Empowerment University Expands Across Metro Atlanta

What began as an innovative educational pilot program for seniors at Jewish HomeLife’s Berman Commons has rapidly grown into one of Metro Atlanta’s most inspiring enrichment movements for older adults. This summer, Oy Vey VR, Inc. proudly announced the expansion of Empowerment University for Seniors (Empower U) into multiple elder care communities across the region, bringing immersive learning, meaningful engagement, and joyful connection to seniors living in assisted living and memory care settings.

Now underway at communities including Berman Commons, several Brickmont Senior Living properties, and expanding into Sunrise Senior Living communities including Brighton Gardens, the Empower U Summer Trimester is already generating excitement among residents, caregivers, families, and staff alike.

This season’s class lineup features a remarkable collection of immersive educational experiences designed specifically for seniors, including: A Glimpse of Jerusalem; A Deep Dive with Dolphins; America at 250: A Red, White and Blue Birthday; Flowers That Changed the World; Morty’s Masterclass Series – The History of Dogs; and many more engaging adventures through history, science, culture, travel, music, and nature.

Each class combines storytelling, fascinating visuals, conversation, music, and in many sessions, immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences that transport residents into the heart of the subject matter. Whether “walking” the ancient streets of Jerusalem, diving beneath the ocean alongside dolphins and blue whales, or reliving the excitement of America’s Bicentennial celebrations, residents are experiencing something far more meaningful than entertainment alone — they are reconnecting with curiosity, memory, emotion, and each other.

“At Empower U, we believe the desire to learn and explore never disappears,” said Stuart Steiner, founder of Empower U. “What we’re seeing inside these communities is extraordinary.

Residents who may normally sit quietly are suddenly laughing, participating in discussions, sharing memories, and looking forward to the next class days in advance. Families are telling us their loved ones continue talking about the classes long after they end. That emotional spark is exactly why Empower U exists.”

One recent class, A Glimpse of Jerusalem, invited residents on a breathtaking journey through thousands of years of history — from the days of King David and King Solomon to the modern-day marvels of Jerusalem today. Another favorite, A Deep Dive with Dolphins, filled classrooms with smiles and amazement as residents explored ocean life, incredible underwater footage, and uplifting stories about dolphins and whales that sparked both wonder and heartfelt conversation.

“Programs like Empower U remind us that aging does not mean the end of growth, curiosity, or imagination,” said Sam Cohn, client relations manager at Berman Commons Assisted Living and Memory Care. “The atmosphere completely changes during these classes. Residents become students again — excited, engaged, and connected.”

If you or a family member are interested in experiencing an Empowerment University for Seniors class firsthand, a limited number of guest seats and scholarship opportunities are available at participating communities throughout Metro Atlanta.

For more information about attending a class, sponsorship opportunities, or community partnerships, please contact Stuart Steiner at 404-569-7254 or by email at stuart@oyveyvr.org.