Education
Education in Spartanburg County, South Carolina is very easily attainable by anyone who wishes to participate. Seniors can take audit courses at the University of South Carolina Upstate campus free of charge or they can become an enrolled student with little effort.
There is a wide array of courses available at Spartanburg Community College and Converse College has a Lifelong Learning Institute. Spartanburg Methodist College is a two-year institution that has its roots in the local textile industry. Wofford College is a four-year nationally ranked institution with a wonderful reputation in higher learning.
Senior Centers of Spartanburg strives to present educational and wellness programs that will augment seniors' lives in a positive manner and allow them to remain alert, active and part of their communities.
The Chronic Disease Self Management Program (CDSMP) is a six-week, two hour per week program developed by Stanford University. Senior Centers received an initial three year grant (2007) through the Lt. Governor's Office on Aging and NCOA to begin the program. The program is administered by trained facilitators; two staff members are Master Trainers, and can teach others to become trained facilitators. Using techniques such as brainstorming and action plans, participants can learn how to better manage their chronic diseases.
Matter of Balance (MOB) is an eight week program that can be presented twice a week for one month or can be presented once a week for eight weeks. Classes for 2 hours each session and learn techniques and exercises to help prevent falls. This program mirrors one developed by Maine Health. Senior Centers has two staff members who are Master Trainers for this program as well.
