Upcoming Courses

Offerings

Prepare for retirement and learn key steps to creating a reliable, long-term income stream. We will discuss Social Security optimization, tax management techniques, risk management and investment strategies to both protect and grow your income during retirement. Don't get caught unprepared for retirement.


October 13-15, 2026 | 5:30pm-7:30pm PDT | Bend
Develop your comprehension skills, grammar base and passion for the Spanish language with music. Using a different song each week, this contextually rooted and culturally rich medium will guide you through the practice of speaking Spanish and incorporating it into your everyday life. New materials are added each session, so returning students are always welcome. Recommended preparation: Intermediate to Advanced Spanish language skills.


November 16, 2026 to December 7, 2026 | 12:00pm-1:00pm PST | Online
What can I do to maintain optimal brain function through life? This class will review important science-based principles of maintaining brain health and how to develop and keep brain-healthy habits.


Tuesday, October 6, 2026 | 5:00pm-6:30pm PDT | Bend
Did you know that bees are responsible for one-third of every bite of food that goes into your mouth? Honeybee populations have experienced a sharp decline in some regions. You can help! In this class, join local Master Beekeeper Jimmy Wilkie to learn all about the basics of beekeeping in Central Oregon. You will learn basic honey bee biology, understand how and why honey bees do what they do, identify the different products of the beehive and talk about the benefits of bee products and how they can be used in our everyday lives. Explore what it takes to become a beekeeper, including a discussion of the tools, gear and hive equipment (cost, where to get bees, location and more), and learn about how best to support the natural progression of a hive throughout the year. This class will give you the knowledge you need to get started as a beekeeper, to support our natural environment, and to help grow the vital honeybee population!


October 19-21, 2026 | 5:00pm-8:00pm PDT | Bend
In this hands-on training, you will learn about the brain's natural tendencies and get the visual tools/strategies that best support the brain to get things done. You will also discover how to improve your ability to focus, avoid procrastination, prioritize your tasks and stop feeling overwhelmed. You will leave this 3-hour hands-on course with an easy-to-follow action plan.


Tuesday, November 10, 2026 | 9:00am-12:00pm PST | Online
In this hands-on training, you will learn about the brain's natural tendencies and get the visual tools/strategies that best support the brain to get things done. You will also discover how to improve your ability to focus, avoid procrastination, prioritize your tasks, and stop feeling overwhelmed.


Friday, November 6, 2026 | 9:00am-12:00pm PST | Online
Buddha taught we all have a naturally conscious and loving presence. However, we get distracted by our reactions to life situations and develop habits of mind that overshadow our original compassionate nature. This class will explore the Buddhist point of view by exploring the principles and practices of the tradition that help us reawaken the original mind


October 15, 2026 to November 19, 2026 | 7:00pm-8:30pm PDT | Bend
Suppose you know nothing about the outdoors and have no experience with basic wilderness survival skills. You want to learn more, but where do you start? This class takes the beginner from a zero skills base to a basic knowledge of what it takes to survive anywhere. Wilderness survival skills have a direct carryover into other survival scenarios, and we'll show how to apply basic techniques to different situations. There will be a lot of hands-on instruction. At the end of the course, each student will know what materials will create a unique survival kit that can be used anywhere. Final day is a field day to put your new skills to the test!


January 30, 2027 to March 6, 2027 | 10:00am-12:00pm PST | Bend
Take your outdoor cooking skills to the next level with the timeless art of Dutch oven cooking. In this hands-on class, you'll learn how to prepare delicious meals over a campfire using cast iron cookware, foil and charcoal. Whether you're camping, hunting, overlanding or simply enjoying your backyard fire pit, you'll gain practical techniques for creating flavorful, satisfying meals in the outdoors.


November 5-19, 2026 | 6:00pm-8:00pm PST | Bend
From pollinators and bats to beavers, birds of prey and large carnivores, Oregon's wildlife plays a vital role in the health and resilience of our ecosystems. In this six-part series, presented in partnership with Think Wild, Central Oregon's wildlife hospital and conservation center, participants will explore the remarkable species that inhabit our forests, rivers, deserts and communities. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, nature lover, lifelong learner or aspiring conservationist, this series offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of Central Oregon's wildlife and discover meaningful ways to contribute to its future.


