OLLI shared interest groups (SIGs) are a benefit offered to all OLLI members. The groups foster fellowship by allowing OLLI members to engage with others who share a common interest. SIGs complement and enhance College for Seniors classes and other programs offered by OLLI; they are not to compete with or duplicate them. Membership in SIGs is open to all OLLI members, based on the capacity of the group and any basic skill levels that might be required to participate. Commercial or professional solicitation for services or products is not permitted at SIG meetings.

SIGs provide OLLI members with an opportunity to get together with others to discuss a topic of interest (i.e. travel, poetry, politics) or to share an activity they have in common (art, bridge, gardening). A shared interest group is not exclusively social, though participation in these groups may contribute to camaraderie and building friendships. Staff and the leadership of the member engagement committee will review each SIG proposal to determine how a proposed SIG is designed to meet and balance its educational and social goals.

SIGs, even more than most OLLI programs, are member-driven, not staff-driven. They are established, managed and run by OLLI members. OLLI staff members schedule meeting space, maintain registration and rosters, and can offer some promotion of SIG activities in various OLLI publications. The OLLI member engagement committee works with staff and oversees SIGs as volunteer advisors and organizers.  A SIG’s vitality and success depends mainly upon the active participation and commitment of its own members.