Benefits of Joining Monks Brook U3A
Here in Chandler’s Ford, we’re proud to be Monks Brook U3A, a thriving, welcoming group where we put enjoyment, friendship, fun, and shared learning at the heart of everything we do. We are part of the u3a, a worldwide organisation for those of us who have finished full-time work. With around 250 members in Monks Brook U3A, it’s easy to find friends and activities you’ll love.
The u3a works on a self-help philosophy, we all get involved, share what we know, and learn from each other. Without our members, there would be no u3a and that’s what makes it so special. For a modest annual fee, at the time of writing £15 pa, members can join as many interest groups as they wish. When you join Monks Brook U3A, you will enjoy:
We share our knowledge, experiences, and skills, and in return, we develop ourselves while helping others to grow too.
It’s a win–win – we are “learning, laughing, and living” together. Getting involved is rewarding, brings companionship, and builds lasting friendships. Often, new groups grow from just a few of us who share an interest – and you don’t have to be an expert! Much of the fun is in learning together. We’re always open to ideas for new groups and activities.
MONTHLY MEETINGS
Monthly meetings are held on the 1st Wednesday of every month at St Boniface Church Hall, Hursley Road, Chandlers Ford.
Each month we have a different speaker to give a talk of general interest. The doors are open from 1:45pm allowing time to visit interest tables before the meeting starts at 2pm.
At the end of the meeting tea or coffee and a biscuit is provided and there is a chance to chat with other members.
The current membership of Monks Brook U3A is around 250. At first, most of them will be strangers, but once you get involved, you will soon make new friends.
GETTING INVOLVED
When you join Monks Brook U3A, you will gain access to the members’ area of the website. This has lots of information including details of the interest groups and contact details of the group leaders. The website also shows details of trips and visits which you can join. Getting involved, in however small a capacity, is a very good way of getting to know other members.
JOINING A GROUP
If you are interested in joining a group ring or email the contact person who will be able to tell you more about their activities and if there are vacancies. Interest groups often meet in members’ homes which can restrict numbers. If a group that interests you is full or no group exists, please contact the Groups Organiser.
NEWSLETTER
A newsletter is produced every 2 months. Content depends on members submitting information about their groups, and providing photos. The newsletter is circulated via email and included in the members’ area of the website.
MONKS BROOK U3A WEBSITE
Our website is full of information about all the activities. As a member you can register to access information about your own interest groups and activities open to all members. To register visit the website and follow the instructions. Monks Brook U3A also has a Facebook page.
U3A NATIONAL WEBSITE
There is a lot of information and advice on the national u3a website. The address is www.u3a.org.uk. You will need to register to sign in and gain access to the members’ area.
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION
Your annual subscription covers the period from 1st April until March 31st. At the time of writing £15pa.
Out of your payment, a sum is paid to the National Office to cover the services they provide plus insurance and five issues of the u3a national magazine, Third Age Matters, if requestedThe remainder is for the hire of the hall and kitchen at St Boniface, payments to speakers, six newsletters a year, maintenance of equipment, website support and admin expenses.
GETTING TO MEETINGS
If you are deterred from enquiring about interest groups because you would find it difficult to get to meetings it might be worth speaking to the Group Contact to see if anyone would be able to offer you a lift. Also if you have difficulty getting to the monthly meeting please speak to a member of the committee.