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About Us | Forever Learning Institute Welcome to Forever Learning InstituteLearning Never Gets Old.
Discover new interests, build lasting friendships, and experience the joy of lifelong learning.
For more than 50 years, Forever Learning Institute has brought adults 50 and older together to learn, grow, and connect.
Explore Our Courses →Discover Our Story
Learning, friendship, and community at Forever Learning.Who We AreA Community Built Around the Joy of Learning
At Forever Learning Institute, we believe curiosity has no age limit and learning is one of life's greatest pleasures.
As Michiana's largest educational nonprofit serving older adults, we offer opportunities to discover new interests, share experiences, develop friendships, and remain engaged in the community.
Our volunteer instructors generously share their knowledge and enthusiasm. There are no tests, grades, or homework. Just the pleasure of learning together.
50+Years of Lifelong Learning2,000Students and Teachers
2025-26350Classes and Travel Opportunities
2025-26Our PurposeOur Mission
To improve the quality and dignity of senior adult life through continuing intellectual challenge, spiritual reflection, and social interaction.
Forever Learning welcomes adults age 50 and older of every race, ethnic origin, nationality, religion, disability, educational background, gender, and orientation. We believe everyone deserves opportunities to remain intellectually curious, socially connected, and actively involved in life.
The Forever Learning ExperienceMore Than Classes. A Community.
Forever Learning is a place where interests become passions, classmates become friends, and every day offers something new to discover.
01Lifelong Discovery
Explore a wide variety of courses designed to challenge the mind, encourage creativity, and inspire new interests.
02Meaningful Friendships
Connect with people who share your interests and discover the joy of learning in a welcoming, supportive community.
03Learning Without Pressure
No homework, tests, or grades. Our classes are offered simply for the pleasure of learning, exploring, and growing.
04The Gift of Service
Our volunteer instructors share their time, talents, and experience, enriching the lives of others while finding purpose and fulfillment themselves.
Father Louis J. Putz, C.S.C.1909 - 1998Our FounderA Vision That Continues to Inspire
Forever Learning Institute began with the vision of Father Louis J. Putz, C.S.C., a Holy Cross priest and former University of Notre Dame professor.
As he approached retirement in the early 1970s, Father Putz became deeply interested in what he called the "third age" of life.
He believed that older adults possessed extraordinary knowledge, experience, and talents that could enrich their communities.
"Service adds years to your life, and life to your years."His vision was to create a place where older adults could continue learning, develop friendships, remain active, and share their gifts with others.
The Three Ages of Life
Father Putz described life as having three important stages:
LearningThe years of education and preparationEarningThe years of work and responsibilityReturningThe years of sharing experience and giving backFather Putz believed the third age should be a time of purpose, growth, service, and meaningful engagement. That belief became the foundation of Forever Learning Institute.
Establishing a School for Seniors
On May 24, 1974, Father Putz assembled an advisory group to establish the mission, goals, and structure of a new school for older adults.
He recruited volunteer instructors who would share their knowledge without compensation.
The first executive director was Sister Madeleine Adamczyk, Ph.D., an accomplished educator who had served as a teacher, professor, and college dean.
Father Putz initially hoped to enroll 40 students. Instead, 115 students registered for 22 classes during the first semester.
More than 50 years later, his vision continues to flourish throughout the Michiana community.
Our JourneyMore Than 50 Years of Learning
From a small group of enthusiastic learners to a thriving educational community, Forever Learning has continued to grow while remaining faithful to its founding vision.
1974Forever Learning opens at the Sisters of St. Joseph novitiate on South Greenlawn Avenue. The first semester welcomes 115 students into 22 classes.
1979Forever Learning moves to the former St. Patrick's Grade School on South Scott Street in South Bend.
2006Forever Learning establishes its main campus at the Little Flower Parish Center on North Ironwood Road.
2018With generous donor support, Forever Learning establishes an endowment at the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County.
2024Forever Learning celebrates its 50th anniversary, honoring five decades of education, friendship, and community service.
2026Forever Learning continues serving thousands of students and expanding opportunities for lifelong learning throughout Michiana.
The Forever Learning CommunityLearning Is Better Together
The heart of Forever Learning is the connection between people.
Whether discovering a new interest, exploring a familiar subject, or sharing years of experience, our students and instructors create a welcoming environment where everyone belongs.
These connections often grow beyond the classroom into lasting friendships.
Voices of Our CommunityWhat Our Students Are Saying
"The people that I meet become friends, and then family, and then we all learn together."
James Kane - Student"It's too good an experience not to try."
Margaret Whitmer - Teacher and Student"The participants are intelligent, motivated, and enthusiastic."
James Field - Student"It keeps me on my toes. It makes me study, and reach, and dig deeper into a subject... into myself."
Barbara Jung - Teacher"It fills what work used to fill. Work gave us a reason to do things, a social life, and intellectual stimulation. All of those things are here and better, because we get to choose what we do."
Steven Gable - Teacher and Student"I've made new friends and over the years have gotten to know many who share similar interests."
Dennis Wasikowski - StudentLearning Throughout the YearThere's Always Something Happening
Forever Learning offers two 10-week semesters in the spring and fall, along with shorter five-week winter and summer sessions.
In addition to classes, we offer educational events, social activities, and travel opportunities.
Our main campus at the Little Flower Parish Center includes classrooms, lecture halls, a gymnasium, and gathering spaces. Additional classes are offered at community partner locations.
Community RecognitionHonored to Serve Michiana
We are grateful for the recognition Forever Learning has received for its service to our community.
Age of Excellence Award
REAL Services
2015 and 2021Distinguished Community Service Award
South Bend Alumni Association
2018Your Next Chapter Starts HereCome Learn With Us
Whether you want to discover a new interest, meet new friends, share your knowledge, or simply enjoy learning, there's a place for you at Forever Learning.
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