Classes and Workshops

Tuesdays, October 21 - November 25, 2025 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Wednesday, October 22, 2025 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Experience the history, aesthetics, and mindfulness at the heart of the traditional tea ceremony. Presented by Wei Qin, Asian Arts New York.

Register here

Wednesday, October 22, 2025 from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm

Thursday, October 23, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm

During these three consecutive classes students will explore using 3 different art mediums (graphite, colored and watercolor pencils)  and various techniques to create beautiful fall leaves. 

Materials needed:

• Week 2 Colored Pencils: 24-36 set of Colored Pencils (Faber Castell, Prismacolor, Derwent, Caran D Ache), Dark Sepia Colored Pencil, Colorless Blender

Cost: $24.56 JCC Members/$28.66 Guests per week plus materials.

Register here for Week 2 (10/23) Colored Pencils

Thursday, October 30, 2025 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of insight, storytelling, and lunch—featuring Emmy and Peabody Award-winning filmmaker Sheila Curran Bernard, as she discusses her most recent book: Bring Judgment Day: Reclaiming Lead Belly’s Truths from Jim Crow’s Lies. This powerful work uncovers the untold story of American musical legend Lead Belly (1889–1949), offering a gripping case study in crime, punishment, and systemic racism. After the discussion, we’ll enjoy Lead Belly’s music performed by George Wilson and a catered lunch by the Healthy Café. Open to the community. Cost: $10.24 JCC Members/NNORC Residents or $12.28 Guests.

Register here

Thursday, October 30, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm

Mondays, November 3, 17 and 24, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm

Explore the healing power of poetry in this warm and welcoming adult workshop inspired by How to Love the World: Poems of Gratitude and Hope, edited by James Crews. Through guided readings, thoughtful discussions, and optional writing prompts, participants will engage with poems that celebrate appreciation, resilience, and connection to nature and community.

Each session offers a chance to reflect, share memories, and express creativity in a relaxed environment. Whether you're a lifelong poetry lover or simply curious, this workshop invites you to slow down, savor language, and connect—with the words, with others, and with yourself. No writing experience is needed, and no supplies are required—just an open heart and a love of life. Cost: Free for JCC Members / $10.24 for Program Guests.

Register here

Tuesday, November 4, 2025 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

The internet can be an excellent source for learning more about your or a loved one’s health. This presentation will introduce you to the topics and tools offered on two reputable websites, MedlinePlus and Mayo Clinic. You’ll also learn how to evaluate healthrelated information online. Free and open to the community.

Register here

Tuesday, November 4, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

Tuesday, November 11, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

Join us for two exciting 2-hour collage sessions where we'll explore color, size, shape, and imagery to create expressive, eye-catching compositions. Whether you're a beginner or have collage experience, these sessions offer a playful and inspiring space to experiment and grow.

Session 1 (Nov. 4): Create a collage on paper
Session 2 (Nov. 11): Create a collage on canvas

You can sign up for one or both sessions. Each offers a unique experience and all supplies are included.

All supplies included. Cost: $30.71 JCC Members/$35.82 Guests per session. 

Register here for Tuesday, November 4

Register here for Tuesday, November 11

Wednesday, November 5, 2025 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Presented by Allyson Nathan, founder and principal of Fortina Senior Solutions, a trusted resource for "all things aging."

Learn about the options available for aging in place at home versus moving to a senior living community. This presentation covers the differences between types of senior living, how to compare costs, available funding options, and the importance of planning ahead. You'll also learn how to recognize when help is needed-and what steps to take when that time comes. Free and open to the community.

Register here

Wednesdays, Starting November 5, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm

In this program, you'll get a full year of support and learn how to eat healthy, add physical activity to your routine, manage stress, stay motivated, and solve problems that can get in the way of your goals. This program is proven to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. 

Please note: This program is for adults who are at risk or have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes only. We'll meet weekly for the first six months then transition to once a month.

