FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the VSA?
The Virtual Senior Academy was created by the Jewish Healthcare Foundation in 2017, as a free program to connect adults 50 or older in the Pittsburgh region through interactive courses online. The program has expanded and is now run by AgeWell at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh. We utilize Zoom to offer live learning experiences that cover a wide range of topics. Some of our most popular classes are health and wellness, arts and music, book clubs, history, sports and current events.
Who can join the VSA?
Anyone! While the VSA is geared for those 50 and older, our content is for everyone. Please create and account to see our classes and learn more about us!
How do I sign up?
Please refer to the video or to the Step By Step Guide
How much are classes?
Classes are free! Create and account and sign up for classes you find interesting.
Who runs this program?
AgeWell at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh. Learn more about AgeWell at the JCC here
Who can I contact with questions or suggestions?
Simply email us at helpvsa@jccpgh.org
When are classes?
Classes vary but are typically Monday – Friday times vary between 9 am-5 pm. Who runs/teaches the classes? Our class facilitators are community members, like you, who have different backgrounds and want to share their passion and knowledge. Through presentations and interactive discussions, our goal is to offer a variety of programs and activities to help older adults remain active and engaged with their peers within the community.
Are these classes recorded? Do I have to be recorded?
Some of our classes are recorded for our video archive so they can be viewed later or if you miss the class. You DO NOT have to be recorded, and the facilitator will let you know ahead of time if they plan to record the class. You can you’re your camera off and change your name on Zoom if you wish to not be identifiable on the recording.
Do I need a camera?
No, but it is helpful. You also do not have to have your camera on during the class if you do not wish to have it on.
Do you provide the Zoom link for the class?
No. Once you sign into your account, there is a “Join Now” button that will redirect you to the Zoom room for the class you registered for. Refer to this video on how to join a class
Once in the class how do I use Zoom?
Please refer to the Video.
Where do I find class surveys?
Survey page Once the class is over, you should be automatically redirected to the past classes page that have survey buttons. Click the “Take Survey” button and answer the question and fill in any comments in the comment box.
I want to take a class that already happened but don’t see it? Where do I find it?
Please check our to see if the class was recorded. If you do not see what you are looking for, please send us an email at helpvsa@jccpgh.org asking for a class to be reoffered.
Do any of these classes happen in person?
Some of our classes do have a hybrid option, meaning you can sign up to view virtually on the VSA, or you can attend in person at the JCC. If the class is hybrid, it will be noted in the class description.