The University of the Third Age, more commonly known as U3A, was started in France in 1972 with the aim of improving the quality of the lives of older persons.
Because of its success in France, the idea quickly spread to other countries. and U3A chapters have evolved into democratic, self-funded, self-managed, non-profit organisations.
They are now learning co-operatives of older people, enabling members to share many educational, creative and leisure activities during the latter stages of their lives which might otherwise have been unproductive, dull or lonely.
Membership is open to all older person, who wish to exercise their minds by learning and helping others to learn.
Helderberg U3A offers a wide selection of courses and activities for its almost 2 000 members. The courses and groups currently offered are all given voluntary and without remuneration by members who are either experts, or have an interest in their subject.
These activities are presented for the enjoyment, benefit and personal fulfilment of the members. They fall into categories such as arts and crafts, cultural, languages and literature, outdoor and environmental activities, social groups – and include the theatre, current affairs and media groups, book clubs, exploring the countryside, hiking and money matters, and palaeontology groups.
If you would like to know more about the Helderberg U3A or some of the courses and groups offered, join them on Wednesday December 7, at the Strand Town Hall, for their open day.
Doors open at 9.30am, and tea and coffee will be available during the morning. A number of group and course leaders will have displays of their activities, and visitors will have an opportunity to interact with the leaders as well as with the committee members.
For more information, contact Brodwyn at 083 604 0784 or email brodwyn@wilson.st
Caption: Jan Bentley, coordiinator of the theatre group.
