Healthy Community Center Classes and Events

Step into an immersive sound experience designed to relax your body, calm your mind and restore your energy. This one-time Sound Bath will guide you through soothing vibrations from singing bowls, chimes and other therapeutic instruments that encourage deep rest and inner balance. Whether you’re looking to release stress, reset your nervous system or simply enjoy something new, this session offers a powerful pause from the noise of everyday life.

Come curious – leave grounded, refreshed and recharged.

In partnership with OSU Extension, join us for hands-on, interactive gardening classes to learn how to create your own home gardens and grow healthy plants. This session is taught primarily by Eugene Law, PhD, from The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences. There will be engaging conversation and take-home equipment to create your own green space.

Garden Kickoff

June 16, from 6 -7 p.m. in the Healthy Community Center garden

Join us as we break ground in the Healthy Community Center garden to learn about transplanting crops, taking care of summer plants and how pollinators can help jump-start your own garden.

Pest Management

July 7, from 6-7 p.m. in the Healthy Community Center garden

Learn how to protect your garden from vermin and how to identify friends or foes in your beds. Weeding and pest management are very important to keep your garden happy and healthy.

At Outpatient Care East, 543 Taylor Ave.

This annual event hosted by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center at Outpatient Care East includes free health screenings, giveaways, health information, free food and fun for the whole family. Just show up! No need to register in advance. No insurance needed. Appointments for screenings close at 11 a.m.

Learn more

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 health care professionals and make new friends. No registration needed. Walk-ins are welcome, and you may bring young children with you. Call Moms2B at 614-292-1605 for more information.

The Healthy Community Center’s 2025 inaugural “Battle of the Bowls” event, sponsored by Genentech, delivered an unforgettable mix of flavor, teamwork and wellness education as community members gathered for a high energy “Top Chef”-style cooking challenge.

With its lively atmosphere and spirited competition, Battle of the Bowls was an instant fan favorite, so we’re bringing it back again this summer! This year’s challenge: Eat the Rainbow - Build a healthy bowl that features colorful fruits and vegetables (phytochemicals) to prevent chronic diseases.

Join us

Assemble your team of four contestants and register together as a group.

• All ingredients and supplies will be provided.
• Prizes will be awarded to the winners.
• You’ll also get a chance to vote for the People’s Choice Award!
• We’ll have seats in the audience for those who’d prefer to watch and cheer on the culinary competitors.

The Longevity Paradox: Thriving vs. Surviving

Tuesday, June 16, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. in room 140

Presented by Brandon Boyd, certified senior advisor and certified dementia practitioner with Senior Care Authority

Explore what it truly means to live well in the later stages of life – not just longer, but better. This session addresses the often-overlooked impact of social isolation, sometimes called “the silent killer,” and offers practical ways to rebuild connection and create a modern-day village. Participants will also discover how volunteerism and purpose-driven work can bring renewed meaning in the third act of life, along with simple nutrition and movement strategies that support longevity without feeling overwhelming or burdensome.

Fall Prevention Class

Tuesday, July 14, from 10:30 a.m.-noon in room 140

Presented by Ann Smith, PhD, RN, injury prevention program manager for Trauma Central Ohio, ThinkFirst Chapter, and director of Ohio State’s Division of Trauma, Critical Care and Burn

Learn about simple changes to your routines that could help reduce your risk of falling. Simple home modifications, proper hydration and nutrition, proper footwear, lighting and side effects of common medications will be discussed.

What’s Stealing Your Rest? Sleep Awareness

Wednesday, May 27, from 6-8 p.m. in rooms 120 and 140

Join us for an interactive sleep awareness experience focused on uncovering what may be disrupting your rest. Explore a realistic “sleep scene” to identify common habits and environmental factors that interfere with sleep, then learn simple ways to improve your sleep environment.
The program also features Sound the Alarm, a focused look at sleep apnea – helping participants recognize warning signs, understand its impact on health and know when to seek care. Walk away with practical strategies to support better sleep and breathing for overall well-being. Featured speakers:

