Low-Impact Aerobics

Line Dancing Click HERE to see our Beginner Class in action!

This is the largest program we offer, with three levels of classes, all offered at our on-site location. Line dancing is the most popular type of dance-exercise for adults over the age of 50. You don't need a partner, so you can practice at home for regular aerobic exercise. An instructor and an assistant lead classes, and new dances can be learned in two weeks. As you become more proficient, you can move up to the next level, which offers more complicated steps. Not only a great way to exercise, line dancing is also a great way to make new friends. For those who can't make it to our morning classes on site, classes are offered at churches throughout the community.

Tai Chi/Yoga

Tai Chi is a great form of exercise that promotes balance and good posture. It is also a great stress reliever, and stimulates the circulatory, lymphatic and immune systems. While it has no "impact" on bones, it helps muscles remain loose and supple. The Tai Chi class flows into the yoga class.

Yoga is a physical discipline that can strengthen and add flexibility as well as promote emotional calm. For those unable to get on the floor, our instructors demonstrate how to work out from a chair. These classes are great for those who can't do the more active dancing programs but want to strengthen and tone.

Living Words - A Creative Writing Experience

Living Words was developed by professors Kara Bopp and Jeremy Jones from Wofford College. The goal is to enjoy fun and diverse writing activities that have cognitive, social and emotional benefits for all that participate.  Click HERE to watch a video about Livingwords featuring our own Rosa Lewis (Shepherd's member and board member).

Spanish

Three levels of Spanish are offered, depending on your level of expertise: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced. All classes are taught by Marcelina Goodlett, a native of Cuba and a retired Spanish teacher.

French

Three levels of French are offered, depending on your ability. The Intermediate I class and Intermediate II class are both taught by Betty Carver, a former high school instructor. In her spare time, Betty takes groups to France so her classes offer more than just text book knowledge. Miclo Wall, a former French teacher and native of France, leads our third class. This class is for those already conversationally fluent in the language and focuses on French literature and lifestyles.

Computer Tutorials

We offer a wide variety of classes, each with a different focus. From basic instruction for beginners to Internet usage, digital camera usage and classes on particular software such as Excel or Word. Most classes run for 4 to 6 weeks.

In September, please join our Fantasy Sports Class. This class is sure to please sports fans who want to become team owners in our very own Shepherd's Center Fantasy Sports League. We'll learn how to sign up and participate in ESPN's fantasy sports online! Come out and form your team and let the games begin!

Visual Arts and Crafts

We offer two types of visual art classes. The Wednesday class usually features acrylics but can be on canvas or craft projects such as pillows or wood pieces. This class is taught by Harriet Nolan, an accomplished artist and former teacher. The Friday art class is watercolors. This class is led by Katherine Rausch who brings many years of training to this class. Students provide their own supplies for both classes.

Bridge/Pinochle/Canasta

Bridge Everyone meets twice a week and is designed for beginner/novice to experienced players in the game of bridge. Friday Bridge is reserved for experienced/accomplished bridge players. If you want to participate in Friday Bridge, get a foursome together and come on out. For those new to the game, instruction is offered periodically throughout the year.

Pinochle is a trick-taking game typically for two to four players and played with a 48 card deck. Pinochle is played on Wednesdays and instruction in this fun and social card game are also offered during the year.

Canasta (a card game of the rummy family of games) is returning this year by popular demand.

Adventures In Learning Series

Our Adventures In Learning series offers lectures and workshops on a myriad of topics including history, economics, spirituality, the arts, world travel, technology, etc. Usually scheduled on Wednesday or Thursday, there is something for everyone here! Due to demand, you will need to sign up in advance to reserve your spot for most Adventures in Learning classes. Watch our newsletters for dates, time, and topics.

Something To Talk About

Beginning this fall 2011, Shepherd's Center will be hosting one different hobby class each month. For instance, we may have a book club one month, a sewing club the next, a photography club, etc. Each monthly gathering will have a different focus and will meet each week for one month. Hopefully, these mini classes will generate conversations about new, continuing group activities we would like to offer. So watch the coming calendar of events and join us for Something To Talk About and let's see what new things we decide to develop for The Shepherd's Center.

Choral Group

Do you love to sing? Check out our choral group on Mondays! There's something for everyone in the melodic mix of this lively group!

Reading Mentors

Experience is the best teacher, and you have a lifetime's worth. Don't let it go to waste. Share it. Reading Mentors is a partnership between Shepherd's Center and Fairforest Elementary School. Volunteer today to join this group which meets at Fairforest Elementary on Thursdays from 11:15-12:15. Volunteers are matched with an elementary school student who needs a reading mentor. No teaching experience necessary. All you need is a compassionate heart. Call Jennifer in the Shepherd's Center office for more information or to sign up as a mentor.