All classes are free and open to anyone interested (participants do not have to meet income or geographic guidelines unless noted otherwise). Current CAC clients are encouraged to sign up for classes.  For more information on all classes, contact Julie Reid, julie.reid@cackc.org, 816-763-3277 x 110
December Classes

Learning About Developmental RelationshipsTM: December 11, 1 – 2:30 pm
  • For anyone wanting to learn more about developmental relationships that result in high chances for success in children/youth.
  • Presented by Shane Young, MSW, ReDiscover Mental Health Center
  • Register HERE to receive a ZOOM for video or phone call link for the session
It’s not enough to say that relationships matter. We’ve known for decades that high-quality relationships are essential to young people’s growing, learning, and thriving—including for those young people who face serious stresses in their lives and in the world around them. Educational success and social-emotional development blossom when caring adults and supportive peers are present in young people’s lives, and build developmental relationships. Relationships are developmental when they help young people discover who they are, nurture abilities to shape their own lives, and learn how to engage with and contribute to the world around them. 

During this session, you will learn:
  • How to identify and define a developmental relationship.
  • The difference between connection and a relationship.
  • How developmental assets relate to developmental relationships.
  • What the research says about developmental relationships.
  • The elements and actions of a developmental relationship.
 
CAC Cooks!: December 17, 1 – 1:45 pm
For anyone looking for healthier meal options.
  • Presented by David Zack, Café Gratitude line cook and CAC garden volunteer.
  • Offered as a Facebook Event. Check out our Facebook page – Community Assistance Council.
David will share delicious ways to prepare those Holiday leftovers.
 
The Effects of Rewarding Good Behavior: December 18, 1 – 2 pm
  • For anyone interested in learning effective skills for rewarding and motivating children
  • Presented by Tonika Benson, Community Education Manager, Child Abuse Prevention Association.
  • Register HERE to receive a ZOOM for video or phone call link for the session
Children, like adults, enjoy attention. Children tend to continue a behavior that secures attention. Behavior that does not arouse a reaction or that is ignored is likely to fall by the wayside. The key to raising kids who learn positive behavior is consistent with a parent’s reactions to their choices. Children who don’t receive positive reinforcement will act out in order to get some kind of attention. Parents should be proactive and engaging, demonstrating and rewarding the behaviors they want their children to learn.


Virtual Wellness by Phone at Home 
The First Hand Foundation and CAC are partnering to offer the Foundation's free, at home, by phone virtual wellness classes to CAC friends. Participants do not have to meet income or geographic guidelines. Follow these steps to get connected to Fitness Instructors.
  • Dial 816 384-1534
  • Enter Conference ID: 822 269 208 or 520 472 345 (evening Yoga)
  • Enter the # (sign) after the Conference ID
  • Download the PDF flyer HERE.
 
Yoga: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays - 1 pm
Start a Yoga practice at home! All ages are welcome, come as you are and work at your own pace and level. That could be in a chair or on the floor. Our Instructors will guide you through the 50-minute practice.
 
Nutrition Hacks and Stretch & Strength: Tuesdays and Thursdays - 1 pm
Deepen your knowledge of all things nutrition with 5 minutes of Nutrition Hacks. These tips and tricks will help you live a more nutritionist life! Stretch & Strength class follows at 1:05 pm. This class combines the best of both worlds.
 
Evening Yoga: Mondays and Thursdays - 6 pm
End your day centered and relaxed with an evening Yoga class. Note this class has a different Conference ID (520 472 345).
​

On demand sessions to watch at your convenience
Mindfulness: presented by CAC Volunteer Jim McGraw
While the negative impact of stress on health is well known, daily relaxation practices can decrease muscle tension, high blood pressure, anxiety, etc.  In this video, participants will learn and practice a simple technique to help activate your parasympathetic nervous system,  called the "relaxation response"  by Harvard physician Dr. Herbert Benson. The video also includes practical  tips to take calming diaphragmatic breaths throughout the day for a more relaxed mind/body. Link to video HERE.
 
Autogenic Muscle Relaxation: presented by CAC Volunteer Jim McGraw
Autogenic Muscle Relaxation (AMR) is a self-relaxation method used since the 1930's, sometimes with biofeedback. This short video session provides an overview of AMR, and a guided narrative where listeners intentionally relax by repeating phrases such as "my hands are heavy and warm". The regular practice of this simple technique can lead to muscle relaxation, dilation of blood vessels in the extremities, and an overall sense of calm. Link HERE.
 
Trauma Informed Care: Video produced by Truman Medical Center’s Center for Trauma Informed Innovation. 
Trauma-informed care includes practices that promote safety, empowerment, and healing for children and adults. This video helps participants understand the connection between symptoms and behaviors and an individual’s trauma history. Link HERE.
Community Assistance Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization. Donations are tax-deductible. Tax ID # 23-7439079.
​In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political beliefs, or disability.  To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights,  1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 ( TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Find Information