The coronavirus left many sorrows in its wake, and one of them happened to be the many classes and learning opportunities offered to Sun City residents by the Lifelong Learning Club since 2008.

Lifelong Learning officials managed to reorganize and, like the Phoenix, been brought back to life for Sun City elders who hanker to learn new things, not as part of a degree granting program or certificate, but for the sheer fun of learning.  The group’s brochure reminds prospective participants that learning is a noun and defined as “knowledge or skill acquired by instruction or study.”

Program of Studies Chairwoman Barbara Sausen contacted Lifelong Learning’s past instructors, and most have indicated a willingness to return. Like most people in Sun City who make contributions to the community, the instructors teach on a voluntary basis.

Heading up this renewed effort is Club President Michael Powell who, when he moved to Sun City in 2019, visited the Recreation Centers of Sun City website to peruse available clubs and activities. When the pandemic caused the club to declare a hiatus, Powell wrote to Lifelong Learning with a willingness to help renew learning opportunities here.

New and returning members will have the chance to meet Powell and reconnect with one another at the Lifelong Learning Club’s open house 5-7 p.m. Friday, March 24 at Fairway Center, 10600 W. Peoria Ave.

A teacher, Powell has abiding respect for the special exchange between a teacher and a learner. He was a part-time faculty member with the Maricopa County Community College system. He took the time to learn how people learn and in that process found the values and beliefs held by people shape their desire to learn.

The Lifelong Learning Club is a chartered club associated with the Recreation Centers of Sun City.

Editor’s Note: We’d like to invite our readers to submit their civil comments, pro or con, on this issue. Email AZOpinions@iniusa.org.