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The following excerpts, taken from "The Story of Elderhostel," by Eugene
S. Mills, will help one better understand the relationship between Elderhostel
and the ILR movement.
"As Elderhostel and the Institute movement developed, it was obvious
to all observers that there was substantial compatibility between the
fundamental assumptions, values, goals and clientele of the two programs.
Both programs reject the view that aging is a process of failing energy
and value, but rather affirm the continuing promise and dignity of older
people. Both programs depend on the active, personal involvement of participants.
Both programs assume that learning capacity does not decrease as years
increase, but that in fact learning is a conducive means of self-fulfillment
for elders.
| However, Elderhostel and the Institutes did not develop
at an equal pace. By the mid-1980s Elderhostel was growing at an astonishing
rate of 20 to 30 percent per year, while the Institute program was
expanding much more slowly. Furthermore, Elderhostel had established
a balance between decentralized programming and a highly centralized
national headquarters, but the Institute movement had no real center.
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Leaders of various Institute programs had for a number of years sought
a national mechanism to coordinate their efforts. The Administration and
Board of Directors of Elderhostel, equally aware of the programs potential
for mutual benefit, engaged in information discussions with Institute
officials."
Meetings were held to explore the "the desirability and feasibility of
having Elderhostel serve as a national coordinating organization for the
Institute movement." As a result, in October of 1988, the Elderhostel
Institute Network was established, giving Elderhostel official national
coordinating responsibilities.
"The Elderhostel Institute Network represents a practical embodiment
of the two programs commonality of concern and their shared sense of commitment
to elder education. From the Networks inception to the present, Elderhostel
has made clear that it is coordinating and assisting the development of
the Institute movement, not presuming in any way to direct or control
it. The relationship is symbiotic and friendly."
Elderhostels support of the Institute Network has resulted in more than
200 new ILRs being developed since 1988. Elderhostels commitment to the
Learning in Retirement movement has also resulted in a substantial list
of benefits being made available to established ILRs.
Mills, E., The Story of Elderhostel, (1993), University Press of New
England, Hanover, NH (pages 167-168)
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