• Maninder Kalra, MD, director of Nationwide Children’s Pediatric Sleep Disorder Center
• Mattina Davenport, PhD, principal investigator of the Sleep Empowers Lab at the Center for Child Health Equity and Outcomes Research – The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital; assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine
• Lawrence Chan, DO, clinical assistant professor for the Ohio State Internal Medicine Division of Pulmonology, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine

Moments That Matter: Alzheimer’s and Brain Health Awareness

Wednesday, June 24, from 6-8 p.m. in rooms 120 and 140

Join us for an interactive Alzheimer’s and brain awareness experience designed to educate, engage and empower our community. This event blends hands-on activities, guided conversations and practical takeaways to help participants better understand brain health, Alzheimer’s disease and the difference between normal aging and concerning cognitive changes.

Through interactive stations and accessible learning experiences, attendees will explore how lifestyle factors such as movement, mental stimulation, stress management, sleep and social connection support lifelong brain health. Whether you’re looking to reduce your risk, support a loved one or simply learn more about protecting your brain, this event offers knowledge you can use – now and in the future. All are welcome. Come curious, leave informed and feel empowered to take steps toward a healthier brain.

Building Stability: Smart Housing, Smart Insurance: Presented by Eatmon Insurance Group

Wednesday, July 15, from 6-8 p.m.

Building a stable financial future starts at home. During this community-focused event, Eatmon Insurance Group will lead a conversation on the role of insurance in housing security and financial wellness. This workshop will cover essential topics such as understanding policies, mitigating risk and making informed insurance decisions. Designed for renters, homeowners and families alike, this event empowers participants with knowledge to safeguard what matters most.

Knife Skills 101

Monday, June 15, from 5-7 p.m.

Build your confidence in the kitchen by honing foundational knife skills.
In this hands-on class, Chef J.D. will take us step-by-step through knife safety and
cutting techniques, so you’ll feel safer and more efficient cooking at home.

Note: This class is for adults 18 and over.

Healthy Summer Drinks (demonstration class)

Saturday, June 27, from 11 a.m.-noon

Would you like to treat yourself to something refreshing during the crushing summer heat without feeling guilty? Skip the pops, milkshakes and cocktails and choose one of these healthy alternatives instead.

Menu: Iced matcha, iced cacao, Agua de Jamaica.

Budget-Friendly Meals

Monday, July 13, from 5-7 p.m.

With rising costs in today’s economy, it’s more important than ever to ensure you’re able to provide affordable, nutritious meals for your family without forgoing other financial necessities. In this hands-on cooking class, we’ll explore flavorful, healthy meals that won’t break the bank!

Menu: Egg and avocado toast, chicken-fried rice.

We all have a sweet tooth, but we feel guilty about indulging in dessert because it’s supposed to be bad for our health. But what about “healthy” desserts – don’t they taste terrible? In this cooking demonstration, we’ll discuss how dietitians think about dessert and how it can fit into an overall balanced diet.

Menu: Cranberry lemon oat bars.

Cooking for Energy: Meals That Fuel Your Day

Monday, June 8, from 5-7 p.m.

In this hands-on cooking class, we’ll prepare meals that support sustained energy, stable blood sugar and overall wellness. Participants will learn how to combine protein, fiber and healthy fats to build satisfying meals that avoid mid-day fatigue.

Menu: Turkey and vegetable lettuce wraps, quinoa power salad with seasonal vegetables, homemade vinaigrette.

Better Barbecue: Backyard Favorites, Lightened Up

Monday, June 22, from 5-6:30 p.m.

Enjoy classic barbecue flavors lightened up with healthier cooking techniques. In this cooking demonstration, Chef Treyvon will cover marinades, dry rubs, grilling temperatures and lighter sides that complement summer cookouts without sacrificing flavor. Participants will come away with practical tips they can use at home – perfect for summer celebrations!

Menu: Spice-rubbed grilled chicken, vinegar slaw, grilled peaches with yogurt and honey.

Summer Harvest: Seasonal Cooking Made Simple

Monday, July 6, from 5-7 p.m.

Celebrate the bounty of summer by learning to cook with seasonal produce. In this hands-on cooking class, we’ll practice knife skills and cooking techniques to let fresh ingredients shine without complicated recipes. You’ll gain confidence selecting and preparing farm market-fresh vegetables.