October 6, 2026 to December 15, 2026 | 5:30pm-7:00pm PDT | Bend
Using a mixture of lecture and hands-on application, your expert instructor will guide you through the importance of using scale and design before building, foundation basics, the components of a typical wall framing system, framing and truss layout and roof system basics. You'll learn how to safely use construction tools and tricks of the trade for basic construction for homeowners. Great for students who want to learn about home/project-based construction. Tools provided. Students will need to provide their own construction-appropriate gloves.                


November 7-8, 2026 | 8:00am-2:00pm PST | Redmond
Amateur Radio (ham radio) is a popular hobby and service that brings people, electronics and communication together. Before you can get on air, you need to be licensed and understand the rules to operate legally. This course will help you prepare to pass the Ham Radio Licensed Technician test, and obtain your license, so you can begin your journey into ham radio. The curriculum is primarily guided self-study and is approved by the Amateur Radio Relay League (ARRL) and the FCC. The class will end at 4pm with a 45-minute licensing test.


Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 8:30am-5:30pm PDT | Bend
Did you know henna has a rich history dating back to the Egyptians? Also known as "mehndi", this class explores the style of henna, its vast cultural traditions and safe application on the body and other textiles. The course covers application tools, including how to roll your own henna cone, and a selection of essential designs to jumpstart your artistic style. You will walk away with a deeper understanding of henna's roots as a form of body art and its therapeutic value. You'll also have a better understanding of henna safety and the precautions needed in using various ingredients. You'll come away from this class with your very own custom henna kit that includes all-natural henna paste, aftercare information and everything you need to practice on your own or with others!

**For health & safety, mild essential oils will be used in this course. An alternate paste will be available for those who are sensitive to lemons or the topical use of essential oils. Please let the instructor know ahead of time if you have been diagnosed with G6 anemia.


This course contains no sessions at this time.
This course is designed for students new to pickleball. Covers the fundamental skills, rules and strategies of the game; the basic strokes, such as the forehand, backhand, volley and serve; the game's scoring system and court etiquette. Emphasizes fun, fitness and developing confidence in gameplay. This is a non-credit Community Education course, taken with credit students. You will not receive college credit.


January 4, 2027 to March 10, 2027 | 8:00am-9:20am PST | Bend
This course challenges students with a basic knowledge of pickleball to improve their skills and understanding of the game. Focuses on refining shot techniques, learning more advanced strategies and improving overall court awareness. Coaches shot accuracy and power. Applies complex tactics for singles and doubles. Helps students enhance competitive edge and prepares them for more advanced play. This is a non-credit Community Education course, taken with credit students. You will not receive college credit.


January 4, 2027 to March 10, 2027 | 10:00am-11:20am PST | Bend
This advanced-level pickleball course is designed for students who have mastered scoring, fundamental strategies and a variety of shots. The course emphasizes competitive play and focuses on game analysis, strategic decision-making and refining shot selection under different game conditions. Students will enhance their ability to anticipate opponents' moves, improve consistency and execute advanced tactics through drills, match play and structured feedback. By the end of the course, students will develop a deeper understanding of competitive play dynamics, positioning and shot precision, preparing them for higher-level recreational or tournament play. This is a non-credit Community Education course, taken with credit students. You will not receive college credit.


January 5, 2027 to March 11, 2027 | 1:00pm-2:20pm PST | Bend
This advanced-level pickleball course is tailored for experienced players who have mastered basic skills and are ready to elevate their game. The focus is on enhancing strategic thinking, shot precision and competitive performance through in-depth analysis and high-level drills. This is a non-credit Community Education course, taken with credit students. You will not receive college credit.


January 5, 2027 to March 9, 2027 | 3:00pm-4:20pm PST | Bend
Alfred Hitchcock is a director of suspenseful thrillers, but his films can also include comedy, romance, melodrama and psychological complexity. With some typical samples from his British and American periods, the course will explore his preoccupations with guilt and innocence, murder and justice, a naive hero and a beguiling heroine who is both icy and passionate. Beginning with a train mystery, we will survey a variety of other Hitchcock plots: an unlikely murderer, an analysis of madness, a romantic obsession, and an action-packed spy thriller. We will consider both the variety and the consistency of Hitchcock's film techniques. The course will meet once weekly for five weeks, viewing a feature film during each class. A short lecture will usually precede the viewing to highlight themes and connections among the works. Class discussion will follow the screening.