Register here

Wednesday, November 5, 2025 from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm

Thursday, November 6, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm

In this 2 ½ hour class students will be using the process of toning using graphite pencils and then lay down color over  the piece to produce a beautiful Bittersweet Branch.  

Materials Needed:

• A 9x12 Pad Strathmore or Canson Bristol Smooth Paper
• Ruler
• Graphite Pencils 2H, H, HB 
• Kneaded and PVC Erasers
• 24-36 set of Colored Pencils ( Faber Castell, Prismacolor, Derwent, Caran D Ache are nice)
• Dark Sepia Colored Pencil
• Colorless Blender

Register here

Thursday, November 6, 2025 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm

Join us for the remarkable story of resilience and self-discovery with Peter George Balint. Born during an air raid in Budapest, Peter’s life was shaped by war, loss, and displacement. His father was killed on a bridge over the Danube during a death march from Mauthausen concentration camp. After fleeing communist Hungary, Peter’s family returned to Germany and eventually immigrated to the United States when he was just 13.

Drawing from his memoir, The Shoe in the Danube: The immigrant experience of a holocaust survivor, Peter shares his journey of understanding his origins and navigating the cultural divide between his German upbringing and his American academic and professional life. This heartfelt conversation honors the strength of refugees, survivors, and those who dare to begin again.

Open to the Community.

A catered lunch from the Healthy Café will be served immediately following the discussion. Registration closes on November 2.

Cost: $10.24 JCC Members/NNORC Residents or $12.28 Guests.

Register here

Monday, November 12, 2025 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Get ready to shout "BINGO!" and win some fantastic prizes. Light refreshments and snacks.

Register here

Friday, November 14, 2025 from 10:30 am to 11:30 am

Medicare is a complex topic, but there are online resources to help! In this lecture, we’ll discuss ways to find information about Medicare online. We’ll explore medicare.gov and an example private insurance website to learn about the tools and resources they offer. You’ll learn how to navigate these websites confidently to find what you need, including using the search bar and Chat features. We’ll also introduce the State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or shiphelp.org, which is a great resource for getting trusted 1:1 guidance on Medicare.

Please note that this lecture focuses on how to find reliable information on Medicare and does not provide advice on Medicare enrollment or plans. 

Free and open to the community.

Registration coming soon!

Sunday, November 16, 2025 from 7:00 am to 9:30 pm 

This trip to open to everyone ages 5 years and up. 

• Each registration includes round-trip transportation on a climate-controlled chartered bus and one (1) Orchestra Section ticket to the Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at 2:00 PM
• Drop-off and pick-up will be at Bryant Park.
• Radio City Music Hall is approximately a 6–8 block walk from Bryant Park.
• The show runs 90 minutes with no intermission..
• You'll have time before and after the performance to explore nearby attractions such as: Bryant Park Winter Village, Rockefeller Center and Times Square
• No refunds will be issued.
• Please check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Register here (Waitlist)

Tuesday, November 18, 2025 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am

Mindfulness is the ability to be fully present and aware. You can practice mindfulness through simple activities. This lecture introduces mindfulness and its physical and mental benefits, such as reducing anxiety, improving memory, and lowering blood pressure. You’ll learn about popular apps that teach breathing and meditation techniques, as well as new technology like wearable breath monitors and smart yoga mats. Free and open to the community. 

Register here

Tuesday, November 18, 2025 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Think that fitness apps are only for athletes? This lecture covers many different types of fitness apps, whatever your health and wellness goals. We'll discuss apps that can help you track your nutrition and activity, plan your workouts, stay motivated and even get better sleep. You’ll learn about the benefits of fitness apps and popular apps in each category. Free and open to the community.