Menu: Herb-marinated chicken, roasted summer vegetable medley, fresh tomato and basil salad.

May 27, June 3, June 10, June 17, June 24 and July 8 (no class on July 1)

This free, hands-on cooking course is designed to support individuals managing diabetes. Participants will explore how nutrition impacts blood sugar control while building practical kitchen skills – from knife techniques to food safety. Each session includes the preparation of two or three diabetes-friendly, budget-conscious recipes, and you’ll receive groceries and recipes each week to recreate the meals at home.

Participant expectations:

• Complete brief pre- and post-class evaluations
• Provide a current A1c lab result (dated within two weeks of the first class) or agree to have A1c checked at both the first and final class sessions
• Commit to attending all six sessions

Join us to discover how food can truly be medicine. In this hands-on cooking class, community members and physicians come together for a fun, flavorful journey toward better health. Whether you’re looking to manage a chronic condition, learn new recipes or simply enjoy cooking in a supportive environment, this is the perfect opportunity to enhance your skills and explore food as medicine.

What’s on the menu:

• Learn practical cooking and nutrition tips
• Cook side-by-side with health care professionals in a fun, relaxed setting
• Enjoy a delicious, healthy meal together

Join certified diabetes educator and registered dietitian Jenny Shrodes and chef Mike Carnahan of The James Mobile Education Kitchen for a lunchtime diabetes-friendly cooking demonstration.

Fad diets come and go, but nutrition isn’t a trend. Practicing healthy eating patterns on a consistent basis will help you sustain your health long-term. Each week, we’ll explore evidence-based nutrition recommendations to give you the skills and information you need to eat well and live a healthy lifestyle.

The Diet Cycle: Why Most Diets Fail

Thursday, May 28, from noon-1 p.m.

In this class, we’ll explore the latest fad diets and why they’re not sustainable for all people. We'll discuss both the psychological impact and physiological effects of dieting. Finally, we’ll discuss what we should prioritize, including practical tips for losing weight if weight loss is a goal.

Whole Foods for Whole Health

Thursday, June 4, from noon-1 p.m.

Ultra-processed foods have contributed to worse health outcomes over the last few decades. In this class, we’ll get back to basics with a focus on the health benefits of eating minimally processed and whole foods, particularly fruits and vegetables.

Whole Grain Goodness

Thursday, June 11, from noon-1 p.m.

Learn how fiber-rich whole grains can boost your health, including how they support digestion, heart health, long-lasting energy and even weight loss! We’ll explore how to identify whole grains in the store and share easy cooking techniques to incorporate whole grains into your meals.

Powering Up With Plants: Plant-Based Meals and Proteins

Thursday, June 18, from noon-1 p.m.

Discover how plant-powered meals can support heart health, boost fiber intake and add variety to your everyday cooking. In this class, we’ll explore how easy it is to substitute plant-based proteins for meat and turn them into flavorful, nourishing dishes.

Understanding Fats, Oils and Cholesterol

Thursday, June 25, from noon-1 p.m.

Curious about which fats and oils are best for cooking and for your health? In this cooking demonstration, you’ll learn the difference between healthy fats and not-so good-for-you fats, how various oils perform in cooking¬ and recommendations for managing dietary cholesterol.

Sweet Talk: A Guide to Sugars and Alternative Substitutes

Thursday, July 9, from noon-1 p.m.

Dive into the science of sweetness as we explore how sugars and artificial sweeteners affect metabolism, blood sugar and overall health. We’ll share practical strategies for reducing added sugars without sacrificing flavor.

Putting It All Together: Healthy Eating With the DASH Diet

Thursday, July 16, from noon-1 p.m.

Learn how to bring the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) Diet to life in your kitchen with delicious, low-sodium, nutrient-dense meals. We’ll explore the principles behind the DASH approach – emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and low-sodium cooking techniques – to support heart health and overall wellness.

Line Dancing With the Pickett Sisters

Mondays, June 1-July 20, from 6-7 p.m. (no class June 29)

This class will be held at the African American Extension Center, 905 Mount Vernon Ave. Join the rhythm! Experience high energy R&B line dancing set to soulful classics, hip hop and pop hits. All levels are welcome. Come dance, connect and have fun.

