Featured Courses Retirement: Making Your Money Last 09/09/25 - 09/09/25 In this session we'll discuss ways to help you work toward achieving your retirement goals - what matters most to you. A key focus will be how to provide for your income needs, including your retirement income or the future. We'll also explore how to address important concerns such as inflation, health care expenses, market volatility and unexpected events. Understanding Identity Theft 06/17/25 - 06/17/25 Identity theft is a growing concern for all Americans. Join this course to learn how to: understand what identity theft is, minimize the risk of becoming a victim, recognize the signs that identity theft has occurred, respond effectively to a compromised identity, and discover how your financial institution can assist you. Drones in Agriculture 07/08/25 - 07/08/25 This class is designed to introduce participants to the practical applications of drone technology in modern farming. The class will cover the basics of drone operation, data collection, and how drones can be used for crop monitoring, irrigation management, and precision farming. The session will also include a live demonstration, showcasing real-world drone operations and their integration into agricultural workflows to enhance efficiency and productivity. Pivotal Events Leading Up to the Civil War 09/05/25 - 09/05/25 When did the American Civil War begin? The war began in 1861 and lasted until 1865; yet the decades leading up to the 1860s are pivotal in understanding why the war began. This class examines the culmination of events from the 1830s to the 1860s, which sparked secession and four long years of war. Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg and the Famous Address 09/19/25 - 09/19/25 Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address is his most famous speech. But little is discussed about his trip to Gettysburg and the events that unfolded while he was in the town. This class examines the hours Lincoln spent in Gettysburg and details the activities around Lincoln and his speech. The Civil War in the Western Frontier 10/03/25 - 10/03/25 While fought between North and South, the Civil War was about the West-specifically the expansion of slavery. This course explores the Western Frontier as a crucial but overlooked theater of war involving Union, Confederate, and Native forces, and examines how warfare there differed from traditional battles. CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 10/04/25 - 10/04/25 Do you enjoy mysteries and crime investigations? Learn "behind the scene" facts of several crimes such as homicides, robberies, stage crime scenes and more. You will get to review 3 cases and determine what is seen in the evidence. Civil War Congresses 10/17/25 - 10/17/25 After Southern secession in 1860, the 37th and 38th U.S. Congresses operated without opposition from pro-slavery legislators, passing landmark legislation that shaped the nation's future. At the same time, the Confederate Congresses struggled to govern a nation at war. This course examines how both governments used legislation to support their war efforts-and the limits of their success. Mustering Troops Out of Service after the Civil War 10/31/25 - 10/31/25 Lee's surrender marked the beginning of a massive demobilization. This course explores how Union and Confederate armies, prisoners, and the wounded were rapidly returned home after years of war. Mystery Shopping - Get Paid to Shop 11/08/25 - 11/08/25 Do you like to shop? You can get paid to shop at almost every local store in your area, plus there are many online shopping assignments you can do from home. Let Gina Henry show you how to avoid scam companies, find the top 100 mystery shopping companies, and earn income along with free hotel stays, free gas, free groceries, and more. History of the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade 11/14/25 - 11/14/25 Today the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is part of our American culture and Thanksgiving traditions. While not the longest running Thanksgiving parade, it is certainly the most popular. This class explores the reasons for the initial parade; the origins as a Christmas pageant beginning in 1924; the creative minds behind the floats and balloons; and the evolution of the parade through the decades embracing cultural icons along the way. Christmas in American Culture 12/05/25 - 12/05/25 Christmas holds a unique and powerful place in American culture, more significant than any other seasonal celebration. This course explores the history of the holiday, from the origins of December 25th to the rise of Santa, carols, cards, and commercialization, tracing how these traditions came to define the American Christmas. Save Money with Extreme Couponing! 10/14/25 - 10/14/25 Say goodbye to full-price shopping with coupons! Coupons aren't just for the frugal - they're for savvy shoppers who want to save money on everything they buy. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the couponing game, learn how to save money everyday with extreme couponing. 50 Money Making Side Hustles for Teens 10/05/25 - 10/05/25 Hey, Teen! Want to know the quickest way to make money as a teenager? It's through a side hustle! You don't need to wait until you're older-many side hustles fit easily into your teen life between classes and activities. They often don't require extra studying and can help you reach financial goals, like saving for a car.In this class, you'll learn how to fill out necessary legal forms and discover 50 profitable side hustle ideas. You'll also receive informative handouts for future reference. A Conversation on Grandparenting 10/09/25 - 10/09/25 Are you a "newer" grandparent or even an old pro? Join us for a welcoming and engaging discussion on the stages and styles of modern grandparenting. Drawing from a variety of books, studies, and shared experiences, we'll explore how the role of grandparents continues to evolve. This is a great opportunity to connect with others, reflect on your own journey, and exchange tips, strategies, and insights for navigating this special phase of life. Whether you're helping to raise your grandchildren or