Meet Our Interest Groups
Interest groups are a way to connect with like-minded retirees for fun, learning, to share a common passion, or just to make new friends. Each interest groups focus and coordinator email are listed under each Interest Group below.
Groups are open to all members, are self-governed and operate independently in their planned activities. Always check the Event Calendar to view group meetings and activities organized by color-coding and date.
If you have a passion that you would like to share, consider forming your own interest group by sending the details to [email protected]
Share Your Interest with Others
Click to Learn How!
UMRA Reads
UMRA Reads is a diverse group of members who meet monthly to read and discuss books across all genres, with a different genre each month. Meetings are usually on the 4th Wednesday of each month from 3-5pm ET via Zoom, with adjustments for holidays.
Current book list and meeting dates (pdf): 2025/26 Book Selections
Sample a Typical Book Discussion
Are you curious how an online discussion feels? Enjoy this recorded session discussing the May book selection with a retiree focus, ‘The Reluctant Fortune-Teller by Kesiah Frost.
Have a question? Contact Sharon at [email protected]
Listen to the audio Podcasts!
UMRA Travel Discussion
The group meets on the 4th Tuesday of every month, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Each meeting is either by Zoom or a hybrid meeting with in-person discussion with Zoom participation.
Contact Joe Marker at [email protected] to express interest.
Discussions available on YouTube!
UMRA Walks
UMRA Walks take monthly treks at different locations around the Ann Arbor area traversing along fully accessible paved pathways to enjoy fresh air and camaraderie. The pace of each trek is completely flexible. Some walkers choose to walk the designated round trip. Others choose a lighter pace stopping at benches to relax, chat, look at nature and soak up the sun.
For those who can stay after the walk, it is possible that small groups will spin off for coffee or lunch to nearby locations.
You are welcome to bring a guest if you like – friend, neighbor or grandchild.
Please contact Verna Bell ([email protected]) or Beverly Turner ([email protected]) to express interest or have suggestions. Check the Event Calendar to find out about upcoming walks.
UMRA Community Service
UMRA Community Service identifies and coordinates opportunities for UMRA members to volunteer in the community, either as an individual or part of a group of activities.
A special thanks to Karen Shill for coordinating.
The University of Michigan has a long tradition of volunteerism. UMRA is providing this collection of opportunities to make the review and selection process as easy as possible. Take some time to review these opportunities and see what might be a good fit for you, your interests and schedule.
Have a question? Contact the team at [email protected]
UMRA Bikes
Our members own many different kinds of bikes and roll at different speeds. We want to encourage anyone, regardless of skill or ability, to join this group. Our goal is social exercise, safety and fun, as we roll merrily along the area’s paved and off road trails.
UMRA Hikes
Hiking does not have to mean climbing large mountains or walking through uneven terrain. It can be as simple as walking on a groomed trail in a forest. Hiking is a great way to lead a more active lifestyle, enjoy all that nature has to offer, and spend more time with fellow hikers.
UMRA Kayaks
All kayakers of any level are welcome to join us throughout the summer as we kayak together on the Huron River and other water ways in Washtenaw County, and have fun in the process. Spouses are welcome.
Please contact Jean Shope at [email protected] to express interest 0r have suggestions. Check the Event Calendar to find out about upcoming kayaking opportunities.
UMRA Plays Mahjong
Mahjong is a tile-based game of skill, strategy and luck played by four players. The Interest Group is for beginners and players at all levels.
This SIG meets on Mondays, (not holidays), at 1:00pm at the Pittsfield Township Senior Center: 701 W. Ellsworth Road. Ann Arbor, MI. There is a nominal fee to join the Senior Center.
If you are curious, or looking for something interesting to do on Monday afternoons, please plan to show up. You will meet new UMRA friends and learn a very interesting game.
Have questions? Contract instructors and UMRA members Corrine Serrell and Kathy Fischer ([email protected]) to express interest, ask questions or learn more.
UMRA Golfs
All golfers of any level are welcome to join us throughout the summer as we golf and have fun in the process. Spouses are welcome.
Please contact Esrold Nurse at [email protected] to express interest, have suggestions, or to find out more about upcoming golfing opportunities.
UMRA Gaming
UMRA Gaming is the perfect place for retirees who love board games, card games, and tabletop adventures. Get ready to unleash your competitive spirit and make new friends.
Dive into a world of strategy and creativity as we gather to explore classic favorites and discover new gems. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, our welcoming community is here to share tips, strategies, and plenty of stories.
Please contact Dennis Drobeck at [email protected] to express interest, have suggestions, or to find out about upcoming gaming opportunities.
Music for FUN
Music for fun is for those interested in a music play-a-long gathering. The idea is to get together monthly playing your ukuleles, guitars, mandolins, kazoos, drums, banjo, spoons, etc. and singing to a prepared song list including the chords for various types of music.
We are amateurs, some just learning and others relearning their musical skills, who gather for the enjoyment of making music together.
If you are interested, please sign up through [email protected] or at the SIG sign up table during one of our monthly meetings. We’ll schedule a Zoom meeting in May to brainstorm how to get started.
UMRA Archery
UMRA Archery will meet on selected Sundays starting in late May 2025 from 2 to 4pm at a private range on the east side of Ann Arbor. There will be a few bows and arrows provided, but you are welcome to bring your own. The range will be supervised under the auspices of archers from a Medieval Re-enactment Group.
If you are interested in joining this SIG contact Liz Calhoun at [email protected], or sign up at the UMRA monthly meeting or on the UMRA website. You will then be notified which Sundays each month the range will be available.
