Featured Courses Different Viewpoints - A Monthly Current Events Discussion Group 01/13/26 - 05/12/26 At KCC's North Campus in Bradley, we will come together in a relaxed setting to gain a better understanding of both sides of the topic at hand. We will hear a programmed talk and then share our thoughts and opinions and work towards strengthening our community. This program is designed for individuals over 50, but we welcome all college-aged and older individuals to join in on the conversation. See you there! Six Paths Qigong with Steven Lemner 03/18/26 - 03/18/26 03/25/26 - 03/25/26 Qigong (pronounced chee-gong) is an ancient Chinese practice combining gentle movement, deep breathing, and mindfulness to enhance health, energy, and well-being. The slow, flowing exercises are suitable for all ages and abilities, promoting relaxation, balance, and vitality. Participants will learn simple standing, moving, and seated exercises for everyday practice. Keep More of What You Earn with a Budget 03/30/26 - 03/30/26 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! Native Wildlife Species of IL & the Midwest 03/30/26 - 03/30/26 Kankakee County may be covered in endless "seas" of soybeans & corn, but it wasn't always this way! Learn about the wonderful biodiversity of wildlife that exists right within our backyards and communities! Learn about the lush habitats that once existed in our region-including the "Forgotten Five" megafaunal mammals that we have lost here in the Midwest over the last century, and how some of those species have been reintroduced in secured habitats or can be seen at nearby sanctuary settings. Discover some of the magnificent extinct animals of the past that once roamed the Midwest, when glaciers over a mile high consumed the landscape thousands of years ago! This demo features ethically collected specimens & replicas (including fossil replicas). Creating Your Retirement Income Stream 03/31/26 - 03/31/26 You've spent years investing so you can retire on your terms, but as retirement nears, the purpose of your portfolio will begin to change. It no longer has to get you to retirement; it has to get you through retirement. And as your regular paychecks stop, you'll need a strategy to help provide for your income needs throughout retirement. The Empowered Caregiver Series 04/02/26 - 04/02/26 Nearly 12 million caregivers provide billions of hours of unpaid support to people living with Alzheimer's each year. This course will help you gain practical tools to support loved ones living with Alzheimer's. Learn how to build caregiving skills, encourage independence, communicate effectively, manage dementia-related behaviors, and access care resources. Become a Dementia Friend 04/08/26 - 04/08/26 A global movement from the Alzheimer's Society in the UK has now reached the U.S. "The Silver Tsunami" is projected to be upon us by 2030. There will be more people aged 65 and older than those under 18, increasing the likelihood that dementia will touch many lives. This program teaches the five key messages about dementia, how it affects individuals, and practical ways you can support people living with the disease. Learn how to engage and assist neighbors, family members, and community members, and discover how you can make a meaningful difference by becoming a Dementia Friend. Fossils in Illinois 04/08/26 - 04/08/26 The rocks below our feet are filled with thousands of species of fossils of ancient life that are now extinct. We will explore the fascinating creatures that lived on the land and swam in the seas that once covered our state. Photography and the Civil War 04/10/26 - 04/10/26 Photography was coming of age during the American Civil War. Mathew Brady and other photojournalists brought the carnage, suffering and sacrifice of war to the home front. Soldiers posed in their uniforms to send final mementoes home to their loved ones. Lastly, photography documented the war from beginning to end with huge impacts to the nation's morale. This class examines how photography was used during the war not only for news propaganda and documenting the ravages of war, but also in remembering and memorializing the dead. Share a Book, Share an Author 04/15/26 - 04/15/26 Welcome all readers! Please join fellow bookworms to share some of your favorite books and authors. Come to enjoy the discussion and go home with a new "must read" list. A Conversation on Grandparenting 04/16/26 - 04/16/26 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. Financial Literacy: Mastering Your Money 04/16/26 - 04/16/26 05/08/26 - 05/08/26 Take control of your financial future in this comprehensive course on personal finance. Learn how to create and maintain a realistic budget, understand and manage credit and debt, build essential savings habits, and