simply staying connected from afar, you'll find support, inspiration, and practical ideas in this thoughtful session. Are You in Command of Your Health...Or Is Your Health in Command of You? 10/21/25 - 10/21/25 Over the years, ongoing research and studies have contributed greatly to our understanding of how our bodies function and what supports cellular structure. Topics such as autophagy, apoptosis, and supporting the mitochondria will be explained and discussed. Get a better understanding of what impacts your optimal wellness. Beginner's Guide to Using ChatGPT (AI) for Writers 10/07/25 - 10/07/25 ChatGPT (AI) is here to stay and is the future for writers and content creators. Don't be left behind! No prior AI experience required. Do you want to learn how to incorporate the power of cutting-edge technology to gain ideas and inspiration, write web content, articles, and even novels or scripts? Join LeeAnne Krusemark and start building your expertise in the world of ChatGPT now! Creating Long-Term Income from Dividend Stock 10/14/25 - 10/14/25 During this session, we will learn how investing in companies that pay a dividend per share can create a income check that can potentially increase every year. Creative Writing 101: A Beginner's Guide 10/10/25 - 10/10/25 You don't need a degree in creative writing to be an exceptional writer and get paid for it! Anyone with a passion for writing can learn and enhance their skills in fiction and non-fiction. You don't need a degree in creative writing to become a successful writer! Anyone with a passion for writing can learn and enhance their skills in fiction and non-fiction. This class covers various forms of creative writing, including the top 10 tips for beginners, brainstorming techniques, and ways to bring your words to life with engaging descriptions. You'll also learn how to develop your unique writing style and monetize your work. Distracted Driving 10/13/25 - 10/13/25 Riverside's Distracted Driving class offers practical education on how to stay safer behind the wheel. Learn to recognize common distractions and how to avoid them, whether you're driving across town or across the country. The course also covers how to properly position yourself in your vehicle to reduce the risk of injury in the event of a crash. Using photos and real-life examples, we'll explore how kinetic energy impacts the body and why small adjustments can make a big difference. A must-attend for anyone who wants to be a safer, more aware driver. French-Canadian Heritage Wall Tour - Kankakee Community College 09/12/25 - 09/12/25 Join us for a guided tour of the French-Canadian Heritage Wall at KCC, a powerful visual tribute to the lives and legacies of French-Canadian families in our region. Learn about the rich cultural history represented in the display and discover how the wall connects to the broader French-Canadian Interview Project website. Don't miss this unique opportunity to explore and celebrate the vibrant French-Canadian roots of our community. Geology of Indiana State Parks 11/05/25 - 11/05/25 Indiana state parks are excellent places to learn about the fascinating geologic history of Indiana. These natural wonders set aside for your enjoyment display a wide variety of landscapes. In the north are well-preserved features produced by glaciers that rumbled through the region. To the south of glaciation is a rugged area with very different and interesting features. The colorful book included with the talk features all 24 parks and many natural areas. Have Fun Using Topographic Maps on Your Computer or Cellphone 11/11/25 - 11/11/25 Topographic maps offer a fun and fascinating way to explore the lay of the land-right from your chair! In this hands-on session, you'll discover a wide range of FREE online maps and learn just how easy it is to view and use them. We'll demonstrate step-by-step how to navigate these maps, and you'll have the chance to try it yourself using one of our computers or your cellphone. With access to a printer, you can even print detailed sections of any map you like. You'll be amazed at how much you can learn about where you live-or where you'd love to go-without ever leaving home. Printed instructions will be provided so you can continue exploring on your own. Don't miss this fun and eye-opening adventure into the world of topographic maps! How Are My Investments Taxed? 09/30/25 - 09/30/25 During this session, we will learn how different kinds of accounts and investments are taxed. We will also explore how to invest tax efficiently. Keep More of What You Earn with a Budget 09/20/25 - 09/20/25 11/13/25 - 11/13/25 Many people view budgeting as a strict diet, but it's not about depriving yourself of things you enjoy. It's about understanding the importance of managing your cash flow within a flexible and personalized budget. Creating a realistic budget doesn't have to be a painful experience! This class will teach you how to document your expenses, track your finances with or without personal budgeting software, and work together as a family to achieve common financial goals. You might even discover that you can start or increase your retirement savings! Take control of your money and prevent your money from controlling you! Medicare 101 09/10/25 - 09/10/25 10/08/25 - 10/08/25 Are you or a loved one nearing Medicare eligibility? Join us for an informative and easy-to-understand presentation that will guide you through the essentials of Medicare, including how it works, the different parts (A, B, C, D), enrollment periods and how to avoid penalties, costs and coverage options, as well as tips for choosing the right plan for your needs. Narcan/Naloxone - Understanding the Opioid Issue and How To Fight It 09/16/25 - 09/16/25 Substance Abuse Disorders are unfortunately very common and can be very easy to develop. This is especially true when it comes to opioids. This course helps to understand opioids better, as well as teach how to use Narcan/Naloxone, a nasal spray that helps reverse opioid overdoses. Learning about this issue can help your friends, family, and community at large. Navigating Difficult Conversations with Parents in Early Childhood 11/20/25 - 11/20/25 Building