Learning Category: Workshops & Events

June 30, 2025, at 6:30 CT / 7:30 PM ET

Jaziyyah Higgins, known artistically as “Blu” is an experienced spoken word and traditional poet from Los Angeles, California.  Join us to discover and hone your unique poetic voice.

Blu will share his experiences and insights, providing valuable tips on crafting authentic and compelling spoken word pieces.  Whether you’re a seasoned poet or a curious beginner, you’ll find a supportive community ready to inspire and nurture your creativity.

All levels and abilities are welcome!

September 23, 2025, at 7:00 PM CT / 8:00 PM ET 

Olivia Matongo is the Vice President of Programs for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Illinois Chapter.  She heads a talented team across eight sites in delivering programs and initiatives focused on expanding reach of care and access to timely diagnosis as well as quality and safety of care for 2.2 million Illinoisans.

Join us for an important conversation with Olivia Matongo about Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive brain disorder that impacts nearly 6 million Americans and more than 55 million people worldwide.  In this session, you’ll learn about Alzheimer’s and how it affects the brain, discover steps you can take to help reduce the risks, and explore best practices of living well after a diagnosis.

May 13, 2025 at 6:30 PM CT / 7:30 PM ET

Asha Gaines-Smith is a visual artist and member of the New York City Center Creative Fellowship.  This class will guide you in observing and rendering the subtle details of inanimate subjects.

Engage with fellow art enthusiasts and learn to see the extraordinary in the ordinary.  All levels and abilities are welcome!

 

May 7, 2025, at 7:30 PM CT/ 8:30 PM ET

Celina Merrill is a dancer trained in multiple styles of dance.  She is classically trained in ballet, which has allowed her to develop many routines for stretching and strengthening her muscles – and yours, too, as you get older.

Join us as Celina shares her expertise and techniques for achieving a dancer’s grace and strength.

All levels and abilities welcome!

March 4, 2025 at 7:00 pm CT/8:00 ET

Discover how to effortlessly share your creative video projects directly from your smartphone, and learn about different platforms, best sharing settings, and strategies for reaching a wider audience. Whether you want to connect with friends or engage with followers, our expert will guide you through the best practices for sharing your videos effectively.

February 6 and February 13, 2025 at 10:00 AM CT/ 11:00 AM ET

Join us for a special movement session with Celina Merrill, a classically trained ballerina, as she shares stretching and strengthening techniques designed to enhance flexibility, posture, and strength – no dance experience needed!

This session is for all levels and abilities, so bring your energy and let’s move together!

January 14, 2025 and January 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT 

In this 2-part series, participants will explore the basics of pencil drawing and learn techniques like shading, line work, and sketching. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking to brush up on your skills, you’ll gain the confidence to create your own drawings and express your creativity. This class will focus on: lines, shapes, values, and space. 

Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. EST/7:00 p.m. CST/5:00 p.m. PST

Donna Gaines hosts a conversation with storyteller and author Arionne Nettles about her latest book, We Are the Culture.  Learn how you can craft your own narrative and have a chance to win an autographed copy of her book!