Strength Made Simple With Neale Davis

Mondays, June 8-July 20, from 5-5:45 p.m. in room 155 (no class June 29)

A beginner friendly strength class using dumbbells, kettle-bells and bands to help you build muscle, improve mobility and get stronger at your own pace.

Battle-Ready Boot Camp With Neale Davis

Mondays, June 8-July 20, from 6-6:45 p.m. in room 155 (no class June 29)

Unleash your inner warrior in this high-intensity boot camp combining explosive cardio, strength training and functional movement. Each session builds endurance, resilience and mental toughness – no matter your starting point. Show up, dig deep and leave stronger and more confident.

Strong, Active and Fit With Mary Curry

Tuesdays, June 2-July 21, from 9:15-10:15 a.m. in rooms 120 and 140 (no class June 30)

Stay active and energized in this chair-focused fitness class that welcomes all mobility levels. Build strength, flexibility and confidence with low impact, accessible movement. Meets twice a week: Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Balance With Andi Sie – Tai Chi

Tuesdays, June 2-July 21, from 9:15-10:15 a.m. in room 155 (no class June 30)

Join Andi Sie for an authentic tai chi class focused on balance, flexibility and well being. A certified 13th generation tai chi disciple with over 20 years of training, Andi guides all levels with seated or standing options in a progressive, restorative series.

Hot Pilates Inferno With Jasmine Jones

Tuesdays, June 2-July 21, from 6-7 p.m. in room 155 (no class June 30)

Get ready to turn up the heat in this 60-minutes class, where you feel the burn and break a sweat. Bring a towel and get ready to sculpt and strengthen your body in a whole new way. Join us for Hot Pilates Inferno and feel the burn!

Line Dancing With the Pickett Sisters

Wednesdays, June 3-July 22, from 6-7 p.m. in rooms 120 and 140 (no class June 24, July 1 and July 15)

Join the rhythm! Experience high energy R&B line dancing set to soulful classics, hip hop and pop hits. All levels welcome. Come dance, connect and have fun.

Strong, Active and Fit With Mary Curry

Thursdays, June 4-July 23, from 9:15-10:15 a.m. in rooms 120 and 140 (no class July 2)

Stay active and energized in this chair-focused fitness class that welcomes all mobility levels. Build strength, flexibility and confidence with low impact, accessible movement. Meets twice a week: Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Balance With Andi Sie – Tai Chi

Thursdays, June 4-July 23, 11 a.m.-noon in room 155 (no class July 2)

Join Andi Sie for an authentic tai chi class focused on balance, flexibility and well being. A certified 13th generation tai chi disciple with over 20 years of training, Andi guides all levels with seated or standing options in a progressive, restorative series.

Yogalates – Flow and Core With Jasmine Jones

Thursdays, June 4-July 23, from 10:30-11:15 a.m. in rooms 120 and 140 (no class July 2)

This class invites you to breathe, move and soften. We’ll blend the mindful strength of Pilates with the fluid movement of yoga, helping you stretch, tone and connect – without pressure or judgment. You’ll leave feeling strong, supported and more rooted in your body. All levels welcome. Come move with love.

Body Sculpt With Coach D

Thursdays, June 4-July 23, from 6-6:45 p.m. in room 155 (no class July 2)

Move, sweat and feel stronger in this high-energy, full-body workout designed for all fitness levels. This class combines cardio intervals, strength training and dynamic movement to help tone the body, build lean muscle and boost metabolism – without adding bulk. Modifications are offered, so everyone can work at their own pace. Led by master trainer Demetrius “D,” an ISSA-certified trainer with 14 years of experience and a former Big Ten athlete, this class offers motivating instruction, energizing music and a supportive environment to help you reach your fitness goals.

Joy Slow Flow – Yoga With Cortland Mullins

Saturdays, June 6-July 25, from 10:15-11 a.m. in room 155

A gentle, slow moving yoga practice that emphasizes breath, relaxation and ease. Joy Slow Flow helps you unwind, restore balance and reconnect with your body – perfect for all levels.