strong partnerships with families is essential in early childhood, but it's not always easy-especially when sensitive topics arise. This training equips educators with practical tools and strategies for approaching difficult conversations with empathy, clarity, and professionalism. Participants will learn how to prepare for challenging discussions, communicate concerns effectively, and foster collaborative relationships with families, all through a trauma-informed, mental health-focused lens. Put the Pencil Down and Play: The Importance of Play Over Worksheets in Early Childhood 10/23/25 - 10/23/25 In early childhood education, play is not just a break from learning-it is the learning. This training challenges the overuse of worksheets in early childhood classrooms and highlights the critical role of hands-on, play-based experiences in promoting development. Participants will explore how play supports cognitive, social-emotional, and physical growth, and learn how to align playful activities with early learning standards and developmental goals. The session includes practical strategies for replacing pencil-and-paper tasks with meaningful, engaging play that honors how young children learn best. Retirement 101 09/06/25 - 09/06/25 11/06/25 - 11/06/25 Do you often think "I'll never be able to retire"? Do you believe that you are too "broke" to start putting money away for retirement? Is your plan at work sufficient and are you putting the money away in the "right" places? Have you ever thought that you can't "afford to lose any money in the stock market"? In this class, you will learn the fundamentals of starting and planning for your retirement. Learn the difference between a Roth and a Pre-Tax investment and how they are affected by taxes. Learn the tax brackets and how to minimize your tax bite. However, money is only one aspect of retirement planning. This course blends financial education and life planning to help build your wealth, align your money with your values, and achieve your retirement lifestyle goals. Stop the Bleed 09/04/25 - 09/04/25 This course trains participants to control life-threatening bleeding using direct pressure, wound packing, and tourniquets. Attendees will also learn how blood thinner medications can impact bleeding control. The course empowers bystanders to respond quickly and effectively in emergencies until professional help arrives. Stroke Smart: Prevention, Recovery and Life Beyond 09/23/25 - 09/23/25 10/28/25 - 10/28/25 This course is designed to educate participants on all aspects of stroke. Topics covered will include understanding risk factors and warning signs to exploring treatment options, rehabilitation strategies, and lifestyle changes. Whether you are a stroke survivor, caregiver, or someone looking to reduce your risk, this course will provide up-to-date information to support a healthier lifestyle. The Chicago Blizzard of 1967 10/29/25 - 10/29/25 Do you remember where you were when Chicago was buried under 23 inches of snow? Relive one of the city's most memorable storms as we walk through the timeline of events, stunning photos of towering snow drifts, and stories of how the city came to a standstill. We'll discuss the storm's impact on daily life, the heroic cleanup efforts, and the lasting memories it created. Bring your own stories and enjoy a trip down memory lane as we share experiences from this remarkable day in Chicago's history. The Power of Routines and Visual Supports in Early Childhood 09/25/25 - 09/25/25 Consistent routines create a sense of safety and predictability for young children, helping them thrive both emotionally and behaviorally. This training explores the importance of well-structured routines and how visual supports can enhance understanding, independence, and positive behavior. Participants will gain practical strategies for implementing visual tools that support daily transitions, reduce challenging behaviors, and promote a calm, responsive learning environment The World of Investments: Building Wealth 08/23/25 - 08/23/25 10/30/25 - 10/30/25 In this course, discover the vast world of investing and learn about its inner workings in an engaging and interactive session. Explore common types of investments and accounts to find your best investment options. You will gain an understanding of tax complications and get your specific investment questions answered during the session. Understanding the Basics of Life insurance 11/15/25 - 11/15/25 12/02/25 - 12/02/25 This course will guide you through the world of life insurance and help you plan for your retirement. You will learn how to identify reliable insurance companies that will be there for you when you need them. We will also discuss the different types of life insurance and help you determine which one is best suited for your specific needs. By the end of this course, you will be equipped with the knowledge to become a confident and informed consumer. Understanding Your Auto and Home Insurance 09/09/25 - 09/09/25 10/18/25 - 10/18/25 12/04/25 - 12/04/25 Shopping for insurance can be daunting. In this course, learn how it is essential to shop for insurance annually so you can guarantee you are receiving adequate coverage from a reputable company at a reasonable price. The insurance industry is unpredictable. Discover how being an informed shopper will help you to understand your policy and put you in the driver's seat when obtaining quotes for auto, home, or renter's insurance. Your Home, Your Life: Organizing Through the Years 09/11/25 - 09/11/25 10/20/25 - 10/20/25 Tired of the clutter and chaos? Whether you're just starting out, raising a family, downsizing, or somewhere in between, this empowering class helps you cut through the overwhelm and rethink what an organized home really looks like. Learn ADHD-friendly strategies, realistic routines, and sustainable habits that support mental clarity and personal growth-without chasing perfection. We'll tackle the "crisis of stuff," challenge toxic organizing myths, and leave you with the tools and motivation to create a home that works for you. No matter your life stage, it's never too late to lighten your load and build a space that feels like peace.