Register here

Wednesday, November 19, 2025 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Jillian from the Capital Region SNAP-Ed will:

• Demonstrate a delicious recipe that is quick, easy and affordable
• Provide the recipe and cooking instructions
• Offer samples of the recipe prepared during the demonstration

Cost: Free

Register here

Wednesday, November 19, 2025 from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm

Thursday, November 20, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm

Come join us for a heartwarming creative session where you’ll craft your very own Gratitude Jar—a beautiful way to celebrate joy, mindfulness, and positivity this holiday season. As part of the experience, we’ll also take time to explore the meaning of gratitude and how it can enrich our lives and deepen our connections. All supplies included. Cost: $10.24 for JCC Members & Guests.

Register here

Friday, November 21, 2025 from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm

Enjoy a warm cup of tea as we explore timeless Jewish wisdom through the lens of Mussar—an ethical tradition focused on cultivating traits like humility, patience, and gratitude. Through thoughtful discussion and personal reflection, this monthly class offers practical insights for living with greater mindfulness, intention, and integrity.

Whether you're new to Mussar or deepening an existing practice, you'll find a welcoming space to engage with Torah in a way that’s both intellectually rich and spiritually nourishing. No prior experience required—just an open heart and a curious mind. Free and open to the community.

Register here

Tuesday, November 25, 2025 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am

Did you know that your smartphone is also a powerful health tool? This lecture introduces common health apps, like the iPhone's built-in app and the Google Fit app. You'll learn about using the app's step counter, as well as integrating information from other popular health and fitness apps. You'll also learn the benefits of saving your medical ID. Free and open to the community.

Register here

Tuesday, November 25, 2025 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Sleep troubles? What if tech could help you sleep? This lecture gives an overview of different devices and wearable technologies that track sleep patterns, monitor sleep disorders, and may even improve your sleep. You’ll also learn about mindfulness apps that offer guided meditations and other ways to promote healthy sleep habits. Free and open to the community.

Register here

Sunday, December 7, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

The Older Adult Resource Expo is designed for older adults and caregivers to explore local resources, activities, and programs that support aging well. The event is proudly supported by Assemblymember Gabriella Romero's office.

More details coming soon!

Tuesday, December 16, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm

In this new 2 1/2 hrs  class students will create a  pastel painting by using various techniques. Color Theory and composition will be discussed while students watch a quick demonstration. By  the end of class students will have created a lovely Pinetree Landscape.

Materials Needed:

• U-Art Pastel Paper  400 or 600
• Soft Pastels  (Nu-Pastels, Rembrandt, Paul Rueben, Sennilier, are nice)
• Charcoal Pencil and Kneaded Eraser 
• Smudger/blender  (tortillion)  and old rag

Register here

Wednesday, December 17, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm

This uplifting concert brings together singers of all ages to share melodies that inspire, connect, and delight this hoiliday season!  

Lunch is available for adults 60+ years at 12:00pm.  Reservations are required for lunch—please call 518-438-6651 to reserve your spot. The deadline to register for lunch is Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 10:00 AM.

Please register to attend the concert if you are not joining us for lunch at 12:00 pm.

Register here (concert only)

Wednesdays,October 15 to December 17, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

Come & Sing with Sherri Strichman! Participants must be able to carry a tune and take direction.  Free for JCC Members! $18.42 per quarter for Program Guests. 

Register here

Tuesday, March 24, 2026

Save the date for an extrordinary three-course lunch at Ristorante Caterina de'Medici.  Participants wil have the choice of two entrees. After lunch, we will visit a museum near Hyde Park. 

More details coming soon!

Wednesdays, October 8 to December 17, 2025 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am

The Healthy Bones for Life Exercise and Education Program is a community- based program designed for men and women who are 55+. The exercise program consists of weight-bearing exercises, muscle strengthening, flexibility, posture training, and balance exercises. Cost: Free for Members/$10.24 per quarter for Program Guests.

Registration is closed.

Monday, September 29 - December 8, 2025 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Build your personal playbook for aging well! This fun, innovative program empowers you to take key steps to improve your well-being, add stability to your life and strengthen ties to your community. Meet new friends and provide encouragement to one another as you take the Aging Mastery journey together.

Registration is closed.