Plus 50 Initiative Reaches Out To Graying Students

older student Turning gray needn’t mean the end of learning.

Thanks to an initiative developed for 15 colleges, baby boomers are being targeted as prospective students. Seed grants from the American Association of Community Colleges is making it possible for ten community colleges to launch new “demonstration” programs for students over the age of 50; five “mentor” colleges will also participate in this unique program.

Program organizers explain that the project is designed to help with one of the largest generational shifts impacting our country, as baby boomers approach retirement and consider how to keep themselves active, healthy, and involved in careers and projects of importance to them.

“The baby boomer generation wants to stay active in retirement and holds a wealth of knowledge and experience that society cannot afford to see leave the talent pool,” said George R. Boggs, AACC President and CEO. “By retooling educational programs and adjusting for the needs of plus 50 students, community colleges can empower baby boomers to continue give back by leading the vibrant and fulfilling lives they desire.”

The three-year program is Sponsored by the AACC and is funded by a $3.2 million dollar grant from The Atlantic Philanthropies, the program will last for three years. The 10 demonstration colleges receiving grants include: Wake Technical College in Raleigh, NC; Northern Virginia Community College; Clover Park Technical College in Lakewood, WA; Joliet Junior College in Illinois; plus six other schools.

Central Florida Community College and Cape Cod Community College are two of the five mentor schools participating in the program.