Featured Courses

Retirement: Making Your Money Last 09/09/25 - 09/09/25 In this session we'll discuss ways to help you work toward achieving your retirement goals - what matters most to you. A key focus will be how to provide for your income needs, including your retirement income or the future. We'll also explore how to address important concerns such as inflation, health care expenses, market volatility and unexpected events.

Understanding Identity Theft 06/17/25 - 06/17/25 Identity theft is a growing concern for all Americans. Join this course to learn how to: understand what identity theft is, minimize the risk of becoming a victim, recognize the signs that identity theft has occurred, respond effectively to a compromised identity, and discover how your financial institution can assist you.

Drones in Agriculture 07/08/25 - 07/08/25 This class is designed to introduce participants to the practical applications of drone technology in modern farming. The class will cover the basics of drone operation, data collection, and how drones can be used for crop monitoring, irrigation management, and precision farming. The session will also include a live demonstration, showcasing real-world drone operations and their integration into agricultural workflows to enhance efficiency and productivity.

Pivotal Events Leading Up to the Civil War 09/05/25 - 09/05/25 When did the American Civil War begin? The war began in 1861 and lasted until 1865; yet the decades leading up to the 1860s are pivotal in understanding why the war began. This class examines the culmination of events from the 1830s to the 1860s, which sparked secession and four long years of war.

Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg and the Famous Address 09/19/25 - 09/19/25 Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address is his most famous speech. But little is discussed about his trip to Gettysburg and the events that unfolded while he was in the town. This class examines the hours Lincoln spent in Gettysburg and details the activities around Lincoln and his speech.

The Civil War in the Western Frontier 10/03/25 - 10/03/25 While fought between North and South, the Civil War was about the West-specifically the expansion of slavery. This course explores the Western Frontier as a crucial but overlooked theater of war involving Union, Confederate, and Native forces, and examines how warfare there differed from traditional battles.

CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 10/04/25 - 10/04/25 Do you enjoy mysteries and crime investigations? Learn "behind the scene" facts of several crimes such as homicides, robberies, stage crime scenes and more. You will get to review 3 cases and determine what is seen in the evidence.

