We’ve developed a great list of events and activities at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center Healthy Community Center (1600 E. Long St.). Please check back often to see what’s new or sign up for our newsletter to get center updates and a regular listing of upcoming events and activities. Everyone is welcome to participate and attend.
How to register for an event or class
Please register before the event or first class in a series. In some cases, we can add you as a late entry if space allows, but it's best to secure your spot ahead of time.
If you're unable to register online, please call or stop by the center in person to sign up.
Wellness Wednesdays
Join us to explore the vital role your kidneys play in overall wellness and how to protect them for a healthier future. This engaging session will feature expert insights, interactive activities and practical tips on kidney health, hydration, nutrition and disease prevention.
Whether you want to better understand kidney function, manage risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes, or simply adopt healthier habits, this event will provide valuable knowledge and resources.
Don't miss this opportunity to take charge of your health and show your kidneys some love!
This engaging and interactive session will explore the essential role of blood in overall health, from circulation and oxygenation to disease prevention.
Through expert insights and hands-on activities, you'll learn about common blood-related conditions, the impact of lifestyle choices, and practical strategies to support heart health, improve circulation, and maintain balanced blood function. Whether you're looking to boost energy, prevent disease, or simply enhance your well-being, this session will provide valuable tools to keep your blood —and your body — flowing strong.
This informative and interactive session will provide valuable insights for embracing the aging process with vitality, purpose, and confidence. Expert speakers will share practical tips on maintaining physical, mental, and emotional health as we grow older. Learn about the importance of exercise, nutrition, social connections, and mindfulness, and discover ways to enhance your overall wellbeing.
Whether you're looking to age gracefully or support a loved one on their journey, this event is designed to empower you to live your best life at every stage. Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the keys to aging successfully!
Special events
The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center Community Care Coach is a state-of-the-art health unit on wheels that looks just like a doctor’s office inside so we can bring our expert health care team to you. Services include primary care, prenatal and women’s health, physicals, health screenings, immunizations and lab services. All patients are accepted regardless of ability to pay. We accept Medicaid, Medicare and all major insurances.
To schedule your appointment, call 614-293-CARE
This workshop series, tailored for the Columbus, Ohio climate, promotes health, wellness, and sustainability through gardening and farm-to-table practices. Utilizing raised garden bed at the Healthy Community Center, participants will engage in hands-on activities and learn techniques suited to the region’s growing season.
Seed Starting
Wednesday, March 12 from 6 – 7 p.m. in the Community Room and Garden
During this workshop, we will introduce gardening in the Columbus climate and explore starting seeds through a hands-on activity.
Community Garden Kick-off: Spring Planting
Wednesday, April 9 from 6 – 8 p.m. in the Garden
In this class, we will learn about spring vegetables and start work in our very own raised beds!
Moms2B is a weekly prenatal education program in partnership with the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. You will have the chance to learn how to have a healthy baby and pregnancy, talk with healthcare professionals, and make new friends. Walk-Ins are welcome.
Call Moms2B at 614-292-1605 for more information.
Senior Classes
Program presented by the African American Alzheimer’s & Wellness Association, Kim Wilson-Lawson, Executive Director
Did you know that certain foods and products can contribute to many health issues we are challenged with? Poisons in your pantry is an interactive presentation that reveals the most toxic foods and household products while empowering you with healthy alternatives. Join us to learn which products to avoid and how to choose the best food and household alternatives for better health.
Cooking Classes
Join Chef Jo for Italian cooking classes with a Diabetes-friendly twist. We often hear that we can’t eat pasta if we have Diabetes, but we’re here to prove that myth wrong. Chef Jo will show us how we can still enjoy Italian cuisine while staying within our dietary guidelines.
Diabetes and Italian? But isn’t it all carbs?
Monday, March 17 from 5:30 – 7 p.m.
From artisan breads to fresh pasta, carbs always seems to play center role in Italian cuisine. In this cooking demonstration, we’ll explore how eating with Diabetes merges with the true secret of Italian cuisine: its simplicity. We’ll bring together simple ingredients and techniques to create a lovely Italian meal.
Menu: Piadini with pickled vegetables, pesto chicken and Brussels slaw.
Risotto: The Italian fancy “Fridge Surprise”
Monday, April 28 from 5:30 – 7 p.m.
