IALR September 2024 Newsletter

From mastering the art of sign language in a virtual classroom one month to casting a line as part of a multi-part fishing expedition the next, the Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning is a dynamic hub where curiosity knows no age. Whether people are eager to craft intricate designs with a Cricut, whip up culinary delights in the kitchen or delve into the world of coding while building a musical instrument, there is something for everyone.

This community is about learning new skills and encouraging a lifelong love of discovery and growth.

The Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning is a group that fosters community, knowledge sharing and personal growth through various initiatives and workshops. The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) supports this community-based education platform.

“Lifelong learning isn’t just a hobby; it is a continuous journey of growth and fulfillment.” – Brian Stanley, IALR Program Coordinator II

What is Wonder?

The Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning is a lifelong learning program where members meet curious people, share their passions and talents, and learn new things. Several monthly workshops allow members to discover new skills explore new places.

The Wonder Community crosses multiple generations and unites people with varied interests and talents. By welcoming individuals of all backgrounds, ages and experiences, the community strives to create an inclusive environment where everyone can contribute and benefit from shared knowledge.

Since Wonder began in 2022, more than 50 workshops have been hosted. These workshops cover six “themes” related to community support and growth. Themes include passion projects, green futures, shifting perspectives, teacher topics, healthy us and lunch and learns.

Below are some recent workshops that members have enjoyed:

• Cricut design workshops
• Cooking classes
• Fishing expeditions and tutorials
• Painting and crafting workshops
• Coding and building a musical instrument series
• Cultural appreciation lessons
• Introduction to technology classes

The Wonder Community thrives on collaboration. The initiative taps into a rich reservoir of knowledge, expertise and resources through partnerships with local institutions. Some recent collaborations have included a tour of Imagination Lavender Farm with New College Institute, cooking classes with Megabytes Café and a grant writing workshop with the Danville Regional Foundation. These connections amplify the community’s impact, ensuring that programming is relevant, accessible and responsive to community needs.

Through such collaborations, the Wonder Community positions individuals and organizations to shape the region’s intellectual and cultural landscape.

“Collaborating with regional partners is vital to fostering lifelong learning, as it brings together diverse perspectives, resources and expertise, creating a more prosperous and inclusive educational experience for all.” – Brian Stanley, Advanced Learning Program Coordinator II

As part of the Advanced Learning division at IALR, the Wonder Community demonstrates IALR’s commitment to promoting lifelong and service learning and connecting people with resources. 

Why Wonder?

Rebecca Wright has been a member of the Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning since she attended a painting workshop in June 2023.

“I showed up not knowing HOW much I was getting involved with,” Wright admitted.

What initially seemed like a simple $10 paint class unfolded into a year-long immersion in Wonder’s diverse programming. (The lowest membership tier costs just $10 for unlimited workshops for a year.)

“I had no idea that I would have access to a year of programming based on signing up for that one event,” she reflected, highlighting the unexpected value of her initial investment.

With its diverse and affordable workshops, the Wonder Community quickly became a cornerstone in Wright’s life. Her favorite experiences have been the Cricut workshops and crafting her own musical instrument using an Arduino kit and Pure Data.

“It’s more than just a community; it’s a place where you can truly explore, learn and thrive.” – Rebecca Wright, Wonder Member

For Wright, joining Wonder Community was more than just attending workshops; it was an opportunity to reenter day-to-day life during a challenging period of health issues and prolonged home confinement.

“I found the group at a time when I was coming out of many health issues and being stuck at home,” she shared candidly. “I look forward to getting out of the house and meeting new people who are also curious to keep learning.”

Whether it’s painting, cooking or learning sign language, Wright finds that Wonder fosters a sense of accomplishment and community spirit.

“In our supportive, judgment-free environment, you can try new things without fear. We laugh together, learn together and support each other in figuring out how to improve for the next time.” – Rebecca Wright, Wonder Community Member 

She believes that this collaborative spirit makes Wonder Community such a fulfilling way to grow and learn.

Joining Wonder

The Wonder Community offers a unique membership process for becoming a supporter. There are two main options: pay a fee or present a workshop.

“One of my favorite skills I’ve learned is how to clean a fish. I never thought I would have the stomach to do that. I’ve learned heat-pressing, painting and how to use a cricket. The cooking classes helped me expand my ideas in the kitchen.” – Jessica Hardy, Wonder Community member

The lowest tier costs just $10 (or one workshop presentation) and includes access to all workshops.

Five membership tiers are offered, each corresponding to a monetary value or the option to lead workshops.

In the spirit of “paying it forward,” 60% of each supporter’s payment will be invested directly into the community. Supporters can choose to dedicate this donation to a nonprofit organization of their choice, or to support another individual’s basic Eureka membership.

“If you’re looking for a network of like-minded, curious individuals who are all trying to gain new skills with zero judgment and supporting each other, our members uplift to better one another and better the region as well.” –Brian Stanley, Wonder Community Program Coordinator II

Become a Member Today