Meaningful Life Learning Circles
As we begin to build our adult transition pathway at Club 21, we are prioritizing the following four pillars:
- Opportunities for Life Long Learning
- Independence/ Interdependence
- Communities of Belonging
- Meaningful Employment
Each of these 6-week virtual seminars will teach students tangible skills in relation to their topics with our four transition pillars at their center.
The instruction will be conducted virtually via Zoom and will use resources from the Center for Independent Futures My Full Life curriculum in addition to supplementary materials compiled by the instructor.
Young adults must 17 years old or older to participate.
When: All seminars will last for 6 weeks and meet virtually twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4pm-5:30pm.
Session 1: Life Long Learner September 10-October 17, 2024
In this class, participants will be exposed to the idea that learning is a process that lasts a lifetime. Students will create an action plan with SMART goals for self learning. They will also learn how to identify a problem, determine important details about the problem and follow a set of specific problem solving steps to solve it.
Session 2: Community Engagement: *November 5-December 19 (Week off for Thanksgiving 11/25-11/24)
In this class, participants will advocate for a desired change in their life. They will also learn how to interact with strangers in a safe way and practice ways to respond to good and bad strangers in a variety of circumstances. We will discuss their rights which are protected under the American Disabilities Act (ADA). Finally, we will develop ideas around community responsibility such as volunteering, supporting the environment, and advocating for something important.
Session 3: Health and Wellness : January 14-February 20
In this class, participants will gain an understanding of 4 areas of Wellness – Physical Health, Spiritual Health, Psychological and Emotional Health, and Safety. Personal Wellness needs will be identified. We will also review the steps to setting Goals and Action Plans in the area of Wellness. Lastly, we will identify community resources to assist us in our wellness journey.
Session 4: Employment Skills and Exploration March 11-April 24 (Week off for Spring Break 3/31-4/4)
In this class, participants will explore career options and learn how to look for a job based on personal interests and goals. We will also learn about the essential components of a resume and practice interview questions . In addition, we will discuss the importance of being on time, following a schedule at work, and time management.
Session #5: Summer Session *May 13-June 19
Cost: $200 for each 6 week class
Lead Instructor: Heather Blanco
Contact: teens@clubtwentyone.org OR transitions@clubtwentyone.org
My name is Heather Blanco and I am an Education Specialist. I have worked in education for over 15 years. I started as a Preschool teacher and then transitioned into being a paraprofessional. I've worked in Elementary, Middle and High School settings. In 2010, I started working as an Education Specialist in High School. I have over 10 years of experience working as a teacher, case carrier and the department chair. Recently, I’ve led the Club Connections Programs for both High School and Beyond. My mission is to help individuals work towards their goals to be more independent, engaged and lifelong learners.
