In 2004, the ILR supported the UF Center for Gerontology Studies by partnering with them in providing a monetary award to the students who were runners-up to the Cluff Award winners. An undergraduate and a graduate student are selected to receive the ILR Award. After the Center was closed in 2006, the ILR and UF Institute on Aging continued the partnership of this award until 2022.
With the help of the Institute on Aging, the ILR created the Outstanding Mentor Award in 2009. This award recognized the outstanding UF faculty mentor in the field of aging.
The ILR also jumped into the digital world in 2009 with establishing the ILR website. The website features news and events, class bulletins and registration opportunity, among other things.
The ILR sponsored Student Symposium began in March of 2011. This was a joint effort with the Institute on Aging where 12 students are selected to present their research papers at Oak Hammock. The top three students receive a monetary award from the ILR. The approach was changed and expanded in 2012 to an exposition format with posters/displays on topics related to aging. Top rated posters receive awards. Three ILR members and UF colleagues serve as judges. Recently a similar program has been established with Santa Fe College to showcase student research products.
Since 2004, ILR has contributed over $48,000 in gifts/items to Oak Hammock. The list includes a grand piano, AV and sound equipment in the Multi-purpose Room, microphones for the Oak Room, Oak Room chairs, cabinets in the Acorn Room for the opera class DVDs, LCD projector for the Oak Room, and an upgraded projection screen in the Oak Room.
The ILR continues to be the vibrant community of retirees engaged in lifelong learning that was envisioned with programs dedicated to the growth and fulfillment of all participants. The ILR of Oak Hammock was recognized in 2010 by Clifton Larson Allen LLP as the number one lifelong learning institute connected with a CCRC in the nation. A recognition that the ILR is very proud to have received.