Lifelong Learning

Ongoing Programs & Activities

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 608-266-6581.

Craft and Coffee

One Monday a Month, 9:30 - 11:00am

Join us for coffee, crafting, and creativity. Each month we do a something different. Registration in advance helps us to plan and have enough supplies. Check the Messenger or the Events Calendar for which Monday we are meeting and more information about the project for the month.

Craft with Kids

4th Wednesdays, 9:30 - 11:00am

Join our visiting preschool class for a craft and activities. Registration is required, and we are looking for older adults who can commit to attending multiple craft days.

Exploring Poetry

2nd Wednesday, 11:00am – 12:30pm

This program is for anyone who enjoys poetry. There are opportunities to read, recite, and write. 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 they can say precisely what needs to be said.

Great Courses to Check Out

We have offered a small library of DVDs produced by the company Great Courses. These are video-taped, semester-long courses from professors all over the country. The DVD sets are available to check out and watch on your own at the Senior Center or at home. Inquire at the Front Desk if you are interested. 

Line Dance Class

Wednesdays, 10:00 - 10:50am

Get ready to step, shuffle, and groove in our fun and friendly Line Dance Class designed especially for older adults! Instructor Tara Jackson is offering six sessions, where you’ll learn popular line dances including Boots on the Ground, Cowgirl Trail Ride, Cleveland Shuffle, and Bad Boy by Luther Vandross. Whether you prefer to dance standing or seated, everyone is welcome to join and move at their own pace. Classes are free - come enjoy great music, light exercise, and a chance to connect with others in a supportive environment. No prior experience needed - just bring your enthusiasm! Check the Messenger for session dates.

Participatory Learning and Teaching Organization (PLATO) 

PLATO is a community of intellectually curious adults, typically 50 and over, which explores subjects of interest through member-led discussion groups, lectures, travel, and cultural activities. MSC is a host site for 3 - 4 programs each semester. Visit platomadison.org for a full list of programs and host locations, and to sign up for membership and events.

Watercolor Painting

Wednesdays, 9:00 - 11:00am

Paint to relax and express yourself while you chat and enjoy a coffee (or tea!) with other older adults. When available, one of our volunteers will join in. All of the supplies are provided, and no advanced signup is needed.

Writing Your Life

Thursdays, 10:00 - 11:30am, runs in 6 week sessions

We all have stories to tell about our life experiences, friends, and families. Some of these stories encompass the joys of achievement, celebration, milestone moments, and love. Others detail the harder parts of life: jealousy, betrayal, sadness, loss. Our stories define us. The Greater Madison Writing Project’s “Writing Your Life” workshops help you find the stories you want to tell and give you writing strategies to craft them into the stories that you want to share. Each 90-minute session includes exploration of different writing strategies and opportunities to write and seek feedback in a welcoming and enthusiastic community. Led by Mark Nepper. Check the Messenger for session dates. Does not meet in the summer.

Discussion Groups

Gray, Gay & Beyond

2nd and 4th Thursdays, 2:00 – 4:00 pm

GG&B is a discussion group for those fortunate enough to have arrived, that is, for those who know the obstacles, but also recognize that there have been joys. Those who look beyond the closet. Let's get together to consider our individual selves, our unique strengths and the nature of our ever-changing world. Sponsored by the LGBTQ 50+ Alliance. 

Spanish Conversation

Wednesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm virtual

¿Quieres practicar tu español? Our group meets every week to chat in Spanish. Come when you can. There are no attendance requirements. All levels welcome. Spanish Conversation meets over Zoom. Email the Madison Senior Center for a Zoom invite.

Podcast Discussion Group

2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 10:00 - 11:00 am 

Watch a video podcast or listen to an audio podcast about a local issue and discuss it afterwards while enjoying coffee and refreshments.  See the Messenger for the schedule discussion topics.