plan for both short- and long-term financial goals. Gain practical strategies and tools to make informed decisions, reduce financial stress, and achieve greater financial confidence. AI Basics: A Beginner's Guide to Understanding and Using Artificial Intelligence 04/17/26 - 04/17/26 04/21/26 - 04/21/26 Explore AI (Artificial Intelligence) fundamentals in this 90-minute beginner-friendly course. Learn what AI is, its history, myths, and ethics, then dive into a hands-on ChatGPT session. No prior experience needed - just curiosity! Understand AI's role in daily life and how to engage with it safely and effectively. Tiny Nutrients, Big Impact 04/17/26 - 05/01/26 Join Mary Kay Tanka for a 3-part series on the impact of vitamins and minerals on our bodies. Our bodies rely on vitamins and minerals to function at their best. From supporting brain and bone health to boosting the immune system and promoting cardiovascular wellness, proper nutrient intake is essential for overall well-being. This course provides an overview of how the body uses vitamins and minerals, highlights the best foods to include in your diet, and offers guidance on selecting supplements safely when shopping at your local store. Charitable Giving Strategy 04/21/26 - 04/21/26 Whether you're considering a one-time donation or making ongoing gifts, integrating charitable giving into your overall financial strategy may yield greater benefits for the charity (in the form of more money) and to you - as a tax deduction. Gaining a basic understanding of how charitable giving may affect your taxes can help you get the most from your giving strategy. What Is a Paradigm? 04/22/26 - 04/22/26 Discover how big ideas in science have changed the way we see the world. Using examples from astronomy, chemistry, and biology-such as the development of atomic theory or our understanding of respiration-this class explores how scientific thinking evolves over time. You'll learn what a "paradigm" is, how new discoveries can lead to a "paradigm shift," and consider how this concept might apply beyond science to other areas of knowledge and understanding. The Role Animals Played in the Civil War 04/24/26 - 04/24/26 Animals played very important roles during the American Civil War. Some animals were pets, such as dogs, provided soldiers with a feeling of calm and a connection to home; while other pets, such as hens, provided soldiers with fresh eggs. Animals, such as mules and horses, also played an instrumental role in military operations. Without these animals, cavalry soldiers and artillery regiments would not have been successful in their duties. This class examines the role that animals played during battlefield campaigns, in camps, and on the long march to battle. Explore the regimental mascots, the horses of famous Generals, and learn more about these courageous animals and the soldiers who cared for them by attending this class. Understanding the Basics of Life insurance 04/27/26 - 04/27/26 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. 1960's Songs of the Silver Screen - Luncheon 04/28/26 - 04/28/26 Revisit the unforgettable movie music of the 1960s in this engaging film history presentation with John LeGear. Highlighting award-winning songs, legendary performances, and fascinating stories from one of America's most dynamic decades, this program celebrates the films that inspired and uplifted audiences during a time of great change. Filled with nostalgia, lively clips, and plenty of feel-good moments, it's a cinematic journey sure to make you smile. Chemistry in Everyday Life 04/29/26 - 04/29/26 Join Jessica Kawa, chemistry and physical science professor at KCC for this class on chemistry. Discover the fascinating world of chemistry all around you-from the kitchen to the medicine cabinet-in this engaging, hands-on class designed for curious minds with no science background. Through lively demonstrations and interactive activities, we'll explore how chemical principles explain everyday phenomena like cooking, cleaning, and health. No prior knowledge required-just bring your curiosity! Grand Army of the Republic 05/08/26 - 05/08/26 The Grand Army of the Republic will become the dominant Union veteran organization in the post-bellum period. Although the post-Civil War period will have numerous fraternal orders with large memberships, the GAR will seek out only those who call themselves "veterans." This class will look into the membership, rituals, order and discipline, and national encampments. We will analyze the GAR's membership and popularity declines and later massive growth as its mission shifts to promote pensions. Finally, the class will take an in-depth look how the GAR sought to define American patriotism through the school textbook, the flag, and monument dedications.

