Madison Senior Center

Regular Programs

The joy of learning never ends, and it turns out that continuing to learn new things is good for the brain, and may even help us to live longer. To register for programs, you can email us or call us at 608-267-8651.

Conversational Spanish
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 2:30 pm Virtual - In person one time a month
Do you want to practice your Spanish? Our group meets every week to chat in Spanish. Pop in when you can. There are no attendance requirements. Once you are registered you will be sent an invite with a link to join the conversation. All levels welcome. Spanish Conversation meets via Zoom except for the first Monday of the month. We meet in person on the first Monday at the Madison Senior Center. Registration Required. 


Exploring Poetry

2nd & 4th Wednesday, 11 – 12:30
This program is for anyone who enjoys poetry. There will be opportunities to read, recite and write. Best Words, Best Order is the title of a collection of essays by the poet Stephen Dobyns which in just those four well chosen words perfectly describes what a poet aspires to when putting a poem together. Writing poetry is spills and thrills for the beginner and expert too. There are countless small pitfalls but sometimes in the writing something happens, an ah ha moment where the poet feels he/she can say or almost say precisely what’s needs to be said. Think about how a joke works, it’s a little like that. Registration Required.

Great Courses to Check Out

Over the last few years we have offered a number of courses that are produced by the company Great Courses. These are video-taped, semester long courses from professors all over the country. Past courses are available on DVD to check out and watch on your own at the senior center or at home. Inquire at the Front Desk if you are interested.

Non -Traditional Doll Making & Fabric Art

Wednesdays, 1:00 – 4:00 pm
Express yourself using simple sewing techniques. Local artist, Wendy Fern Hutton class guides you through the process of creating something that speaks to your soul- an animal totem, a medicine doll or maybe a spirit guide. Use fabrics, beads, feathers, ribbons, sequins, or anything else you can think of. The cost is $50.00 for the first four classes and then $25 for every four classes thereafter. Please pay the instructor. Registration Required.

Preschool Buddies 

2nd Thursday of each month during the school year, 9:45 - 11:00 am
This delightful intergenerational program is starting its 25th year. Two to three Adult volunteers are matched up with two to three preschool children, and they do a project together. Teachers, MSC staff and volunteers so all preparation. Usually there will also be a story and/or songs to accompany the project. Call John Weichelt, 267-2344 for more information.

Voices of Color

Third Thursdays, 10 – 11 am Virtual 
A monthly series, hosted by Melvin Hinton, that gives you the opportunity to have engaging conversations with community leaders who are People of Color.

Our community is a rich mix of of many different cultures. Being an inclusive community means learning about and appreciating our differences. It means unlearning stereotypes and ideas that we may have of one another; some of which are ingrained in the fabric of society. 

Registration required to attend. If you would like to be a guest or recommend someone from the community, Contact John Weichelt, 608-267-2344.
 

Technology

Whether you want to learn how to use a new technology, save money or avoid financial scams, we host a wide range of program to meet your needs. 

Computer Lab

• Open during building hours, 8:30 am - 4:00 pm
• There may be times when the Computer Lab is unavailable if programs are scheduled in the lab or if there are too many people . 
• Use one of our available computers, or use our work space and bring your own device.

Computer/Technology Assistance

Basic Technology support including: smart phone basics, downloading apps, social media, virus protection, and email.

Digital Photography support including: photo editing, enhancements, HDR capture, storage, and online gallery presentations.

Website Design including: domain registration, website management, and working with web hosting companies.

Share  your computer challenges or questions with John Weichelt to schedule an appointment at 608-267-2344 or jweichelt@cityofmadison.com. Understanding and advancing your use of technology is about your ambitions and not about your age.

Tablets2Go

This is a Tablet Loan Program that developed in response to the changing technology needs created by the pandemic. Our goal is for all seniors to have access to technology and the internet. If you want to take a virtual program, and don't have a computer, we want to lend you a tablet. Staff provide an overview of how to use the tablet. All technology abilities welcome!  Available to adults age 55+. Call  or email 608-266-6581 to schedule an appointment to to check out a tablet.