OASIS has been transformed recently. The new business model nationally is for each city's OASIS to become their own 501(c)(3) charitable organization to foster sustainability. The previous structure was to have a major corporate sponsor (previously L.S. Ayres/Macy's at Glendale), providing office and classroom space, and a major sponsor providing the 501(c)(3) support (previously Methodist Hospitals).

In their words... "OASIS is a national education organization dedicated to enriching the lives of adults age 50 and older through lifelong learning and service. Offering stimulating programs in the arts, humanities, health, technology and volunteer service, OASIS brings people together to learn, lead and contribute in their communities."

Flanner and Buchanan joined the effort when they moved their administration space from the neighborhood locations into their downtown facility. This opened space at their East Washington, Speedway and Broad Ripple locations. Flanner and Buchanan offered these spaces to Indianapolis OASIS.

"This was a wonderful gift," explained Mary Dorney, OASIS Program Manager. "We have use of this whole downstairs area [of the 1305 Broad Ripple Avenue Flanner and Buchanan]. They have supported us with phones and furniture."

Indianapolis OASIS is also now working with Indy Parks to add more senior programs in the city parks. Indianapolis OASIS now runs the senior programs at Broad Ripple Family Center at Broad Ripple Park, at Krannert Family Center (previously the Krannert YMCA) at 605 S. High School Road, and a couple of art and exercise classes at Garfield Park Arts Center in Garfield Park at 2432 Conservatory Drive.

The Glendale/Northside area boasts the largest participation in the OASIS system nationwide. There are 27,000 members in Indianapolis. The Fall 2010 catalog is out, listing hundreds of classes in the categories of Arts, Computer, Enrichment, Health and Wellness, Performing Arts, and Special Events. There is still time to register for Fall classes at www.oasisnet.org or by mail, using the form in the catalog. You can call the main OASIS office at 317-396-3751 Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.