Civil War Congresses 10/17/25 - 10/17/25 After Southern secession in 1860, the 37th and 38th U.S. Congresses operated without opposition from pro-slavery legislators, passing landmark legislation that shaped the nation's future. At the same time, the Confederate Congresses struggled to govern a nation at war. This course examines how both governments used legislation to support their war efforts-and the limits of their success.

Mustering Troops Out of Service after the Civil War 10/31/25 - 10/31/25 Lee's surrender marked the beginning of a massive demobilization. This course explores how Union and Confederate armies, prisoners, and the wounded were rapidly returned home after years of war.

Mystery Shopping - Get Paid to Shop 11/08/25 - 11/08/25 Do you like to shop? You can get paid to shop at almost every local store in your area, plus there are many online shopping assignments you can do from home. Let Gina Henry show you how to avoid scam companies, find the top 100 mystery shopping companies, and earn income along with free hotel stays, free gas, free groceries, and more.

History of the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade 11/14/25 - 11/14/25 Today the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is part of our American culture and Thanksgiving traditions. While not the longest running Thanksgiving parade, it is certainly the most popular. This class explores the reasons for the initial parade; the origins as a Christmas pageant beginning in 1924; the creative minds behind the floats and balloons; and the evolution of the parade through the decades embracing cultural icons along the way.

Christmas in American Culture 12/05/25 - 12/05/25 Christmas holds a unique and powerful place in American culture, more significant than any other seasonal celebration. This course explores the history of the holiday, from the origins of December 25th to the rise of Santa, carols, cards, and commercialization, tracing how these traditions came to define the American Christmas.

Save Money with Extreme Couponing! 10/14/25 - 10/14/25 Say goodbye to full-price shopping with coupons! Coupons aren't just for the frugal - they're for savvy shoppers who want to save money on everything they buy. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the couponing game, learn how to save money everyday with extreme couponing.

50 Money Making Side Hustles for Teens 10/05/25 - 10/05/25 Hey, Teen! Want to know the quickest way to make money as a teenager? It's through a side hustle! You don't need to wait until you're older-many side hustles fit easily into your teen life between classes and activities. They often don't require extra studying and can help you reach financial goals, like saving for a car.In this class, you'll learn how to fill out necessary legal forms and discover 50 profitable side hustle ideas. You'll also receive informative handouts for future reference.

A Conversation on Grandparenting 10/09/25 - 10/09/25 Are you a "newer" grandparent or even an old pro? Join us for a welcoming and engaging discussion on the stages and styles of modern grandparenting. Drawing from a variety of books, studies, and shared experiences, we'll explore how the role of grandparents continues to evolve. This is a great opportunity to connect with others, reflect on your own journey, and exchange tips, strategies, and insights for navigating this special phase of life. Whether you're helping to raise your grandchildren or simply staying connected from afar, you'll find support, inspiration, and practical ideas in this thoughtful session.

Are You in Command of Your Health...Or Is Your Health in Command of You? 10/21/25 - 10/21/25 Over the years, ongoing research and studies have contributed greatly to our understanding of how our bodies function and what supports cellular structure. Topics such as autophagy, apoptosis, and supporting the mitochondria will be explained and discussed. Get a better understanding of what impacts your optimal wellness.

Beginner's Guide to Using ChatGPT (AI) for Writers 10/07/25 - 10/07/25 ChatGPT (AI) is here to stay and is the future for writers and content creators. Don't be left behind! No prior AI experience required. Do you want to learn how to incorporate the power of cutting-edge technology to gain ideas and inspiration, write web content, articles, and even novels or scripts? Join LeeAnne Krusemark and start building your expertise in the world of ChatGPT now!

Creating Long-Term Income from Dividend Stock 10/14/25 - 10/14/25 During this session, we will learn how investing in companies that pay a dividend per share can create a income check that can potentially increase every year.

Creative Writing 101: A Beginner's Guide 10/10/25 - 10/10/25 You don't need a degree in creative writing to be an exceptional writer and get paid for it! Anyone with a passion for writing can learn and enhance their skills in fiction and non-fiction. You don't need a degree in creative writing to become a successful writer! Anyone with a passion for writing can learn and enhance their skills in fiction and non-fiction. This class covers various forms of creative writing, including the top 10 tips for beginners, brainstorming techniques, and ways to bring your words to life with engaging descriptions. You'll also learn how to develop your unique writing style and monetize your work.

