South Washington County Schools Community Education

SoWashCo Community Education offers a variety of activities, trips, resources and educational programming for adults age 50+ in a welcoming environment where social engagement thrives. (Note: We've got an exciting Member celebration and Resource event scheduled for Monday, Sept. 30 from 10 - 11:30 a.m. Please let us know if you will be attending.) Are you recently retired and missing your network of co-workers? New to the area? Love to play games? Take local trips? Meet new friends? Stay fit? Learn new skills or develop a hobby? Our Adults 50+ programming is designed to meet the social, educational, health and human service needs of people 50 and over. Join us for an exciting lineup of weekly activities. Whether you're interested in Bingo, Bunco, 500, Farkle, Lighten Up, Mah Jongg, Book Club, Mexican Train Dominoes, Hand & Foot, monthly potluck or one of our support groups such as Weight Loss, Diabetes Care, Grief Care, and Caregiver Group. These activities are all part of your yearly membership as well as some other special events that are free or reduced price for members throughout the year such as lunch and learns, workshops, birthday bashes and more. Members also receive a discount on footcare appointments. Membership is only $20/year! That means it's under 50 cents a week to participate! And if the $20 is still a hardship, let us know. No one will be turned away due to finances. So whether you are ready to play a game of cards, discuss a book, socialize at a potluck, exercise, or attend local trips and tours, there is something for you at SoWashCo Community Education. Please call 651-425-6650 with any questions.

Do you have an art project you'd like to work on here? Whether it's watercolor painting, sketching, tissue paper art, embroidery or anything creative you can think of, please bring it! You'll enjoy the camaraderie of fellow creative types while you each keep moving your project toward completion. We will also have acrylic paints, paper, etc. available to use at no cost.

Do you love word games and board games in general? Join us! Whether you want to play Scrabble, Boggle, Apples to Apples or other fun board games; we've got a few or bring your own! (Note: If there is a game you are interested that we don't have, let us know.)

Are you dealing with diabetes or pre-diabetes? Could you use a little support and practical tips for day to day diabetes management so you can feel your best? Join us for a friendly and informal group discussion designed to share facts and ideas. This group is facilitated by Diabetes advocate Connie Allen. She is a nurse and Certified Diabetes Educator and has been a Cottage Grove resident since 1996. Class meets the third Tuesday of the month. This program is intended for anyone with diabetes. Spouses and support persons are also encouraged to attend! Please register online at sowashco.ce.eleyo.com. If you have questions, please call Connie Allen at 651-232-7057.

Are you suffering from arthritis pain? Or are you seeking ways to be proactive to prevent arthritis in the future? This workshop will review joint anatomy and function as well outline different types of arthritis. Dr. Kriva will provide a thorough discussion of available non-drug supplements as well as natural biomechanical approaches to maintain joint health. Leave with exercises you can perform at home to minimize the impact of arthritis in your life. Join us for a helpful educational opportunity and enjoy lunch on us.

Join us for a new class focused on gentle movement, balance, and mindfulness—perfect for beginners or anyone looking to improve mobility and reduce stress. Our instructor, Marta, creates a welcoming, supportive environment where all fitness levels are encouraged.

Like many people, you may have delayed making decisions about your end-of-life care. It’s completely natural—these conversations can be emotionally challenging, and the paperwork can feel overwhelming. We invite you to join us for Advance Care Planning 101, a thoughtful and practical presentation designed to guide you through the process with clarity and support. You'll also explore an Advance Planning Guide Toolkit that will help you: Reflect on your values, goals, and priorities for end-of-life care Choose a trusted representative to speak on your behalf if you're unable to Learn about common end-of-life medical interventions—so you can make informed decisions about what you do or do not want Whether you're just beginning to think about your wishes or ready to take the next step in documenting them, this session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to make confident, informed choices—for yourself and your loved ones. Speaker Bio Mary Carlsen Mary is a retired St. Olaf College professor where she taught courses in social policy, social work practice, ethics, family studies and social welfare history. She received her B.A. in social work from St. Olaf College, and her MSW from the University of Washington, concentrating in health care and aging. She practiced social work in hospital, hospice, nursing home, and home care settings. She is a member of the Northfield Hospital Bioethics Committee and served on the NASW-MN Ethics Committee. In 2016 she founded a local group focused on advance care planning and MAID education and advocacy.

Join a fun, one-session adult coloring workshop! Learn foundational skills, complete colorful pages, and experience the calming, creative escape coloring offers. Materials provided!