iLife, a member-led enrichment program, is keeping Spring Run Golf Club’s aging membership active and on site.
Keeping an aging membership active and on site requires special programming that strikes the right notes with that demographic. At Spring Run Golf Club in Estero, Fla., a complimentary, member-led enrichment program called iLife features 105 presentations, clinics, and discussion groups, and has recorded more than 1,000 member registrations for the series.
“Member participants tailor their choices of activities to fit their lifestyles and to develop and maintain their social, physical, mental and creative skills,” says General Manager Mike Zigler, CCM, CAM.
The early stages of the program began four years ago, when a resident offered free tennis clinics to the club’s members. Resident Bill Furtwengler pitched an idea to Zigler that would offer basic “101” classes on a variety of topics to members, to teach new skills they may have missed out on during their career years.
Following a series of focus groups to uncover hidden talents, clinic facilitators volunteer to lead activities that run the gamut from photography, painting and acting to technologies, “mind fitness” and day trips. One of the most popular offerings is an iPhone class that covers both basic and advanced features.
“We need to continue to provide innovative opportunities to engage our members in activities that stimulate their development, and encourage them to contribute their own knowledge and experiences,” Zigler says. “By sharing, they inspire each other to learn. We have organized our staff to support the synergy that helps our members adapt successfully to an ever-changing, complex world.”
To spread the idea, five group facilitators are offering five free clinics and presentations to members of The Commons Club in neighboring Bonita Springs through April 2014.
“I have been able to see the effect that iLife has on our members and community, and it is awe-inspiring,” says Trish Rich, Spring Run’s Activities Coordinator. “I watch their faces light up with a renewed self-worth.”
Tell Us What You Think!
You must be logged in to post a comment.