Looking forward to Spring? Thinking about getting involved in something new? The Senior Academy might be a good first step. Senior Services of Alexandria, in partnership with the City of Alexandria's Office of Communications and Public Information, is conducting the next session of the Senior Academy starting on Wednesday, April 3.
The Academy is a four-week course designed to provide Alexandria's seniors 60 and over with an opportunity to hear from leaders of local government departments, as well as Alexandria non-profits that provide services and programs for older adults.
The Academy will be held each Wednesday morning in April from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at various locations. Different topics will be covered each week, starting with: Getting to Know Your City and How You Can Make a Difference. Participants will be greeted by Mayor Justin Wilson and hear from City Manager Mark Jinks about how the city’s government operates. They will also learn about the work of the city’s many boards and commissions, including the significant impact of the Commission on Aging. The morning will wrap up with presentations by the city's Offices of Communications and Public Information, Budget and Finance, and Voter Registration.
The second week will focus on city services for seniors. We will visit Police Headquarters and hear presentations by the Police, Fire and Sheriff Departments. The Division of Aging and Adult Services and the Workforce Development Center will highlight their work on behalf of older adults in the community.
The Community Resources session will feature important services offered by several local non-profits, including Rebuilding Together, At Home in Alexandria and Senior Services of Alexandria. We will also hear the latest news about current programs and future plans for Alexandria from the Offices of Planning, Transportation, and Housing.
The final week will provide great information about the many opportunities to learn and stay active as we discuss Leisure, Cultural and Educational Opportunities. The Alexandria Library and Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities will be joined by the Office of Historic Alexandria and Northern Virginia Community College.
The Senior Academy is a free program with light refreshments each week. A special graduation ceremony will take place during a City Council Meeting at City Hall in May. To download an application go to seniorservicesalex.org or call 703-836-4414, ext. 110. Class size is limited to 25 Alexandria residents aged 60+. The application deadline is March 15.
For more information about the various city academies, visit alexandriava.gov/Academies.