They may bring a spouse or companion if they are 50 or older. There are no educational requirements. All that is required is an inquisitive mind and a desire to meet new friends. Although 75 percent of those who attend are married couples, singles are welcome. They may be paired with other singles for lodging.
Most guests are retired professionals who want to continue learning.
Participants take three noncredit courses over a five-day period. Touring the College of Marine Studies and the Zwaanendael Museum, reminiscing with the Bill Earl's Lewes Men's Community Chorus and delving into the history of Lewes with local historian Hazel Brittingham are just some of the extracurricular activities, according to Mulrine. Young picture contests and telling stories of how people met their spouses are just two of the ways life experiences are shared in the evenings. Show and Tell is a unique Virden Center invention that gives everyone a chance to show off their talents. Singing, dancing or displaying photography or crafts are favorites.