October 5, 2026 to November 2, 2026 | 4:00pm-6:30pm PDT | Bend
Strengthen your relationship through the transformative conversations that foster deeper connection, trust and emotional intimacy. Based on Dr. Sue Johnson's book Hold Me Tight, this interactive series guides couples through the seven essential conversations that help partners better understand one another, navigate conflict with compassion and create more secure, resilient relationships. Each session focuses on one chapter of the book and includes guided discussion and practical communication tools and exercises that allow couples to apply what they are learning. Whether you are looking to deepen an already strong relationship or rebuild connection after challenges, this series offers a supportive, engaging space to grow together. Note: Couples should purchase a copy of Hold Me Tight by Dr. Sue Johnson before the first session.


January 26, 2027 to March 9, 2027 | 5:30pm-7:30pm PST | Bend
Ever feel like life is just happening to you instead of the other way around? This workshop is for anyone ready to change that. Based on Jack Canfield's New York Times bestseller The Success Principles?, this class walks you through five practical steps for building a life you actually chose: uncovering your true values and purpose, taking ownership of your outcomes, getting honest about what you really want (not just what you feel obligated to do), clearing out what's holding you back, and creating a real plan to get there. You don't need a five-year plan or a big life crisis to benefit. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and an open mind. You'll leave with clarity, a personal action plan, and tools you can use right away, at home, at work, or wherever you want your next chapter to begin. Open to all adults curious about personal growth. No prior knowledge of The Success Principles? required.


Thursday, November 19, 2026 | 5:30pm-8:30pm PST | Bend
Learn what you need to know to make the most of your Social Security before it's too late!


Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 5:30pm-7:30pm PST | Prineville
What moves people? What makes a live performance effective? What inspires feeling and speaks meaning-often without words? 
All you have to do is show up and be yourself, and together we will learn performance techniques you can use to express your own experiences and ideas, whether it's for a live performance or the stage of life.
Everyone can develop skill, and this class celebrates participants of all levels of experience and talent-from those who have no prior experience of any kind, to those who may have a history in theater or other kind of performance.
Provided materials and experiential activities will help all participants build out and refine their personal tool kit or repertoire for expression. You will enhance your abilities to collaborate and communicate as part of the creative process, while also discovering and deepening a mastery over your personal performance language for expressing meaning.


January 23, 2027 to February 6, 2027 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure what comes next with a business challenge or opportunity, or in your personal life? Mind mapping can help you see the big picture, organize complex ideas, identify connections and turn possibilities into action. 

In this hands-on workshop designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners, or anyone looking to learn techniques to manage a busy life or start a new project, participants will learn a simple visual thinking technique they can immediately apply. All will create a map about a real challenge or opportunity they are facing whether it's business or personal, and leave with greater clarity, the ability to see connections that might otherwise be missed and actionable next steps to move forward with. 


Wednesday, January 27, 2027 | 1:30pm-3:45pm PST | Bend
Leading a nonprofit is unlike any other leadership role. You are simultaneously the visionary and the operator, the culture-keeper and the fundraiser, the public face and the steady internal anchor. The demands are relentless, the resources are limited, and the stakes - for your mission and the people you serve - are real. This workshop is designed specifically for Executive Directors, Board of Directors, and/or leadership teams who want to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and long-term sustainability. We will examine the unique pressures of the ED role, build practical frameworks for decision-making and delegation, and explore how to cultivate a healthy organizational culture.


Wednesday, October 14, 2026 | 2:00pm-5:00pm PDT | Bend
This course is designed to provide the student with the necessary knowledge and skills to care for an injured or suddenly ill person in a remote location. The methods and protocols presented follow the Wilderness Medical Society guidelines for a 16 hour certification and are specific to a wilderness setting. The Wilderness Medical Society defines wilderness as a remote geographical location more than one hour from definitive care. This is a non-credit Community Education class. You will not receive college credit.