Distracted Driving 10/13/25 - 10/13/25 Riverside's Distracted Driving class offers practical education on how to stay safer behind the wheel. Learn to recognize common distractions and how to avoid them, whether you're driving across town or across the country. The course also covers how to properly position yourself in your vehicle to reduce the risk of injury in the event of a crash. Using photos and real-life examples, we'll explore how kinetic energy impacts the body and why small adjustments can make a big difference. A must-attend for anyone who wants to be a safer, more aware driver.

French-Canadian Heritage Wall Tour - Kankakee Community College 09/12/25 - 09/12/25 Join us for a guided tour of the French-Canadian Heritage Wall at KCC, a powerful visual tribute to the lives and legacies of French-Canadian families in our region. Learn about the rich cultural history represented in the display and discover how the wall connects to the broader French-Canadian Interview Project website. Don't miss this unique opportunity to explore and celebrate the vibrant French-Canadian roots of our community.

Geology of Indiana State Parks 11/05/25 - 11/05/25 Indiana state parks are excellent places to learn about the fascinating geologic history of Indiana. These natural wonders set aside for your enjoyment display a wide variety of landscapes. In the north are well-preserved features produced by glaciers that rumbled through the region. To the south of glaciation is a rugged area with very different and interesting features. The colorful book included with the talk features all 24 parks and many natural areas.

Have Fun Using Topographic Maps on Your Computer or Cellphone 11/11/25 - 11/11/25 Topographic maps offer a fun and fascinating way to explore the lay of the land-right from your chair! In this hands-on session, you'll discover a wide range of FREE online maps and learn just how easy it is to view and use them. We'll demonstrate step-by-step how to navigate these maps, and you'll have the chance to try it yourself using one of our computers or your cellphone. With access to a printer, you can even print detailed sections of any map you like. You'll be amazed at how much you can learn about where you live-or where you'd love to go-without ever leaving home. Printed instructions will be provided so you can continue exploring on your own. Don't miss this fun and eye-opening adventure into the world of topographic maps!

How Are My Investments Taxed? 09/30/25 - 09/30/25 During this session, we will learn how different kinds of accounts and investments are taxed. We will also explore how to invest tax efficiently.

Keep More of What You Earn with a Budget 09/20/25 - 09/20/25 11/13/25 - 11/13/25 Many people view budgeting as a strict diet, but it's not about depriving yourself of things you enjoy. It's about understanding the importance of managing your cash flow within a flexible and personalized budget. Creating a realistic budget doesn't have to be a painful experience! This class will teach you how to document your expenses, track your finances with or without personal budgeting software, and work together as a family to achieve common financial goals. You might even discover that you can start or increase your retirement savings! Take control of your money and prevent your money from controlling you!

Medicare 101 09/10/25 - 09/10/25 10/08/25 - 10/08/25 Are you or a loved one nearing Medicare eligibility? Join us for an informative and easy-to-understand presentation that will guide you through the essentials of Medicare, including how it works, the different parts (A, B, C, D), enrollment periods and how to avoid penalties, costs and coverage options, as well as tips for choosing the right plan for your needs.

Narcan/Naloxone - Understanding the Opioid Issue and How To Fight It 09/16/25 - 09/16/25 Substance Abuse Disorders are unfortunately very common and can be very easy to develop. This is especially true when it comes to opioids. This course helps to understand opioids better, as well as teach how to use Narcan/Naloxone, a nasal spray that helps reverse opioid overdoses. Learning about this issue can help your friends, family, and community at large.

Navigating Difficult Conversations with Parents in Early Childhood 11/20/25 - 11/20/25 Building strong partnerships with families is essential in early childhood, but it's not always easy-especially when sensitive topics arise. This training equips educators with practical tools and strategies for approaching difficult conversations with empathy, clarity, and professionalism. Participants will learn how to prepare for challenging discussions, communicate concerns effectively, and foster collaborative relationships with families, all through a trauma-informed, mental health-focused lens.

Put the Pencil Down and Play: The Importance of Play Over Worksheets in Early Childhood 10/23/25 - 10/23/25 In early childhood education, play is not just a break from learning-it is the learning. This training challenges the overuse of worksheets in early childhood classrooms and highlights the critical role of hands-on, play-based experiences in promoting development. Participants will explore how play supports cognitive, social-emotional, and physical growth, and learn how to align playful activities with early learning standards and developmental goals. The session includes practical strategies for replacing pencil-and-paper tasks with meaningful, engaging play that honors how young children learn best.

