(507) 387-1666
421 East Hickory Street, Mankato, MN 56001
421 East Hickory Street, Mankato, MN 56001
The VINE Adult Community Center offers hundreds of fitness, educational, and creative classes and monthly bus trips to local and out-of-town destination.
Introduction to Origami
This session will explore the craft and art of paper folding.
Cost: No charge for members; $5 for non-members. Limited to 12 people. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 3/4 to register.
Jewelry, Nature and You
Iris will help you create an original pendent from found objects that she will provide, or you can bring your own treasures from nature or cannibalized old jewelry. (Additional supplies may be purchased from the artist.)
Cost: No charge for members; $5 for non-members. Limited to 16 people. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 3/17 to register.
Introduction to Acrylic Painting
Peggy will lead painters through various techniques of acrylic painting.
Cost: No charge for members; $5 for non-members. Limited to 16 people. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 3/27 to register.
Get Your Cards on this Spring
Participants will create hand-made cards using various techniques that will include watercolor, stamping and embossing. Come be inspired and get creative by completing six cards. Handmade cards are the perfect way to give personal expression to someone.
Cost: No charge for members; $5 for non-members. Limited to 12 people. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 4/18 to register.
Textile Printing
Local artist Lisa Bierer will teach a fun and easy textile printmaking class to spice up your décor.
Cost: No charge for members; $5 for non-members. Limited to 16 people. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 5/6 to register.
Chinese Brushstroke
Learn more about the art of ancient Chinese brushwork and the versatility of subjects and textures that can be achieved using one brush.
Cost: No charge for members; $5 for non-members. Limited to 16 people. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 5/15 to register.
Explore New CityArt Sculptures
The new CityArt Sculpture Walk will be installed on Saturday, May 16???, so join us to look at the “new class.” Afterward, feel free to join us as we stop at a City Center restaurant to get a cold beverage and discuss our favorites. Meet at Pub 500.
Cost: No charge for members; $5 for non-members. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 5/18 to register.
Memoir Writing
This group meets weekly to work on their own memoirs. Open to all VACC members. No need to sign up, just simply show up.
Painting
This group meets weekly to paint. Open to all VACC members. No need to sign up, just simply show up.
Spelling
This group meets weekly to compete in a friendly competition Spelling Bee. No need to sign up, just simply show up.
VINE Book Club
Any VACC member is welcome to join the VINE Book Club. The group meets once a month to discuss the book. The books are free to check out and can be picked up at the front desk of the VACC.
YARN CLUB
Grab a ball of yarn, a set of needles or a crochet hook, and let’s get creative! Come when you want. Stay as long as you want. Bring your own supplies (and questions)! You may bring a project you are working on. There will also be several patterns available for easy projects such as a felted bowl, a bunny blanket, and a mitered pot holder. Knitters and crocheters of all levels are invited!
Cost: No charge. Members only. Bring your own supplies.
EXPLORE VARIOUS MEDIA OF ART
Have you ever wanted to try drawing, painting, or other forms of art? Art on the VINE is offering a monthly exploration group for anyone interested in sharing these experiences. Every level of interest is welcome to come join in the fun.
BELL MUSEUM & PLANETARIUM
The day starts with going to the Planetarium show, “Out of This World!” Investigate the phases of the moon, be the first humans to land on Mars, and fly through the rings of Saturn. Then we will go on a guided tour at Minnesota’s official natural history museum and planetarium. Explore the far reaches of the universe, see a glimpse of the diversity of life on Earth, meet a woolly mammoth, and learn about researchers imagining a better future. Before, we will have lunch on your own at the Rosedale Mall.
Cost: $54 *lunch not included Call the Community Education at (507) 387-5501 to sign up and pay with a credit card by 3/13.
