ARA Programs
Attention lifelong learners! ARA programs are a wonderful way to explore and learn about new topics, keep up to date with current events and research, and stimulate your mind.
48 Programs each Year​
ARA offers 1.5 hour programs on a wide variety of topics. There are 48 programs each year, divided into 4 terms: two in the fall (24 programs) and two in the spring (24 programs).
They are offered on Wednesday mornings (10-11:30 am), Wednesday afternoons (1:30-3 pm), and Thursday mornings (10-11:30 am). These are mostly classroom-based (often with nationally prominent professors or professionals) while at other times we'll head out on a local field trip. One program each term is open free to the public in person and via Zoom! ARA programs are a centerpiece of the ARA offerings.
Recent Topics
-
End 68 Hours of Hunger – A Local Solution for Addressing Childhood Hunger
-
Less Stress: Why Am I Always Worrying?
-
Holocaust Survivor Shares Her Experiences as a Child During the Nazi Occupation
-
Maple Sugaring: Myth, Magic, and Realities
-
Trekking the Himalayan Mountains in Nepal
-
Center for Wildlife Series: Birds of Prey (field trip)
Discussion Groups
Do you like lively discussions? ​ARA has two discussion groups, one meeting in person in Durham and one meeting on Zoom, both on Monday mornings at 10 am.
Typical topics may include a book discussion or discussions on current events, foreign affairs, science, culture, sports, and literature. For some of the discussions, we use resources published by the nonpartisan Foreign Policy Association
Program Updates & Cancellations
​Members are notified via email about current program updates, cancellations, and Zoom links. If the Oyster River school district cancels school due to weather, all ARA in-person programs will also be cancelled. You can also visit WMUR.com for up-to-date school cancellations.
​
Our shareable Google Calendar is another way to keep up with any schedule changes.
Program Disclaimers
The Active Retirement Association seeks to provide programs that are intellectually stimulating and that create opportunities for members to broaden their scope of interests. ARA does not endorse the viewpoints or opinions of its lecturers, nor does use of a facility constitute ARA endorsement of the beliefs or policies of that facility. ARA is not affiliated with any political, religious, ethnic, or special interest group. ARA, its officers and content providers, shall not be liable for any loss or damage arising from or otherwise connected to your voluntary participation in any program, activity, or event.
Information for Current Members
Locations & Directions
ARA programs and in-person Monday discussions are presented in the Durham Community Church, 17 Main Street, Durham, between the traffic light on Route 108 and the downtown area. Use the lower parking lot at the Community Church for access to the Chapel (programs) or Library (discussions).
​
Kittery Monday discussions are held on Zoom.
Program Changes and Weather Cancellations
ARA is now notifying members, via email with up-to-date information regarding program changes, cancellations, etc., but ONLY if you have signed up for this service on this year’s membership form. Membership sign up forms will be available at General Meetings, on the website and by contacting the ARA Membership Director at arainfo1982@gmail.com.
​
Program sessions will be cancelled for weather-related conditions if the Oyster River School District cancels school. Members should check their e-mail if they've signed up for information updates or turn to WMUR Channel 9 for school cancellation announcements.