In this cooking demonstration, we’ll tackle many home chefs’ greatest fear: how to use up those random veggies in your fridge before they go bad. We’ll show you how easy it is to make risotto and give you a simple template for making a well-balanced version of this Italian classic.
Menu: Vegetable and parmesan risotto.
In this four-part series from the American Heart Association, we’ll explore staple foods that are commonly used in cuisines around the world. In each class, we will demonstrate and sample heart-healthy ways to prepare these favorite food staples. Attend one class or all four!
Rice & Bean recipes from around the world
Friday, January 10 from 12 – 1 p.m.
Featured recipe: North African Gumbo
Corn recipes from around the world
Friday, January 17 from 12 – 1 p.m.
Featured recipe: Mexican street vendor corn and bean salad
Potato recipes from around the world
Friday, January 24 from 12 – 1 p.m.
Featured recipe: Mulligatawny soup from India
Chicken recipes from around the world
Friday, January 31 from 12 – 1 p.m.
Featured recipe: Szechuan chicken stir-fry
JD Flournoy is the Executive Chef at Alfie’s Granville, a prominent social media influencer and resident here on the Near East Side.
The art of hosting a tea party
Monday, March 24 from 5:30 – 7 p.m.
Whether you're the ultimate host or just treating yourself to a little luxury, this hands-on class will teach you how to throw a tea party to remember! Together we will prepare mini tea sandwiches, a dessert, and a tea selection. You'll learn all the essentials of a classic tea service – plus tips to make it uniquely your own. Get ready to sip, savor and impress!
Knife skills
Monday, April 7 from 5 – 7 p.m.
Sharpen your culinary confidence in this hands-on class designed for cooks of all levels. Learn the fundamentals of knife safety and practice cutting and chopping techniques to make cooking at home more efficient and enjoyable. NOTE: This class is limited to adults 18 and over.
Lunch & Learn demonstration: Matcha making
Monday, April 14 from 12 – 1 p.m.
Discover the vibrant world of matcha through the lenses of culinary arts, Japanese tradition, and nutrition. We’ll explore the rich history and health benefits of this beloved green tea while tasting several matcha-inspired recipes. Bring your curiosity and your taste buds as we dive into the wonders of this superfood!
Mix it up: Creative meal prep
Monday, May 5 from 5:30 – 7 p.m.
Do you get bored with your meal prepping routine? Tired of eating leftovers? Time to mix it up! In this hands-on class, we’ll explore creative strategies to add variety to your meal plans while staying on track with your health goals. You’ll leave with fresh ideas to keep mealtime enjoyable and delicious!
Join Chef Laura and nutrition experts for weekly cooking demonstrations focused on how to reduce our risk of diet-related disease through healthier eating habits and lifestyle choices.Heart healthy cooking to lower cholesterol
Thursday, February 27 from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Featured recipe: Shakshuka
Healthy eating with the DASH Diet
Thursday, March 27 from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Are you concerned about hypertension and high blood pressure? Learn how to incorporate heart-healthy foods into your meals with the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) Diet.
Cooking for food allergies: Meals everyone can enjoy
Thursday, April 3 from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
It can be challenging to know what to eat and what to cook if you or your loved ones have food sensitivities. In this class, we’ll discuss the eight most common food allergies, how to read food labels for allergens, and share a simple allergen-free meal that everyone can enjoy.
Rise & dine: Start your day with a healthy breakfast
Thursday, April 10 from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Learn the many benefits of starting your day with a delicious, nutritious breakfast. We’ll share recipes and ideas for quick, grab-and-go options and heartier breakfasts to fit any schedule.
Debunking myths about soy and how to cook tofu
Thursday, April 17 from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
In this class, we’ll separate fact from fiction and explore the nutritional benefits of soy. You’ll learn how to cook tofu so you can incorporate soy protein into a plant-forward diet.
Single servings: Cooking for one
Thursday, April 24 from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Learn some simple recipes and strategies to cook small portion, healthy meals at home without tons of leftovers.
Smart shopping: Healthy eating on a budget
Thursday, May 1 from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Eating healthy doesn’t have to break the bank! We’ll share tips & tricks for smart grocery shopping to help stretch your food dollars farther.
Stocking the pantry with staples
Thursday, May 8 from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
In this class, we’ll explore how to mix and match staple ingredients for creative and healthy budget-friendly meals.