Retirement 101 09/06/25 - 09/06/25 11/06/25 - 11/06/25 Do you often think "I'll never be able to retire"? Do you believe that you are too "broke" to start putting money away for retirement? Is your plan at work sufficient and are you putting the money away in the "right" places? Have you ever thought that you can't "afford to lose any money in the stock market"? In this class, you will learn the fundamentals of starting and planning for your retirement. Learn the difference between a Roth and a Pre-Tax investment and how they are affected by taxes. Learn the tax brackets and how to minimize your tax bite. However, money is only one aspect of retirement planning. This course blends financial education and life planning to help build your wealth, align your money with your values, and achieve your retirement lifestyle goals.

Stop the Bleed 09/04/25 - 09/04/25 This course trains participants to control life-threatening bleeding using direct pressure, wound packing, and tourniquets. Attendees will also learn how blood thinner medications can impact bleeding control. The course empowers bystanders to respond quickly and effectively in emergencies until professional help arrives.

Stroke Smart: Prevention, Recovery and Life Beyond 09/23/25 - 09/23/25 10/28/25 - 10/28/25 This course is designed to educate participants on all aspects of stroke. Topics covered will include understanding risk factors and warning signs to exploring treatment options, rehabilitation strategies, and lifestyle changes. Whether you are a stroke survivor, caregiver, or someone looking to reduce your risk, this course will provide up-to-date information to support a healthier lifestyle.

The Chicago Blizzard of 1967 10/29/25 - 10/29/25 Do you remember where you were when Chicago was buried under 23 inches of snow? Relive one of the city's most memorable storms as we walk through the timeline of events, stunning photos of towering snow drifts, and stories of how the city came to a standstill. We'll discuss the storm's impact on daily life, the heroic cleanup efforts, and the lasting memories it created. Bring your own stories and enjoy a trip down memory lane as we share experiences from this remarkable day in Chicago's history.

The Power of Routines and Visual Supports in Early Childhood 09/25/25 - 09/25/25 Consistent routines create a sense of safety and predictability for young children, helping them thrive both emotionally and behaviorally. This training explores the importance of well-structured routines and how visual supports can enhance understanding, independence, and positive behavior. Participants will gain practical strategies for implementing visual tools that support daily transitions, reduce challenging behaviors, and promote a calm, responsive learning environment

The World of Investments: Building Wealth 08/23/25 - 08/23/25 10/30/25 - 10/30/25 In this course, discover the vast world of investing and learn about its inner workings in an engaging and interactive session. Explore common types of investments and accounts to find your best investment options. You will gain an understanding of tax complications and get your specific investment questions answered during the session.

Understanding the Basics of Life insurance 11/15/25 - 11/15/25 12/02/25 - 12/02/25 This course will guide you through the world of life insurance and help you plan for your retirement. You will learn how to identify reliable insurance companies that will be there for you when you need them. We will also discuss the different types of life insurance and help you determine which one is best suited for your specific needs. By the end of this course, you will be equipped with the knowledge to become a confident and informed consumer.

Understanding Your Auto and Home Insurance 09/09/25 - 09/09/25 10/18/25 - 10/18/25 12/04/25 - 12/04/25 Shopping for insurance can be daunting. In this course, learn how it is essential to shop for insurance annually so you can guarantee you are receiving adequate coverage from a reputable company at a reasonable price. The insurance industry is unpredictable. Discover how being an informed shopper will help you to understand your policy and put you in the driver's seat when obtaining quotes for auto, home, or renter's insurance.

Your Home, Your Life: Organizing Through the Years 09/11/25 - 09/11/25 10/20/25 - 10/20/25 Tired of the clutter and chaos? Whether you're just starting out, raising a family, downsizing, or somewhere in between, this empowering class helps you cut through the overwhelm and rethink what an organized home really looks like. Learn ADHD-friendly strategies, realistic routines, and sustainable habits that support mental clarity and personal growth-without chasing perfection. We'll tackle the "crisis of stuff," challenge toxic organizing myths, and leave you with the tools and motivation to create a home that works for you. No matter your life stage, it's never too late to lighten your load and build a space that feels like peace.