In 1988, encouraged by Elderhostel, a group of ILR's formed the Elderhostel Institute Network. The Network seeks to encourage development of new institutes and strengthen and support the effectiveness of established institutes. Each local institute develops programs to meet the interests of its members. The Mary Washington ElderStudy was formed in 1993. The wide range of experiences of ElderStudy members provides a potential pool of speakers, discussion groups or projects.
Members are available to work with community organizations.
The ElderStudy relationship with Mary Washington College is further enhanced by members hosting Elderhostel programs on campus, and by providing scholarships to Mary Washington College students. The Mary Washington ElderStudy program is open to all retirement-age persons who are interested in learning, regardless of their previous educational background. Annual membership fees are set at the minimum suggested by the Elderhostel Institute Network. The fiscal year is September 1 through August 31. New members joining in January or later pay half the annual fee.