Join Chef Michael Carnahan and Registered Dietitian Cameron Stauffer for an exciting cooking demonstration celebrating National Nutrition Month! This event will focus on connecting people and food. We will experiment with new recipes, enjoy a meal with our community, and deepen your connection with food and those around you. Enhance your culinary skills and build meaningful connections through the joy of cooking!
Menu: Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing and Build-Your-Own Tacos
Fitness Classes
Line dancing with the Pickett Sisters
March 10 – May 5 from 6 – 7 p.m. in rooms 120 and 140Join our vibrant R&B line dancing community! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, we’ve got something for you. Our classes are set to soulful R&B, hip-hop, oldies and pop music, creating a fun and energetic atmosphere.
Strong, active and fit with Mary Curry
March 11 – May 6 from 9:15 – 10 a.m. in room 155This program offers a blend of mobility, strength, stamina, and flexibility exercises, motivating seniors to embrace a healthier lifestyle for improved quality of life. This class meets Tues./Thurs.
Balance with Andi Sie (Tai Chi)
March 11 – May 6 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in room 155
Join Andi Sie for a transformative Tai Chi class designed to enhance your inner strength, balance, flexibility and overall well-being. Andi is a certified 13th- generation Tai Chi disciple with over 20 years of training under Master Chen Bing, a direct descendant of the family that founded Tai Chi. Suitable for all levels, this class offers options to practice seated or standing. Each session builds on the previous and meets Tues./Thurs.
Music and Movement with Nancy Beasley and Jessica Blackburn
March 11 – May 6 from 5 – 6 p.m. in room 155
This class is designed to make exercise enjoyable and accessible for adults of all ages through movement and music. Participants will engage in gentle stretching, energizing warm-ups and guided group dance routines that cater to beginners. The focus is on creating a fun and welcoming environment that encourages physical activity while fostering community connections. Modified seated versions will be available for those with mobility challenges to ensure that everyone can participate and enjoy the benefits of movement.
Pilates sculpt with Jasmine Jones
March 11 – May 6 from 6 – 7 p.m. in room 155
Get ready to feel fabulous in our contemporary mat Pilates class! This is your chance to warm up both body and spirit while flowing through energizing moves. Bring a towel - things might get a little toasty! No need to sign up, just come as you are. Mats and water are encouraged. We can't wait to see you there!
Battle Ready Boot Camp
March 12 – May 7 from 6 – 7 p.m. in room 155 (no class March 26 and April 30)
Get ready to push your limits and build strength, endurance and resilience! This high-energy, full-body workout is designed to challenge all fitness levels with a mix of cardio, strength training, agility drills and functional movements. Led by motivating instructors, each session will help you improve stamina, power, and mental toughness while fostering a team-oriented atmosphere. Whether you're looking to elevate your fitness routine or kickstart a new challenge, this boot camp will leave you feeling strong, empowered, and battle-ready!
Strong, active and fit with Mary Curry
March 13 – May 8 from 9:15 – 10 a.m. in room 155This program offers a blend of mobility, strength, stamina, and flexibility exercises, motivating seniors to embrace a healthier lifestyle for improved quality of life. This class meets Tues./Thurs.
Pilates Sculpt with Jasmine Jones
March 13 – May 8 from 10:15 – 11:15 a.m. in room 155Get ready to feel fabulous in our contemporary mat Pilates class! Warm up both body and spirit while flowing through energizing moves. Bring a towel – things might get a little toasty! No need to sign up, just come as you are. Mats and water encouraged. We can't wait to see you there!
Balance with Andi Sie (Tai Chi)
March 13 – May 8 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in room 155
Join Andi Sie for a transformative Tai Chi class designed to enhance your inner strength, balance, flexibility and overall well-being. Andi is a certified 13th- generation Tai Chi disciple with over 20 years of training under Master Chen Bing, a direct descendant of the family that founded Tai Chi. Suitable for all levels, this class offers options to practice seated or standing. Each session builds on the previous to build over the sessions. Class meets Tues./Thurs.
Universal Balance Yoga with Malik Willoughby
March 13 – May 8 from 6 – 7 p.m. in room 155Beginner to intermediate Vinyasa yoga class, where movement meets mindfulness. Through a series of flowing sequences and held postures, you'll cultivate strength, flexibility and balance. Affirmations and shavasana sound bath will seal in the practice, empowering you to embody confidence, compassion and clarity. Leave feeling revitalized, renewed and radiant.