Ukraine Under Siege: Making Sense of the Russian Invasion

When Vivian Gibson enrolled in a creative writing class at St. Louis Oasis, she could not foresee just how far down the path toward publication she’d be in just a few years’ time.

“I’ve had two stories published and am currently working on a manuscript for a memoir scheduled for release in 2020,” says Vivian.

Humanities classes covering topics in literature, history, the arts and current events often turn newcomers into Oasis “regulars” like Vivian.

Maggie Ikezaki was pleasantly surprised when she finally decided to check out what was happening at San Diego Oasis. She found a thriving center with plenty of opportunities for growth and volunteering.

“I love when people come to Oasis for the first time and discover that it’s not just for ‘old people,’” says Maggie. “With a wide variety of offerings, there is truly something for everyone.”

Maggie takes a number of classes and is an active volunteer.

When Patty Hunter decided to become a tutor with the Oasis Intergenerational Tutoring program in Indianapolis Oasis, she had a pretty good idea of what she was getting herself into. A retired teacher’s assistant with more than 25 years of experience working with first graders, she is still pleased with the how meaningful tutoring has been.

“The moment my student walks into class, she tells her teacher that this is the best day of her week. And so, it makes it mine as well,” says Patty.

Regina Bryant had never used public transit before, but after participating in the Metro On-the-Move Riders Club with Los Angeles Oasis, she’s confident enough to show others the ropes as well.

“It’s quick and easy to do,” she says. “It’s just a matter of getting out there and trying it. The Riders Club was going so many places I’d never been before, so it was a great opportunity to explore my own city.”

It’s the “aha” moments that keep Gary Cahn coming back to Washington Metropolitan DC Oasis. Since 2003, Gary has taught nearly 400 technology classes as a volunteer.

“There’s nothing like teaching somebody and see them ‘get it,’” he says. “It doesn’t matter if they are eight years old or 80. When that light bulb goes off and they realize what technology can do for them, it’s very rewarding.”

Tai Chi for Arthritis helps people improve balance, vitality, posture, even immunity.

Longtime instructor Genoa Wilson, who teaches these classes at Upstate Oasis, says it’s all about the breathing. “The focused breathing triggers a relaxation response that helps slow down our brain waves. As people progress through the classes, we’re developing a new vocabulary of movement,” she says.

Buddy and Kay Rosene typically take at least 30 lifelong learning classes each trimester at San Antonio Oasis. Over the last 20 years, they have covered a lot of ground together, taking in everything from art to geology to old movies.

“We have such inquisitive minds and are interested in so many things,” says Kay.

Many classes are taught by instructors from local colleges and universities.

Whenever Nancy Thobe receives the latest catalog from Albuquerque Oasis, she’s eager to discover where she can go next.

“It’s like a treasure trove,” she says. Nancy discovered Oasis eight years ago, and typically signs up for two or more local trips each trimester. “I still do some exploring of the area by myself, but there are a lot of places I’m more likely to visit with a group.”

It’s hard to sit still watching the Oasis Tappers, a performance group with Rochester Oasis that keeps dancers on their toes. Members range in age from 62 to 101. Some have learned their skills through Oasis classes, and others have been dancing all their lives, like Marion Fahy.

“Dancing has been a part of my life since I was 12,” she says. “I love it. I just can’t give it up.”