Featured Courses

Different Viewpoints - A Monthly Current Events Discussion Group 01/13/26 - 05/12/26 At KCC's North Campus in Bradley, we will come together in a relaxed setting to gain a better understanding of both sides of the topic at hand. We will hear a programmed talk and then share our thoughts and opinions and work towards strengthening our community. This program is designed for individuals over 50, but we welcome all college-aged and older individuals to join in on the conversation. See you there!

Six Paths Qigong with Steven Lemner 03/18/26 - 03/18/26 03/25/26 - 03/25/26 Qigong (pronounced chee-gong) is an ancient Chinese practice combining gentle movement, deep breathing, and mindfulness to enhance health, energy, and well-being. The slow, flowing exercises are suitable for all ages and abilities, promoting relaxation, balance, and vitality. Participants will learn simple standing, moving, and seated exercises for everyday practice.

Keep More of What You Earn with a Budget 03/30/26 - 03/30/26 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!

Native Wildlife Species of IL & the Midwest 03/30/26 - 03/30/26 Kankakee County may be covered in endless "seas" of soybeans & corn, but it wasn't always this way! Learn about the wonderful biodiversity of wildlife that exists right within our backyards and communities! Learn about the lush habitats that once existed in our region-including the "Forgotten Five" megafaunal mammals that we have lost here in the Midwest over the last century, and how some of those species have been reintroduced in secured habitats or can be seen at nearby sanctuary settings. Discover some of the magnificent extinct animals of the past that once roamed the Midwest, when glaciers over a mile high consumed the landscape thousands of years ago! This demo features ethically collected specimens & replicas (including fossil replicas).

Creating Your Retirement Income Stream 03/31/26 - 03/31/26 You've spent years investing so you can retire on your terms, but as retirement nears, the purpose of your portfolio will begin to change. It no longer has to get you to retirement; it has to get you through retirement. And as your regular paychecks stop, you'll need a strategy to help provide for your income needs throughout retirement.

The Empowered Caregiver Series 04/02/26 - 04/02/26 Nearly 12 million caregivers provide billions of hours of unpaid support to people living with Alzheimer's each year. This course will help you gain practical tools to support loved ones living with Alzheimer's. Learn how to build caregiving skills, encourage independence, communicate effectively, manage dementia-related behaviors, and access care resources.

Become a Dementia Friend 04/08/26 - 04/08/26 A global movement from the Alzheimer's Society in the UK has now reached the U.S. "The Silver Tsunami" is projected to be upon us by 2030. There will be more people aged 65 and older than those under 18, increasing the likelihood that dementia will touch many lives. This program teaches the five key messages about dementia, how it affects individuals, and practical ways you can support people living with the disease. Learn how to engage and assist neighbors, family members, and community members, and discover how you can make a meaningful difference by becoming a Dementia Friend.

Fossils in Illinois 04/08/26 - 04/08/26 The rocks below our feet are filled with thousands of species of fossils of ancient life that are now extinct. We will explore the fascinating creatures that lived on the land and swam in the seas that once covered our state.

Photography and the Civil War 04/10/26 - 04/10/26 Photography was coming of age during the American Civil War. Mathew Brady and other photojournalists brought the carnage, suffering and sacrifice of war to the home front. Soldiers posed in their uniforms to send final mementoes home to their loved ones. Lastly, photography documented the war from beginning to end with huge impacts to the nation's morale. This class examines how photography was used during the war not only for news propaganda and documenting the ravages of war, but also in remembering and memorializing the dead.

Share a Book, Share an Author 04/15/26 - 04/15/26 Welcome all readers! Please join fellow bookworms to share some of your favorite books and authors. Come to enjoy the discussion and go home with a new "must read" list.

A Conversation on Grandparenting 04/16/26 - 04/16/26 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.

Financial Literacy: Mastering Your Money 04/16/26 - 04/16/26 05/08/26 - 05/08/26 Take control of your financial future in this comprehensive course on personal finance. Learn how to create and maintain a realistic budget, understand and manage credit and debt, build essential savings habits, and plan for both short- and long-term financial goals. Gain practical strategies and tools to make informed decisions, reduce financial stress, and achieve greater financial confidence.