February 19-21, 2027 | 6:00pm-8:50pm PST | Bend
Gain rare access to one of the industry's leading financial planning software programs-guided by a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional. In this hands-on class, you'll create a personalized retirement analysis, explore strategies to maximize your dollars, and learn how to align your money with your values. You'll leave with a clearer picture of your financial path and a customized retirement plan you can put into action.


Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 6:00pm-8:30pm PST | Bend
Interested in going 'on-air' or learning about what DJ's do? In this hands-on course, learn the fundamentals of radio programming, including running the mixer and mics, planning for music/talk shows and developing your own style. Classes are open to all, but due to severely limited space, participants should have a genuine interest in becoming a radio show host or content producer with KPOV.


Saturday, November 7, 2026 | 9:00am-11:30am PST | Bend
Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of healing and self-improvement that everyone can learn and use! In this class, learn about the history of Reiki, how to use it to promote healing for yourself and others and practice giving and receiving Reiki. Students will receive a beautiful Reiki Level 1 manual and a personalized Reiki First Degree Certificate of Completion. This class qualifies for 5 Continuing Education hands-on contact hours for Oregon LMTs.


Saturday, October 24, 2026 | 10:00am-4:00pm PDT | Bend
Whatever it has been like to be us as individuals right now, we can likely all agree that the intensity, speed and uncertainty of change in our times makes them, as the ancient Chinese sayings goes, "interesting."

Despite the tone of this clever adage, the world's historical and spiritual traditions offer many diverse practices of being with change and uncertainty. This gathering offers a supportive community space for participants to explore their own experiences of transformation. Together, we will survey spiritual, emotional and body-based practices in an experiential and non-appropriative way.

Over the course of five meetings we will explore the question:

What offerings might some of humanity's mystical traditions have for us to meet the circumstances of our lives of, well, today?

From Zen Buddhist meditation and Sufi zikr, to contemplative practices, creative expression and personal reflection, we will come together in community simply for the purpose of having experiences. Through these practices and shared exploration, participants will have opportunities to shift consciousness in order to better meet whatever personal and societal issues live with and within us right now.

No prior experience is necessary. Come as your are, with curiosity, openness, and a willingness to explore mystical traditions.


January 19, 2027 to March 16, 2027 | 6:30pm-8:00pm PST | Bend
Bring your lunch and curiosity this Fall to the Hub, by Citizens4Community, in downtown Sisters for an engaging midday break where learning meets connection. Join COCC Community Education for presentations on topics ranging from area watersheds to the geology of Central Oregon to travel and beyond. Leave these Lunch and Learn sessions with insights into local, national, and international landscapes, and a desire to learn more! Your registration is good for all sessions, Sept - Nov. Please bring your own lunch.


September 23, 2026 to November 18, 2026 | 12:00pm-1:00pm PDT | Sisters
Ever wanted to travel internationally but weren't sure where to start? This course is designed for anyone who feels intimidated by international travel, hasn't traveled much (or at all) or simply wants to travel smarter. Led by an experienced international tour leader, you'll learn what gear is actually worth packing, the best planning resources and apps, how to choose between guided, independent and group tour styles (including options built around service work, wildlife encounters, cultural immersion and even high school student travel programs) and practical strategies for cutting travel costs without cutting the experience. Including how to travel more sustainably and responsibly along the way. We'll also cover tips for streamlining the whole process, from booking to boarding. The course wraps up with a look at an upcoming adult group tour to Namibia, featuring wildlife safaris and cultural experiences, offering a real-world example of these principles  (including sustainable, low-impact travel) in action for anyone interested in taking the next step.


Tuesday, January 19, 2027 | 6:00pm-7:30pm PST | Bend
In this course, learn essential building blocks for fiction and memoir including plot, setting, theme, characterization, point-of-view and dialogue. What is the hero's journey, and how does a writer develop a story concept into a page-turning best seller? Award-winning author and college educator Kathryn Mattingly will inspire you to begin your novel, complete your first draft or reassess what you have written so far. Open to novel and memoir writers of all levels!


October 6, 2026 to November 10, 2026 | 5:00pm-7:00pm PDT | Sisters