. Join experts on explorations of Asheville’s most significant sites and historic properties like the lavish Biltmore Estate, and enjoy the artistic and culinary delights of Asheville’s thriving downtown. Learn more.
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Homes for the HolidaysFor the lucky ILR group that recently toured the Sorg Opera House in Middletown and those that wished they did, now's your chance to revisit not only the opera house, but also the Sorg mansion as well as many other historic Middletown homes, churches, and more, decked out in their holiday finest.
A Most Wonderful ChristmasThe Southwestern Ohio Symphonic Band presents "A Most Wonderful Christmas" at Dave Finkelman Auditorium, Middletown Campus, December 4, 2:30 p.m. See the program.
Love. Honor. Learn.
Join the Miami University Alumni Association (MUAA) for these upcoming events and webinars. Online events are all free and open for anyone to attend, but registration is required.
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| Mark your calendar and plan to join us next spring, March 27 through April 28
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