A DAY AT THE MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM
Enjoy a 4-hour day at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska, winner of USA TODAY’S 10 Best Readers’ Choice contest as Best Botanical Garden. You can visit their 1,200 acres of beautiful gardens, landscapes, tree and plant collections, and many specialty displays. Included is a “Flowerpot Lunch,” a guided tram tour and a discount at the Gift & Garden Store.
Cost: $65 Call the Community Education at (507) 387-5501 to sign up and pay with a credit card by 4/6.
Home Wi-Fi for TV, Alexa
People are finding they can personalize their television service — and often reduce monthly charges — by subscribing to streaming services instead of cable packages. But how do you decide if Roku, AppleTV or another method is best for you? Learn more before inviting Alexa into your home.
Cost: No charge for members; $5 for non-members. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 3/13 to register.
Best Use of Social Media
Learn how to safely use Facebook, Twitter, and other popular social media sites, from basic posting to uploading photos and more advanced features. Know what you’re safely sharing with one friend or, more importantly, what is being posted for everyone to see!
Cost: No charge for members; $5 for non-members. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 4/17 to register.
Using “The Cloud”
We’ve all heard of it: “the cloud.” But how many of us actually know what it is for computers and, more importantly, how many know how to utilize it? What are the safety concerns? What is the best way to access it? All of these questions – and more – will be addressed.
Cost: No charge for members; $5 for non-members. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 5/15 to register.
Dare to Repair
Staying on top of home maintenance tasks can help you avoid future headaches and expense. Many home repairs can be completed on your own without much experience or expense. You’ll learn how to make basic repairs to items around the house, as well as self-inspection of items to help prevent major repairs. Additionally, we’ll discuss how to make your home safer to stay in, from the garage to the bathroom! Bring your questions and Corey will be glad to answer them for you.
Cost: Free for members; $5 for non-members. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 4/1 to register.
Stories Around Camp Patterson
Al and Joanne Starke served for 39 years as caretakers at Kiwanis Camp Patterson on Lake Washington. They recently retired and handed over that task to their son and daughter-in-law, Nathan and Melissa Starke. Learn more about the life of this Mankato area camp that has been around since 1923 and learn about plans to expand facilities.
Cost: Free for members; $5 for non-members. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 4/6 to register.
Effective Communication with Alzheimer’s
Communication is more than just talking and listening – it is also about sending and receiving messages through attitude, tone of voice, facial expressions and body language. As people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias progress in their journey and the ability to use words is lost, families need new ways to connect. Join us to explore how communication takes place when someone has Alzheimer’s, learn to decode the verbal and behavioral messages delivered by someone with dementia, and identify strategies to help you connect and communicate at each stage of the disease.
Cost: Free for members; $5 for non-members. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 4/13 to register.
Group Fitness classes are FREE with a Premium or Platinum membership, $5 with Basic membership, $7 with Supporting Membership or $10 for non-members.
BARRE ABOVE
Barre Above® incorporates Pilates, yoga, aerobics and a variety of strength training exercises commonly used by dancers. This class can help improve posture, flexibility and balance while finding the strength of your inner dancer! (No dance skills required.) We will have yoga mats available but bring your own if you’d like.
BASIC YOGA
Basic Yoga will challenge you physically while helping maintain and improve your flexibility and form.
BEGINNING YOGA
If you have little or no yoga experience, our beginning yoga class will teach you some of the basic poses.
CARDIO-STRENGTH
Participants in Cardo-Strength will be challenged each week with a variety of aerobic and strength training activities: you never know what to expect!
CHAIR YOGA
10:15 – 11:15 am
This class is for those individuals who want to try yoga but are unable to get down onto the floor. Many yoga poses can be done from a chair rather than the ground.
GENTLE YOGA
Gentle Yoga focuses on moving slowly through poses with awareness on form and breath.
MOVE IT MORE
Movie it More offers a challenging workout for those with little or no difficulty with balance and walking.
PARTNERS IN ACTIVE LIVING (PALS)
PALS is a great class for those who want a safe and gradual increase in their activity level to improve strength, flexibility and balance. PALS is suitable for people of all fitness levels, including those who use a cane or walker.
