Council on Aging
Post date: Oct 21, 2015 8:47:48 PM
The Council on Aging will be initiating two new programs in January. The first is a twice weekly exercise class designed to help participants strengthen themselves against falls. The class will include discussions related to balance and topics will include conversations on strengthening core/back/leg muscles to things which make us fall. Then the group will practice whatever topic was covered including structured balance exercises to help improve balance. As the class evolves, minor changes will take place to accommodate participants. Classes will be offered on Mondays at 2:30 and Thursday at 11:00 at the Harper Center with Jane Jezouit, COA Exercise instructor, leading the classes. The first class in the series will be on Thursday January 21. All welcome.
The second group will be a monthly support group for caregivers. Sometimes caring for loved ones can be rather stressful and this group will provide an opportunity for caregivers to gather and release some tension in a safe and welcoming environment. The first support group meeting will occur at 2:30, Wednesday January 20th at the Harper Center.
Both new offerings are funded by a grant awarded to the COA in January by the Massachusetts Association of Councils on Aging. Questions regarding the programs may be addressed to Brian O’Grady at 458.8250
The Williamstown Theatre Festival is launching a community engagement initiative aiming to collaborate with community organizations in the Berkshires. The goal is to establish meaningful and lasting relationships with neighboring organizations. The Williamstown Council on Aging is beginning a partnership with the WTF and inviting Center participants and community members to get involved.
Festival Associate Director Laura Savia and award winning playwright Lucy Thurber will be in the Harper Center at 1:00 on Tuesday January 19th to conduct a workshop focusing on playwriting and acting and aim to create a fun and safe environment for self-expression. These workshops-this January event and another in March (date TBD, others to follow) may also serve to generate ideas or material to be incorporated into a planned July show which will be performed at the WTF by local residents alongside professional actors. All are welcome, participation is free of cost.For information, contact the COA at 458.8250
The COA will also be providing a luncheon-food from the grill-at noon. Menu to be posted Tuesday the 12th.