ALERT - This class was originally set for 1/28/25 and is now starting 3/4/25.

The basic skills of carving and finishing a wooden duck, songbird, or small whale will be covered, along with an introduction to safety and equipment in this 6-week series in woodcarving. Supplies, including a sharp knife and a cut-proof glove will be provided by the instructor and will go home with the students.. If the first project is completed, there will be options for another. Wayne Robbins has been carving since Boy Scouts, and has taught carving for nearly as long. His work is represented in several galleries along the coast and he has sculptures in most every state and several countries. Birds and sea creatures are his favorite topic. 

(Six week course, no class week of 2/17 [winter break]) 

Learn to play the ukulele! It has never been more popular and you don’t even have to know how to read music! On the uke you can knock out folk music, rock, blues, jazz, pop, country, tunes old and new -even Classical music. Duncan Perry, who has taught more than 700 students of all ages, will introduce you to essential chords and playing techniques using commonly known songs. Oh, and there are lots of laughs along the way. And, learning to play an instrument is good for your brain! You will need a playable ukulele and an electronic tuner or a tuner app. And when folks hear you play this happy instrument, well, they just have to smile! If you don’t own a ukulele, please contact us for information. Students must have an audio and video-enabled laptop, desktop, or tablet with reliable internet to participate in class. We do not recommend using a smartphone.

In four weekly Zoom sessions of lively activities and discussion, you will assess your own skills, interests, and experiences to figure out what career options might be best. You will then be guided to create an action plan that will help you achieve success. Students must have an audio- and video-enabled laptop, desktop, or tablet with reliable internet to participate in class. We do not recommend using a smartphone. For more information, visit newventuresmaine.org

Join our immersive cooking class where you’ll learn the time-honored secrets behind New York’s iconic bagels. In this hands-on experience, you’ll craft your own bagel dough from scratch knead it to perfection, and master the art of hand-rolling. As the dough transforms into those chewy, golden rings, we’ll guide you through the traditional boiling and baking process - the very same steps that make Brooklyn bagels legendary. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious food enthusiast, this class promises a delightful journey into bagel bliss. All ingredients, materials, equipment, and recipes will be provided. 

Could you use a boost in your job search? This one-hour workshop is for job seekers of all backgrounds who are unemployed, underemployed, or looking for a new job. Our professional staff will guide you to create your own job search plan and review resources available to help you, including online job searching and networking. Students must have an audio- and video-enabled laptop, desktop, or tablet with reliable internet to participate in class. We do not recommend using a smartphone. For more information, visit newventuresmaine.org.

Do you have children who will be looking at college in the next few years or are you considering returning to school yourself? Now is a great time to start thinking about the college financial aid process and ways to boost college savings. The earlier you start, the more confident and relaxed you will feel when it is time to apply for financial aid. Students must have an audio- and video-enabled laptop, desktop, or tablet with reliable internet to participate in class. We do not recommend using a smartphone.

Questions about Medicare? Join Jo-Ann Neal for this informational seminar outlining the basics of Medicare. Jo-Ann will answer your questions including what Medicare does and does NOT cover when to enroll, the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement Plans, and which plan is best for you. Following the presentation, Jo-Ann will be available for a question and answer session. Jo-Ann Neal of Allen Insurance and Financial is a licensed insurance agent specializing in Medicare. Jo-Ann joined Allen Insurance and Financial in May 2013, bringing with her 10+ years of human resources and benefits administration experience. In 2016, she earned a Benefits Account Manager certification from the National Association of Health Insurance Underwriters and became appointed to work with customers on Medicare plans. 

There are many different facets to the student loan program that can be powerful in helping you achieve your financial goals but also can be confusing. If you are struggling with your payments, did you know there are several income-based repayment plans as well as deferment or forbearance? Did you know you could get .25% off your interest rate if you sign up for auto-debit on your federal loans? Do you know you can work towards loan forgiveness now if you work for a non-profit, government or tribal agency? Whether you have recently graduated from college or have been repaying your students loans for a long time, join us to learn how to best manage your student loan repayment. Join Nikki Vachon, College Access Counselor from the Finance Authority of Maine as she shares pro-tips and answers questions.