What We Do

Creativity

“I came from an era where I’d say, ‘Oh, I’m just a housewife.’ Now, I can say to you, ‘I am an artist. I am an actor. I am a poet. Isn’t that wonderful?’”
— Jean R.

We believe that people of all ages, regardless of previous exposure to the arts, can develop an appreciation for art and become practicing artists. We eliminate barriers by providing accessible, multidisciplinary arts programs ranging from music and dance to writing, acting, and painting on site at no charge. We dispel pervasive misconceptions such as, “I am not an artist” or “I’m not creative,” by encouraging participation and providing support. To showcase and celebrate participants’ achievements, classes have culminating events such as art exhibits and performances which are open to friends, family, and neighbors.

Our creativity programs are based on research by Dr. Gene Cohen and others who have shown that structured arts education fosters mastery and promotes social engagement – key deterrents to feelings of isolation and loneliness at any age.

Classes & Programs

  • Visual Arts: painting, drawing, mixed media, printmaking, ceramics, photography

  • Creative Writing: fiction, plays, film scripts, poetry

  • Storytelling

  • Acting

  • Filmmaking

  • Music: choral, instrumental

  • Needlecrafts

  • Jewelry-making

  • Culinary Arts

  • Art Exhibits

  • Music & Film Appreciation

  • Cultural Excursions

Wellness

“Coming to class has made me want to be more active and get more enjoyment out of life. ”
— Harold K.

EngAGE wellness programs offer residents an accessible and supportive way to make healthy lifestyle choices, plus a social network that makes the process fun and boosts accountability. Each year, more research is released showing the importance of diet and exercise, stress management, and quality sleep as a path to reduce the risk of chronic disease, improve quality of life, and increase longevity. 

To support access to healthy food, we offer food pantry programs, community gardens, and nutrition and cooking classes. And to help support an active lifestyle, we offer an array of cardio exercise, strength training, adapted yoga and Pilates, and tai chi, among other classes.

Classes & Programs

  • Tai Chi

  • Yoga

  • Meditation

  • Adapted Pilates

  • Dance Exercise

  • Strength Training

  • Flexibility and Balance

  • Nutrition & Healthy Cooking

  • Healthy Lifestyle

  • Wellness Fairs

  • Falls Prevention

  • Gardening (food and flowers)

  • Stress Reduction

  • Learned Optimism

  • Grief Groups

  • Managing Depression

Lifelong Learning

“This class has helped me learn how to try something new, to grow into greatness.”
— Agnes H.

Through classes, interest groups, and special events, residents have opportunities to learn about the latest technology, financial literacy and scam prevention, health news, music appreciation, and more, all in a supportive environment. 

Research shows that curiosity is key. Not only does it make us want to learn new things, but it makes our brains more receptive to information and creates a sense of joy and satisfaction from the process.

Classes & Programs

  • Computers & Technology

  • Social Media

  • Current Events & Lectures

  • Successful Aging & Disease Management Support

  • Genealogy

  • Book Club

  • Financial Literacy

  • Horticulture

  • Discussion Groups

Across the Generations

“This class brought us closer together as friends and neighbors.”
— Patricia N.

Research shows the importance of continued learning and skill development across all ages and stages of life.

With a focus on storytelling, the arts, gardening, food, and social connection, we create opportunities for intergenerational exchange and understanding where older adults can support and learn alongside youth, and through which the perspectives and talents of young people are valued and cultivated.

Classes & Programs

  • Collaborative Art Projects

  • Cooking

  • Computers & Technology

  • Current Events

  • Dance Classes 

  • Experiential Learning

  • Gardening

  • History Programs

  • Social Media

  • Storytelling

Creating Community

“Not only does painting give me good feelings, but the community of artists that I work with is very rewarding. ”
— Ethel G.

The EngAGE mission is to empower people intellectually, creatively, and emotionally by delivering life-enhancing programming tailored to the unique interests of the communities we serve. Our programs not only encourage personal growth, they also provide participants with opportunities to feel a sense of belonging, to meet neighbors and develop friendships through shared experiences. This is how we create community for all ages.

Classes & Programs

  • Coffee and Conversation Hours

  • Holiday and Birthday Celebrations

  • Special Events Featuring Live Entertainment

  • Art Show Openings

  • Visits to Museums and Other Local Attractions