News & Events
Pathways Kicks Off Fall Lineup!
September means back to the books for students and back to learning and adventure for Pathways Institute for Lifelong Learning members.
A kick-off reception will take place on Tuesday, August 3, to introduce the Fall 2010 courses and cultural event lineup. Dr. Roger Sider will be speaking on the benefits of lifelong learning on our health and wellness. Reserve your seat for this event by July 30, by calling 717-591-7213.
A Tight Knit Group: Messiah Students and Retirees Bond in Monthly Meetings at Messiah Village:
Student-run group hosted by Pathways Institute for Lifelong Learning
On a typical Friday evening, most people would not expect to see college students hanging out at a retirement community. However, on the first Friday evening of the month, you can find students from Messiah College eating pizza and knitting with members of the Pathways Institute, a group of Messiah Village residents and community members often three generations older than the student volunteers.
Each month, the Tabitha’s knitters – a student-organized ministry at Messiah College – join Pathways Institute members at Messiah Village for pizza and needlework for one hour to knit hats, mittens, scarves and other warm items that are donated to residents of Harrisburg area shelters. Tabitha’s allows students to interact with older adults who can share their stories and wisdom, while knitting and crocheting for a good cause. Since last fall, Tabitha’s knitters have donated more than 100 items to Bethesda Women and Children’s Shelter, with half of their donations coming from the Village’s faithful knitters.
“We certainly couldn’t help as many people as we do without the Pathways Institute members. Every time we meet with them, they have a whole bagful of beautiful, warm items to give us,” said Joy Oakes, coordinator for Tabitha’s.
But their work doesn’t stop there. On a regular basis, you’ll find the Tabitha’s knitters at Bethesda Women and Children’s Shelter, teaching the women to make hats on the knitter looms. Some made hats for themselves, others for their soon-to-be-born babies.
“It’s hard to say who is impacted more: the knitters or the women at the shelter,” said Oakes. “It’s such an eye-opening, wonderful experience for the knitters. And you could see women’s confidence and pride growing with the length of the hats.”
Pathways Institute Gift Certificates make great gifts!
Gift certificates for Pathways Institute memberships are available at the Pathways Institute Office at Messiah Village. Memberships are a great way to say “thanks” to a friend, or to celebrate a special occasion!
