AU OUTREACH eNews

August 2025 Volume 3, Issue 12

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Kyle Kostelecky Ph.D., associate professor in Human Development & Family Science, leads the course where undergraduate students exploring adult development and aging engage in group discussions with OLLI members. Students discuss their interests and OLLI members share insights from their unique perspectives and lived experiences. Topics include the environmental context of older adults, changes in personality over the lifespan, lifelong relationships, work, retirement, leisure, and the concept of successful aging. 



Participants in the class have found mutual respect and admiration in one another leading to genuine friendships and mentorships that extend beyond the classroom. One sophomore exclaimed, “I love hearing about the amazing lives they’ve lived. I consider them my local grandparents!” Class members are encouraged to share their viewpoints candidly to better understand the human condition at any age. 

Faculty interested in developing an intergenerational course or collaborating on research are encouraged to contact Program Administrator Tenisha King at tking@auburn.edu.

Circle K International at AU Supports Seniors Through Successful Supply Drive

Circle K International at Auburn University (CKI-AU) recently completed a successful supply drive for the residents of Timothy Manor and EASEhouse, senior-living residential communities in the area. The initiative, led by CKIAU president Josiah Yarborough, was a powerful demonstration of student-led service and community care.

CKI-AU, a collegiate branch of the global Kiwanis International service organization, is known for its commitment to meaningful service. Each semester, members engage in projects that support the local food bank, nursing homes, animal shelters and more, living by their motto: “Live to serve, love to serve.”

This particular project focused on addressing a critical but often overlooked need—basic toiletry & hygiene supplies for seniors living on fixed incomes. Many residents at Timothy Manor struggle to afford everyday essentials like soap, toothpaste, and toilet paper due to the high costs of medications, transportation, and healthcare.

“There have been tons of people who have helped me out throughout my life, and I think that giving back is really important,” said Yarborough, reflecting on the motivation behind the project.

The supply drive was made possible through the support of several community partners who also served as drop-off locations, including the Office of Public Service, Auburn Public Library, Wesley Foundation, OLLI at Auburn, and Mt. Vernon Baptist Church (who in addition, collected and delivered supplies for 25 EASEhouse residents). Lee-Russell Council of Governments provided bags for the Timothy Manor distribution. Auburn University Outreach employees also made special donations to support the drive.

Kemberly Daniel, the Service Coordinator at Timothy Manor, plays a vital role in supporting the well-being of residents aged 62 to 90. She emphasized the importance of this kind of outreach: “If they’re spending an exorbitant amount on medications and doctor’s appointments and paying for gas, for rides and things of that nature, it doesn’t leave a lot of room for the basics like a toothbrush.”

Daniel’s work highlights the broader issue facing many seniors across Alabama and beyond—having to choose between health and hygiene. “No senior should be forced to make a decision to forgo medications or to forgo anything that’s an absolute necessity to pay for another,” she said.

Thanks to CKI-AU and the Office of Public Services’s efforts, residents at Timothy Manor received much-needed supplies and, just as importantly, a reminder that they are seen, valued, and supported. “Providing these toiletry supplies allows residents to worry less and feel comforted knowing that someone is caring about them,” Yarborough added.

CKI-AU continues to welcome support for its service projects. Donations can be made via Venmo to @CircleK-International-4, and more information is available at circlekau.org. For questions or to get involved, email circlek@auburn.edu.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CIRCLE K @AU

Outreach Global Returns to Ghana for 2025 Service-Learning Program

Outreach Global successfully relaunched its signature Ghana Service-Learning Program from June 6–18, 2025. A team of Auburn students, faculty and staff engaged in cultural immersion, educational exchange and five days of impactful service at local clinics and schools in Accra and Cape Coast. The program was made possible through partnerships with Ghanaian institutions and generous support from the on campus Auburn University family and community organizations. Applications for the 2026 program will open in fall 2025.

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RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY!

We’re proud to announce that Dr. David J. Weerts, professor of higher education and associate vice provost for public engagement at the University of Minnesota, will keynote the 2025 Outreach & Engaged Scholarship Symposium at Auburn University on August 28.

A leading voice in university-community engagement and public scholarship, Weerts brings decades of experience shaping how institutions build strategic partnerships for the public good.

This year’s theme, “Catalytic Engagement through Strategic Access, Opportunity & Collaboration,” invites faculty, staff and community partners to explore innovative approaches to engaged scholarship.

Read more about Dr. Weerts here.

🔗 Learn more and reserve your seat.

Reach out to the Office of Faculty Engagement to learn more about the Outreach & Engaged Scholars Recognition Ceremony and the Dr. Royrickers Cook Endowed Engagement Award.

GEDI hosts 41st Intensive Economic Development Training Course

The Government & Economic Development Institute (GEDI) hosts its 41^st class of the Intensive Economic Development Training Course fueled by Spire beginning in July at the Auburn University Hotel and Dixon Conference Center.

The Intensive course is divided into two, one-week sessions and introduces participants to all phases of economic development. The first week was held July 14-18 and is accredited by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). It fulfills one of the prerequisites for those who wish to take the exam for the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation. It will provide an in-depth overview of general economic development concepts and principles. The second week, which is scheduled to take place September 8-11, will focus on important Alabama issues and resources. 

Program leaders and faculty represent the field’s most effective practitioners from throughout the state and across the nation. Auburn has hosted the Intensive Economic Development Training Course for over four decades and it remains one of the most informative and critical educational programs for professionals working in economic and community development. Program participants include economic developers, Chamber of Commerce staff, elected officials, community leaders, business owners and more.

A department of Auburn University Outreach, GEDI’s mission is to empower communities, businesses, and government leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to drive sustainable growth and positive change. Through strategic partnerships, innovative approaches, and dedicated outreach, GEDI plays a critical role in strengthening Alabama’s economic landscape. From training the next generation of public servants to equipping local businesses and economic developers with the skills necessary to thrive in a competitive market, GEDI’s programs help build better communities across the state. 

Intensive Economic Development Training Course at Auburn University



Follow some of our programming on social media:

AuburnServes

https://www.facebook.com/AuburnUniversityServes/

GEAR UP Achieve

GEAR UP Achieve - Facebook

Circle K International at Auburn

(student led community-service organization)

Circle K International at Auburn University - Facebook

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