Featured Courses 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. Winter Planter Box Workshop Click the register link to see available sessions Get into the winter spirit by creating a festive outdoor planter box perfect for your porch, entryway, or patio! In this hands-on workshop, you'll design a beautiful seasonal arrangement using a variety of winter greens, natural accents like pinecones and berries, and your own creativity. All materials are included-planter box, fresh winter greenery, tools, gloves, and decorative elements-so you can simply come ready to design and enjoy. You'll be guided step-by-step on how to assemble and style your planter, along with tips for keeping it fresh all season long. No experience needed-just a love for the season and a flair for festive fun! Different Viewpoints - A Monthly Current Events Discussion Group 09/09/25 - 12/09/25 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! How Are My Investments Taxed? 02/17/26 - 02/17/26 During this session, we will learn how different kinds of accounts and investments are taxed. We will also explore how to invest tax efficiently. History of Kankakee County's Four Hospitals 02/18/26 - 02/25/26 Discover the fascinating history of Kankakee County's four hospitals in this engaging two-part series. Session 1 explores the origins and evolution of Kankakee County Hospital and Riverside Hospital, while Session 2 delves into the history of Manteno State Hospital and St. Mary's Hospital. Join us to uncover the stories, people, and community impact behind these important local institutions. Paleontology & Natural History 02/23/26 - 02/23/26 Travel back in time on a thrilling journey through Earth's 4.6-billion-year story! Explore the ancient world of paleontology and uncover how shifting climates, evolving environments, and powerful extinction events shaped life on our planet. Discover why the mighty dinosaurs and their giant neighbors couldn't survive the KPG extinction 66 million years ago, and get an up-close look at fossil replicas of awe-inspiring creatures like mammoths and saber-toothed cats. This hands-on demo brings prehistory to life with real fossils, ethically collected specimens, and modern-day comparisons-revealing how the secrets of the past can help protect the future of Earth's wildlife and habitats. The World of Investments: Building Wealth 02/23/26 - 02/23/26 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. A Trip To London 02/24/26 - 02/24/26 Have you ever wanted to pay a visit to the city of London? Do you wish to visit the home of royalty, the land of Sherlock Holmes and Harry Potter? This course will address tips for planning a trip to the capitol of the United Kingdom as well as provide photos and stories from multiple trips to this exciting city. Strength Training for Healthy Aging: Building a Stronger Foundation Click the register link to see available sessions Stay strong, confident, and independent with this strength training class designed especially for healthy aging. Learn safe and effective resistance exercises that help build muscle, protect your bones, and support everyday activities like climbing stairs or lifting groceries. This class will guide you through proper form, balance improvement, and simple ways to prevent falls. It's never too late to invest in your health and discover your strongest self! AI Basics: A Beginner's Guide to Understanding and Using Artificial Intelligence 02/27/26 - 02/27/26 04/17/26 - 04/17/26 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. Retirement 101 03/04/26 - 03/04/26 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. Senior Safe Class 03/04/26 - 03/04/26 03/11/26 - 03/11/26 Build confidence, peace of mind, awareness, and safety awareness skills in this empowering class designed specifically for seniors. Learn simple, effective self-defense and relaxation techniques and mental strategies to stay calm and in control-whether at home or in public. This class is taught by Senior Master Instructor Steven Lemner, 8th degree black belt. He brings 50 plus years of experience to share. He is a nationally and internationally recognized certified instructor in martial arts, stress reduction, meditation, rape prevention, and leadership skills. Creating Long-Term Income from Dividend Stock 03/17/26 - 03/17/26 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. 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. Basic Residential Electricity for Homeowners 03/19/26 - 03/19/26 This introductory course is designed for homeowners who want to gain a foundational understanding of residential electrical systems. Participants will learn the basics of electrical safety, how to identify and use common hand tools, and how to install and troubleshoot switches, outlets, and simple circuits. Through hands-on practice and guided instruction, students will build confidence in performing minor electrical tasks around the home. No prior experience is necessary-just a willingness to learn and a focus on safety. Paint Your Pet with a Floral Twist 03/19/26 - 03/26/26 Celebrate your pet in a fun and creative way! In this watercolor workshop, you'll learn techniques to paint a portrait of your pet with beautiful floral accents. Bring a favorite photo of your pet and a photo of your favorite flowers to use as inspiration. Perfect for all skill levels, this class combines artistic expression with a personal touch-creating a keepsake you'll treasure. Understanding Your Auto and Home Insurance 12/04/25 - 12/04/25 03/19/26 - 03/19/26 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. 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. Chemistry in Everyday Life 04/01/26 - 04/01/26 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! 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. Geology of Illinois State Parks 04/15/26 - 04/15/26 We will explore geological significant state parks in Illinois. The origin and geological history of the rocks and materials making up the parks, the processes that shaped the landscape and the fascinating appearance of example parks will all be illustrated. Participants in this session will receive a copy of Max Reams' book, Geology of Illinois State Parks. 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. 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. Your Home, Your Life: Organizing Through the Years 02/21/26 - 02/21/26 02/21/26 - 02/21/26 03/07/26 - 03/07/26 03/07/26 - 03/07/26 No matter your life stage, it's never too late to lighten your load and build a place that feels like peace. Whether you're just starting out, raising a family, downsizing, or somewhere in between., this empowering class helps you to cut through the overwhelm and rethink what a 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'' 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. 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

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.