AI Basics: A Beginner's Guide to Understanding and Using Artificial Intelligence 04/17/26 - 04/17/26 04/21/26 - 04/21/26 Explore AI (Artificial Intelligence) fundamentals in this 90-minute beginner-friendly course. Learn what AI is, its history, myths, and ethics, then dive into a hands-on ChatGPT session. No prior experience needed - just curiosity! Understand AI's role in daily life and how to engage with it safely and effectively.

Tiny Nutrients, Big Impact 04/17/26 - 05/01/26 Join Mary Kay Tanka for a 3-part series on the impact of vitamins and minerals on our bodies. Our bodies rely on vitamins and minerals to function at their best. From supporting brain and bone health to boosting the immune system and promoting cardiovascular wellness, proper nutrient intake is essential for overall well-being. This course provides an overview of how the body uses vitamins and minerals, highlights the best foods to include in your diet, and offers guidance on selecting supplements safely when shopping at your local store.

Charitable Giving Strategy 04/21/26 - 04/21/26 Whether you're considering a one-time donation or making ongoing gifts, integrating charitable giving into your overall financial strategy may yield greater benefits for the charity (in the form of more money) and to you - as a tax deduction. Gaining a basic understanding of how charitable giving may affect your taxes can help you get the most from your giving strategy.

What Is a Paradigm? 04/22/26 - 04/22/26 Discover how big ideas in science have changed the way we see the world. Using examples from astronomy, chemistry, and biology-such as the development of atomic theory or our understanding of respiration-this class explores how scientific thinking evolves over time. You'll learn what a "paradigm" is, how new discoveries can lead to a "paradigm shift," and consider how this concept might apply beyond science to other areas of knowledge and understanding.

The Role Animals Played in the Civil War 04/24/26 - 04/24/26 Animals played very important roles during the American Civil War. Some animals were pets, such as dogs, provided soldiers with a feeling of calm and a connection to home; while other pets, such as hens, provided soldiers with fresh eggs. Animals, such as mules and horses, also played an instrumental role in military operations. Without these animals, cavalry soldiers and artillery regiments would not have been successful in their duties. This class examines the role that animals played during battlefield campaigns, in camps, and on the long march to battle. Explore the regimental mascots, the horses of famous Generals, and learn more about these courageous animals and the soldiers who cared for them by attending this class.

Understanding the Basics of Life insurance 04/27/26 - 04/27/26 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.

1960's Songs of the Silver Screen - Luncheon 04/28/26 - 04/28/26 Revisit the unforgettable movie music of the 1960s in this engaging film history presentation with John LeGear. Highlighting award-winning songs, legendary performances, and fascinating stories from one of America's most dynamic decades, this program celebrates the films that inspired and uplifted audiences during a time of great change. Filled with nostalgia, lively clips, and plenty of feel-good moments, it's a cinematic journey sure to make you smile.

Chemistry in Everyday Life 04/29/26 - 04/29/26 Join Jessica Kawa, chemistry and physical science professor at KCC for this class on chemistry. Discover the fascinating world of chemistry all around you-from the kitchen to the medicine cabinet-in this engaging, hands-on class designed for curious minds with no science background. Through lively demonstrations and interactive activities, we'll explore how chemical principles explain everyday phenomena like cooking, cleaning, and health. No prior knowledge required-just bring your curiosity!

Grand Army of the Republic 05/08/26 - 05/08/26 The Grand Army of the Republic will become the dominant Union veteran organization in the post-bellum period. Although the post-Civil War period will have numerous fraternal orders with large memberships, the GAR will seek out only those who call themselves "veterans." This class will look into the membership, rituals, order and discipline, and national encampments. We will analyze the GAR's membership and popularity declines and later massive growth as its mission shifts to promote pensions. Finally, the class will take an in-depth look how the GAR sought to define American patriotism through the school textbook, the flag, and monument dedications.