QIGONG PRACTICE GROUP
Qigong incorporates coordinated body postures and movement with breathing and meditation. All activities can be done sitting or standing, and no previous Qigong experience is necessary.
RESTORATIVE YOGA
Restorative Yoga focuses on deep relaxation where poses are held for several minutes. Some yoga experience is required and class size is limited to eight students. Pre-registration is required. Call 386-5586.
ROLL AWAY THE TENSION
Using Yoga Tune-Up Balls®, you’ll massage muscles that are overused, underused, or misused. “Body blind spots” will be identified and targeted to help heal and strengthen damaged muscles while establishing healthy movement patterns. Activities will be done on the floor or against a wall. No registration required; join any class.
STRETCH AND FLEX
Start your day with some gentle stretches. Staying flexible can help you move better throughout your day and prevent common muscle injuries. In this 30-minute class you will move through simple stretches that target your upper, middle, and lower body muscles. Some stretches will be done from the floor. Warming up your muscles prior to class is recommended.
TE-KI-DO
This unique blend of easy martial arts was designed for people with little or no knowledge of its practice. The class is a way for older adults to increase their energy, improve balance, and decreases stress.
TREKKERS/SNOWSHOERS
Join the fun and adventurous trekking/snowshoeing group who meet rain or shine at different parks and trails in the area each week for a leisurely one-hour outing. Trekking poles and snowshoes are available to members for FREE or $10 for non-members. Call 507-387-1666 to find out the location each week.
View ScheduleZUMBA GOLD
Zumba Gold is designed with active older adults in mind: gentle on the body and easy-to-follow dance moves. If you enjoy listening to fun music while you dance, then ditch your workout and join the party!
The VINE Adult Community Center offers a number of different activities to partake in.
HOMELESSNESS IN THE MANKATO AREA
Winter in Minnesota can be fierce, particularly for the homeless. Join us for a panel discussion featuring organizations that provide shelter and other supports for people who are homeless in our region. Guest panelists will focus on causes of homelessness, available services and supports, homelessness prevention, and how we can make a difference. Panelists will answer questions from the audience.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 2/24 to register.
Register NowFIVE WISHES
Don’t put it off another day; complete your healthcare directive! Five Wishes will help you plan for care at the end of life and express how you want to be treated if you are unable to speak for yourself. The presentation will include a 30-minute DVD with instructions on how to complete your Five Wishes document.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. $5 for the Five Wishes document for ALL participants. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 2/28 to register.
Register NowCONNECT TO PLACE: DAKOTA AND THE MINNEOPA BISON
Dakota people helped prepare for and welcome bison at Minneopa State Park in Mankato when they were moved from Blue Mounds State Park. This partnership showed respect for the significance of bison to the Dakota culture and added another layer of meaning to their return. Learn about the role the Dakota played in Gwen Westerman welcoming bison back to their homeland and gain a wider perspective on how Mankato area people interact with the Dakota culture every day.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 3/2 to register.
Register NowDecline of American Life Expectancy
“Deaths of Despair” include suicide, drug overdose and alcohol-related fatalities. The increase in these deaths is the single reason that life expectancy in the United States declined for a third straight year in 2019. This presentation will introduce resilience and how learning the skills of resiliency will help an entire country overcome the decline in life expectancy one individual at a time.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 3/11 to register.
Register NowMaintaining Brain Health Presentation
Many older adults have questions about changes in memory and thinking abilities as they age. What are “normal” changes in thinking and memory? What are signs that these changes may indicate something more serious? Can memory loss be prevented? This program will provide some answers to these questions in order to help you maintain a healthy brain as you get older. Besides learning about some promising research that supports the value of cognitive training, VINE’s staff will be on hand to share information about Learners and Company and Mind Aerobics, two new programs funded by grants from the MN Board on Aging and the Brookdale Foundation.
