There is a need… indeed
New Knowledge Adventures (NKA) began its first semester in the fall of 1998 with 12 members and 6 lifelong learning classes, reaching a peak pre-Covid enrollment of 600 members and 135 classes at one point. In 2016, NKA’s nearly perfect space in the “old Blocks Building” became unavailable. Classes bounced from one location to another. This was when members of NKA realized they had to find another space to house classes and became active in finding a solution.
The solution takes shape
A nonprofit corporation was formed in 2017 of representatives from NKA, Snake River New Horizons Band, and other groups also seeking new spaces for their activities, allowing more eyes to focus on the facility challenge and a subsequent solution. In 2019, a nonprofit tax-exempt 501 (c) (3) organization, United Seniors Project, Inc. (USP), was born. USP has identified space requirements and searched for buildings or property suitable for the immediate needs, but also that could enhance the broader needs of a growing population of “seniors” in our region.
Our requirements as currently defined
USP has developed a Strategic Plan of Action and a Business Plan, to define our goals. We are seeking a solution that includes a large parking area, a large lecture area, and a fitness/motion room. Additional classroom space is needed for crafts, cards/games, and woodcarving with adequate ventilation, to name a few.
“I strongly believe in the mission of the United Seniors Project to establish a Lifelong Learning Center that addresses the ongoing wellness needs of our community.”
“This center will be a hub of knowledge, fostering personal growth and empowerment for older adults. By contributing to the Capital Campaign, we can create a space where individuals can continue to learn, socialize, and thrive. I urge everyone to support this noble cause and help build a brighter future for seniors in our area!”
Kandi Turley-Ames
Founding Dean College of Arts and Letters at Idaho State University
Lifelong Learning Center
The Vision
To enrich lives through lifelong learning and healthy aging.
Our structure
A lifelong learning center will provide space for the Southeast Idaho community to come together to learn, celebrate, and foster the physical, mental, social, and emotional health of participants. As an age-friendly regional center, it will aid ongoing community wellness needs by implementing a wide variety of programs that help keep people productive and engaged throughout their lives.
The learning center value proposition
- Multi-generational partnerships
- Increased health and fitness
- Social support
- Lifelong learning
- Affordable programming
- Community meeting/education space
- Livability of community
- Economic increase
Capital Campaign
Dear Southeast Idaho Community,
Developing a multicultural, multi-generational facility for programs and organizations that enhance the social, physical, emotional, educational, and creative well-being of residents in our area requires wide support.
Truly, “It takes a village!” We invite you to invest in the United Seniors Project vision of a community facility that will encourage lifelong learning and healthy aging, a place for seniors/retirees to gather, learn, and socialize.
Turning a vision into a reality: Another quote says that “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” Since USP was formed in 2017 the path forward has been a learning experience in its own right. Presentations have been made to several civic groups, the Pocatello Chamber of Commerce members, classes to New Knowledge Adventures members, and others. Brochures, pamphlets, and booklets have been developed and distributed. Fundraising events have been held and projects have been undertaken to raise awareness of our vision and to raise funds to make it happen. Numerous buildings in Pocatello have been visited (and more will be visited as they become available) to determine if they are suitable or can be made suitable for us.
What you can do: Remodeling and construction will be expensive. We will continue to raise funds so that when a building is acquired we can start making it our own quickly. Your financial support, or continued support if you have donated previously is still needed. That support can be amplified by helping USP identify businesses, organizations and individuals who recognize the potential benefits of our Project and can invest in making it a reality.
Thank you! USP is deeply appreciative for the support you have given us – the positive receptions that we received when we made presentations about our Project, your comments and suggestions, and especially when you have made a donation. Together we’ll make it a reality.
We are truly grateful for your support and assistance.
Sincerely,
Phil Joslin
President
“Much of the population growth in our area has been older citizens moving here to retire and enjoy their golden years. But today’s seniors want more than sitting on a porch and enjoying the sunset. They want to learn new skills, expand their hobby expertise, and socialize with peers. The work of the United Seniors Project is to bring all of these desires under one roof where all these things can happen for seniors in the region.”
Rick Cheatum
Pocatello City Council Member