Winter Planter Box Workshop Click the register link to see available sessions Get into the winter spirit by creating a festive outdoor planter box perfect for your porch, entryway, or patio! In this hands-on workshop, you'll design a beautiful seasonal arrangement using a variety of winter greens, natural accents like pinecones and berries, and your own creativity. All materials are included-planter box, fresh winter greenery, tools, gloves, and decorative elements-so you can simply come ready to design and enjoy. You'll be guided step-by-step on how to assemble and style your planter, along with tips for keeping it fresh all season long. No experience needed-just a love for the season and a flair for festive fun!

Different Viewpoints - A Monthly Current Events Discussion Group 09/09/25 - 12/09/25 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!

How Are My Investments Taxed? 02/17/26 - 02/17/26 During this session, we will learn how different kinds of accounts and investments are taxed. We will also explore how to invest tax efficiently.

History of Kankakee County's Four Hospitals 02/18/26 - 02/25/26 Discover the fascinating history of Kankakee County's four hospitals in this engaging two-part series. Session 1 explores the origins and evolution of Kankakee County Hospital and Riverside Hospital, while Session 2 delves into the history of Manteno State Hospital and St. Mary's Hospital. Join us to uncover the stories, people, and community impact behind these important local institutions.

Paleontology & Natural History 02/23/26 - 02/23/26 Travel back in time on a thrilling journey through Earth's 4.6-billion-year story! Explore the ancient world of paleontology and uncover how shifting climates, evolving environments, and powerful extinction events shaped life on our planet. Discover why the mighty dinosaurs and their giant neighbors couldn't survive the KPG extinction 66 million years ago, and get an up-close look at fossil replicas of awe-inspiring creatures like mammoths and saber-toothed cats. This hands-on demo brings prehistory to life with real fossils, ethically collected specimens, and modern-day comparisons-revealing how the secrets of the past can help protect the future of Earth's wildlife and habitats.

The World of Investments: Building Wealth 02/23/26 - 02/23/26 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.

A Trip To London 02/24/26 - 02/24/26 Have you ever wanted to pay a visit to the city of London? Do you wish to visit the home of royalty, the land of Sherlock Holmes and Harry Potter? This course will address tips for planning a trip to the capitol of the United Kingdom as well as provide photos and stories from multiple trips to this exciting city.

Strength Training for Healthy Aging: Building a Stronger Foundation Click the register link to see available sessions Stay strong, confident, and independent with this strength training class designed especially for healthy aging. Learn safe and effective resistance exercises that help build muscle, protect your bones, and support everyday activities like climbing stairs or lifting groceries. This class will guide you through proper form, balance improvement, and simple ways to prevent falls. It's never too late to invest in your health and discover your strongest self!

AI Basics: A Beginner's Guide to Understanding and Using Artificial Intelligence 02/27/26 - 02/27/26 04/17/26 - 04/17/26 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.

Retirement 101 03/04/26 - 03/04/26 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.

Senior Safe Class 03/04/26 - 03/04/26 03/11/26 - 03/11/26 Build confidence, peace of mind, awareness, and safety awareness skills in this empowering class designed specifically for seniors. Learn simple, effective self-defense and relaxation techniques and mental strategies to stay calm and in control-whether at home or in public. This class is taught by Senior Master Instructor Steven Lemner, 8th degree black belt. He brings 50 plus years of experience to share. He is a nationally and internationally recognized certified instructor in martial arts, stress reduction, meditation, rape prevention, and leadership skills.

Creating Long-Term Income from Dividend Stock 03/17/26 - 03/17/26 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.

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.

Basic Residential Electricity for Homeowners 03/19/26 - 03/19/26 This introductory course is designed for homeowners who want to gain a foundational understanding of residential electrical systems. Participants will learn the basics of electrical safety, how to identify and use common hand tools, and how to install and troubleshoot switches, outlets, and simple circuits. Through hands-on practice and guided instruction, students will build confidence in performing minor electrical tasks around the home. No prior experience is necessary-just a willingness to learn and a focus on safety.

Paint Your Pet with a Floral Twist 03/19/26 - 03/26/26 Celebrate your pet in a fun and creative way! In this watercolor workshop, you'll learn techniques to paint a portrait of your pet with beautiful floral accents. Bring a favorite photo of your pet and a photo of your favorite flowers to use as inspiration. Perfect for all skill levels, this class combines artistic expression with a personal touch-creating a keepsake you'll treasure.

Understanding Your Auto and Home Insurance 12/04/25 - 12/04/25 03/19/26 - 03/19/26 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.

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.

Chemistry in Everyday Life 04/01/26 - 04/01/26 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!

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.

Geology of Illinois State Parks 04/15/26 - 04/15/26 We will explore geological significant state parks in Illinois. The origin and geological history of the rocks and materials making up the parks, the processes that shaped the landscape and the fascinating appearance of example parks will all be illustrated. Participants in this session will receive a copy of Max Reams' book, Geology of Illinois State Parks.

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.

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.

Your Home, Your Life: Organizing Through the Years 02/21/26 - 02/21/26 02/21/26 - 02/21/26 03/07/26 - 03/07/26 03/07/26 - 03/07/26 No matter your life stage, it's never too late to lighten your load and build a place that feels like peace. Whether you're just starting out, raising a family, downsizing, or somewhere in between., this empowering class helps you to cut through the overwhelm and rethink what a 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'' 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.

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.