This year, the University Retirees Volunteer Center (URVC) celebrates 30 years of service to the University of Minnesota, community agencies, and retirees. What are its origins? UMRA, of course! In 1987, UMRA's Board of Directors established a Committee of Management for Volunteer Projects, led by Harlan Cleveland, School of Public Affairs emeritus, and Tommy Thompson, Continuing Education and Extension emeritus dean.

Outgrowing UMRA's management and finances, the committee was spun off as an autonomous unit attached to the University and given a new title. As URVC, it now resides with University Relations. Exceptional and unique to higher education, URVC has become a model for other institutions.

For the 2016-17 academic year, URVC logged an all-time high of 9,640 hours of service by 325 active volunteers. University units served include the Academic Health Center, College of Liberal Arts, Institute for Advanced Studies, Minnesota English Language Program, Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Northrop, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, School of Music, Theater Arts and Dance Department, and University Hospitals. Our members have also participated in at least eight senior health research projects in departments such as Kinesiology, MRI Center, Neurology, Psychology, and Physical Therapy; and volunteers have served 38 community agencies and tutored for 20 schools, libraries, and community centers.

Thanks to all UMRA members who contribute to our volunteer projects. The potential for meeting society’s needs are limitless and becoming a volunteer will bring you great satisfaction and a healthier, happier life. URVC has many opportunities to offer you. Contact URVC at [email protected] to explore your interests.

--Alan L. Kagan, Project Director, URVC