Cost:FREE! Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 3/18 to register.
Register NowMayo Clinic: Mental Well-Being
Mental health is essential for personal well-being, caring for family and interpersonal relationships. Adjusting to a growth mindset will give you more resilience in the face of challenges and better outcomes throughout life. Benjamin Paul, D.O., will discuss daily habits to increase your mental well-being and develop your abilities to adapt to different situations.
Cost:FREE!. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 3/18 to register.
Register NowThe Power of Play
The Power of Play will highlight one of the most successful children’s museums in Minnesota. Play is essential in all human lives. Unfortunately, today children’s play is constrained by technology, structured activities, and “stranger danger,” among other impacts. This presentation will shed light on how the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota is positively impacting the children who will be our future employees, leaders, and innovators.
Cost:FREE for members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 3/24 to register.
Register NowMinnesota in the Vietnam War
This multimedia presentation will use Powerpoint, video, music, drama, role-playing and living history experiences to provide an understanding of this turbulent time and make history come alive for us. Arn Kind will describe the increasing commitment to the war of each of five American presidents, the rising antiwar protests at home and the eventual U.S. withdrawal from Vietnam, and the lingering tragic effects of a war that had never been declared. It is made possible in part by the people of Minnesota through a grant funded by an appropriation to the Minnesota Historical Society from the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund. It is presented in partnership with the Blue Earth County Library.
Cost:FREE. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 3/31 to register.
Register NowBetter Communication: Change and Loss
Do you avoid situations in which you are unsure of what to say? Are you uncomfortable in the face of acknowledging the death of a friend’s loved one, recent diagnosis, job loss, emotional instability or another uncomfortable situation? Learn how to communicate your support in difficult situations.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 4/14 to register.
Register NowTravel Forum: China
Dean recounts what he saw on a seven-day cruise down the Yangtze River. Sites included the world’s heaviest musical instrument in Wuhan; Lhasa in the mystical land of Tibet, known as the “Rooftop of the World” with a view of the majestic snowcapped Himalaya Mountains; walking the 400 steps to Potala Palace, formerly the home of the Dalai Lama; flying to Xian and observing one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, the Terra Cotta Warriors. He will talk about his visit to Beijing and walking on the amazing Great Wall of China. The 13,000-mile-long wall was built entirely by manual labor. Other places visited near Beijing included Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 4/14 to register.
Register NowMayo Clinic: Your Skin As You Age
Did you know cancer of the skin is the most common of all cancers, but not all skin cancers are the same? Sultan Mirza, M.D., will discuss types of skin cancers, what to look for and when to see a dermatologist. He also will discuss other common skin issues that appear gradually as we age.
Cost:FREE . Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 4/15 to register.
Register NowBetter Communication: Worldview Differences
Do you find it challenging to have conversations with people whose point of view differs from yours? You’ll learn how to communicate when someone’s overall view of the world and related issues is unlike your own without jeopardizing your relationship.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 4/21 to register.
Register NowThe Benefits of Diversity
From its origins, the United States has grown and benefited through the contributions of diverse populations who came here in search of success. In the process, they have made American culture richer and more inclusive. We will discuss local contributions from people of Native American cultures.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 4/24 to register.
Register NowGet Your Ducks in a Row
This program will provide guidance for gathering and storing significant personal information so it’s available to your loved ones after you die. Join VINE staff and others for this important discussion. Give yourself and your family a sense of security and peace of mind. A guidebook can be purchased for $10 and includes all of the information you need.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 4/24 to register.
Register NowFive Wishes
Don’t put it off another day; complete your healthcare directive! Five Wishes will help you plan for care at the end of life and express how you want to be treated if you are unable to speak for yourself. The presentation will include a 30-minute DVD with instructions on how to complete your Five Wishes document.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 4/27 to register.
