The Active Retirement Association is a non-profit organization founded in 1982 and governed by a volunteer board of directors. ARA aims to promote lifelong learning, personal growth, and wellbeing for seniors in the seacoast area and beyond.
About ARA
The Active Retirement Association is a non-profit organization founded in 1982 and governed by a volunteer board of directors. ARA aims to promote lifelong learning, personal growth, and wellbeing for seniors in the seacoast area and beyond. We offer group educational, cultural, and recreational experiences for those who wish to broaden their knowledge and interests, stay physically active, and connect with friends old and new. Members are urged to use their talents and background as program leaders, officers, and committee members.
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Key offerings include a regular program series as well as member interest groups (PODs) and cultural tours. There are also Memorial Fund lectures and four general meetings per year which are free and open to the public. General meetings include a featured program as well as time for socializing with current and prospective members. We also hold an annual meeting/luncheon, holiday luncheon, and picnic for ARA members.
Affiliation with UNH
ARA began as an outreach program of the University of New Hampshire Continuing Education Division. Although we are no longer governed by or funded by UNH, we benefit from our strong ties and access to the University's resources.
ARA members benefit from:
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UNH library privileges
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Faculty speakers at many of our programs
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Age of Champions Health & Wellness Fair
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UNH Dimond Library
Volunteer Committees - Join Us!
ARA is structured to have a set of directors in charge of the functions necessary to the operation of the association. Each director is assisted by a committee in the execution of the tasks assigned. Directors and committee members must be members in good standing of ARA.
We encourage you to learn more and get involved by contacting one of our committee directors.
Audio/Visual/Zoom
Contact: Bob Woodward
The A/V/Z committee recommends, acquires, maintains, sets up and, where necessary, operates audio/visual equipment for all ARA functions: programs, meetings, and any other events where such equipment is required.
Cultural Tours
Contact: Vasant Dass
The cultural tours committee meets monthly to plan all aspects of the tours. The planning stage includes checking places of interest, dining venues, bus lines, schedules, and pricing. Whenever possible, tour committee members or the tour director actually “walk the walk” before any tour to enhance the tour experience for ARA members.
Facilities
Contact: Wendy Beckwith
The facilities committee assists the facilities director in preparing venues for general meetings and special events as needed. Work includes setting up and taking down tables, chairs and any other items needed for a successful event.
Financial Advisory
Contact: Madelyn Duzinski
The financial advisory committee offers guidance and financial expertise to the treasurer to manage ARA’s investments, including the Memorial Fund. Other expertise including insurance is also needed from time to time.
Hospitality
Contact: Ismini George
The hospitality committee assists the hospitality director in making arrangements for refreshments served at ARA events such as general meetings and holiday and annual meeting luncheons. Committee members may also assist in performing other appropriate functions related to enhancing social aspects of these events and making members and guests feel welcome.
Membership
Contact: Linda Lacroix
The membership committee assists the membership director in maintaining and updating the membership files of the association, printing and distributing name badges, and providing the directors with up-to-date lists of members.
Programs
Contact: Elaine Pratt
The program committee is charged to think creatively to design programs that are educational, entertaining and enriching for our members. Sometimes these are classroom-based (often with nationally prominent professors and professionals) while at other times we'll head out on a field trip. So join a convivial group of members that shares many a laugh while building these programs (otherwise, what’s the point?)!
Public Relations
Contact: Catherine Schirmer
The purpose of the public relations committee is to inform the public about the activities and benefits of membership in the Active Retirement Association (ARA). Responsibilities include writing and disseminating information about current programs open to the general public, specifically all general meetings, Memorial Fund events, and one free program per term. The committee is also responsible for writing copy for all press releases and promotional materials.
Publications
Contact: Susan Wagner
A small cohort of publications committee members (fondly known as ‘Stuffers & Stampers’) prepares the mailing of the semi-annual program schedules, cultural tour and social event announcements, membership renewal forms, and other printed communications with the membership. Mailings are ‘stuffed and stamped’ about five or six times yearly.
Technology Services
Contact: Drew Christie
The technology services committee assists the technology services director in maintaining and updating the on-line presence of ARA. This includes:
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• Distributing information to the membership by email via Constant Contact
• Maintaining the website information for all of ARA board/committee members
• Posting special announcements, notices, and free events in the community that members might want to take advantage of.