Register NowBoy in Blue War Memorial: Then and Now
This presentation details the history of the Civil War monument erected in Mankato’s historic Lincoln Park in 1893, its demise and recent reconstruction. Future plans for the memorial and how it will be used to educate and inform will be discussed. The Boy in Blue: Blue Earth County Minnesota’s Civil War Memorial by Schrader and Stenzel will be available for sale and signing.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 5/4to register.
Register NowSo Now What? Get Unstuck
Do you feel stuck in your life? Catherine Brennan, CEO of Brennan Companies and owner of the blog “Look Better. Feel Better. Do Better,” will talk about why this happens and what can be done about it.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 5/6 to register.
Register NowMayo Clinic: Chronic Pain Treatment
Pain can be debilitating, but what is chronic pain? Matthew Schumann, licensed psychologist, will discuss the difference between chronic pain and acute pain, factors that impact individual’s chronic pain and evidence-based treatment approaches for older adults with chronic pain.
Cost:FREE! Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 5/13 to register.
Register NowUnderstanding Dementia-Related Behavior
Behavior is a powerful form of communication and is one of the primary ways for people with dementia to communicate their needs and feelings as the ability to use language is lost. However, some behaviors can present real challenges for caregivers to manage. Join us to learn to decode behavioral messages, identify common behavior triggers, and learn strategies to help intervene with some of the most common behavioral challenges of dementia.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 5/6 to register.
Register NowFOOT CARE CLINIC
Pathstone Home Care staffs this monthly foot care clinic. Bring your own basin and towel. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 to schedule an appointment.
Cost: $27
Understanding Veterans’ End-of-Life Issues
This presentation will address veterans’ unique struggles, regardless of the theater in which they served. Consequences of service may include disease, disability and illness that can complicate end-of-life care. Symptoms of depression and post-traumatic stress disorder may also present themselves. Our veterans and their families have given much. One way to honor and thank them is to better understand and accompany them through end-of-life.
Cost:FREE for veterans thanks to the Veterans 4 Veterans Trust Fund. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 4/28 to register.
Register Now| MONDAY | TUESDAY | WEDNESDAY | THURSDAY | FRIDAY | SATURDAY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open Swim 7:30-9 am | Open Swim 7:30-10 am | Open Swim 7:30-9 am | Open Swim 7:30-10 am | Open Swim 7:30-9 am | Open Swim 8-10 am |
| Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 2 9-10 am | Warm Water Exercise - Level 3 10-10:45 am | Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 2 9-10 am | Warm Water Exercise - Level 3 10-10:45 am | Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 2 9-10 am | *Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 2 10-11 am |
| Open Swim 10-11 am | Aqua Yoga (level 1) 11-11:45 am | Deep Water Exercise (level 2/3) 10:15-11 am | Aqua Yoga (level 1) 11-11:45 am | Open Swim 10 am - 12 pm | *Aqua Zumba in place of Warm Water Exercise 1st Sat. of the month 10-11 am |
| Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 1 11:15 am - 12 pm | Open Swim 12-1 pm | Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 1 11:15 am - 12 pm | Open Swim 12-1 pm | Private Rental 1-5 pm | Open Swim 11-11:30 am |
| Open Swim 12-1 pm | Private Rental 1-5 pm | Open Swim 12-1 pm | Private Rental 1-5 pm | ||
| Private Rental 1-3 pm | Warm Water Exercise (level 1/2) 5:15-6 pm | Private Rental 1-3 pm | Open Swim 5-6:30 pm | ||
| Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 2 3-4 pm | Open Swim 6-6:30 pm | Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 2 3-4 pm | |||
| Open Swim 4-6:30 pm | Open Swim 4-6:30 pm |
Level 1: Gentle movement including walking, stretching, and balance activities. May include use of noodles, kickboards, and weights.
Level 2: May include jogging, jumping, twisting, and constant movement. Weights, kickboards, and noodles are often incorporated.
Level 3: May include deep water exercise and rigorous movement. Weights, kickboard, noodles, and water belts are often incorporated.
