Prescott Community Center

Explore Your Creative Self – Visual Journaling & Mindful Art Student-artists in grades 6–8 are invited to discover their unique voice through visual journaling, mindful art activities, and creative “self-portraits.” In this class, young artists will use sketchbooks—not just for practicing techniques—but as a way to express feelings and ideas visually. For example, students might be given an emotion like “joy” and will spend time filling a journal page with colors, patterns, and images that capture that feeling. We’ll also introduce calming mindfulness art exercises, such as neurographic drawing, where students create flowing, intersecting lines and transform them into colorful, intricate patterns. These activities help students relax, focus, and explore their inner creativity without the pressure of technical portrait drawing. Throughout the program, we’ll explore what it means to use visual art to express your inner self and create works that celebrate your unique individuality. By the end, students will curate their own mini art exhibit, showcasing their process and unique creations—a true celebration of self-expression. Student Art Show will be held on December 12, 2025. All materials are provided. We offer confidential Card to Culture scholarships to help make our programs accessible to everyone. For details, please call our office—we’re happy to assist you! Office: 978-877-6933 Andrea Wilson will serve as the Arts Elevate: Artist-in-Residence for Youth Wellness in Greater Lowell. This program is supported by the Greater Lowell Community Foundation (GLCF) in partnership with the Barr Foundation. Andrea Wilson will be part of The Umbrella’s 2025-2026 Artist-in-Residence cohort. The Greater Lowell Community Foundation (GLCF) is partnering with four youth-serving nonprofit organizations to pilot an artist-in-residence non-clinical program that is designed to improve youth wellness through creative engagement. The program is being developed with lead funding from the Barr Foundation through itsCreative Commonwealth Initiative. Disclaimer: Participants of this program may be asked to contribute responses to evaluation questions, participate in interviews about their experiences, and may be included in photo and video documentation. Participants can opt out by emailing registrar@prescottscc.org.

Come to meet and learn about the alpacas at the Harvard Alpaca Ranch! Harvard Alpaca Ranch is a working alpaca farm that currently maintains a herd of 39 alpacas. The tour will discuss how and why they raise these beautiful, peaceful animals and introduce you to the individual alpacas (yes, everyone has a name and a unique personality). You are welcome to ask questions during the tour and take photographs. At the end of the tour, you may shop at the Alpaca Shop, full of all types of beautiful alpaca products, including yarn, socks, hats, scarves, gloves, mittens, blankets, stuffed animals, and a variety of souvenirs from the Ranch. Harvard Alpacas Farm will donate 10% of gross sales that day back to support the Prescott Community Center. Rain Date: Sunday, Oct 26, 10:00-11:30 AM

Mental health is just as important as physical health, but it is often not discussed as openly or easily. Stigma has led many of us to keep these challenging issues in the dark, feeling embarrassed and unsure of where to turn. This program, led by two local representatives from NAMI (The National Alliance on Mental Illness) who are family members of a loved one with a mental health condition, is designed to shed light on the importance of mental health and where to turn for support for someone you care about or for yourself. In addition, two guest speakers will share their stories of recovery, a compelling and inspiring message of hope. Through this thoughtful and informative session, you’ll learn about: ● What mental health really means - and why it matters ● Common myths and misunderstandings ● The impact of stigma and how we can break it ● A holistic look at caring for mental health ● Real-life insights from two NAMI In Our Own Voice guest speakers, invited to share their personal recovery journeys ● Lists and specific websites providing both community and NAMI mental health resources for various situations, including families with teens or adult family members, individuals seeking to maintain their wellness, veterans, those involved in the criminal justice system, finding therapists, handling crises, housing, and health insurance, among others. This is a FREE program for all communities. This program is designed for anyone who wants to learn more or has concerns about a family member, friend, neighbor, or colleague. No one will be asked to share family or personal experiences

Mindfulness Pilates is an introductory course covering the essential level of Stott Pilates. The class will focus on learning the principles of Pilates, the mat work, and creating mind-body awareness. You can take Mindfulness Pilates as many times as you need to build strength, improve posture, and relieve stress. Props such as stretch bands may be used in class and are provided by the instructor. You may bring a thick towel or workout blanket for additional support. If you have an issue the instructor needs to be sensitive about (such as recent surgery, health conditions, etc.), please let Courtney know before class. Please consult your doctor before attending class if you have any health conditions. Please bring a mat, towel, water bottle, and stretch band (optional). Here is what they are saying about Courtney's Pilates Class: "Courtney is knowledgeable and very talented at teaching multiple levels at once. She is excellent at taking challenging things and making them approachable." "The instructor Courtney was awesome - she was able to differentiate for different fitness abilities and body types. I liked that it was a beginner Pilates class and she was really assuming we were all beginners as it was advertised. She was very patient and always played very calming music - also liked that the class was small - highly recommend!" "The instructor, Courtney, did a great job cueing and made the class fun."

This course is for new moms who want to rehab their bodies through intentional breath and movement, but can’t find the time with the busy schedule a newborn requires! Bring your baby (0-1) and learn some simple yet effective exercises you can do with your little one! All exercises will integrate our littles so they will be entertained and engaged while we are moving. This is a great course for moms who want to learn postnatal-specific exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor, reduce abdominal separation, strengthen the core, mobilize the hips, and strengthen the shoulders. You will leave this class feeling energized and ready to embrace life with a newborn! This is also a great opportunity to connect with other new moms in a friendly and supportive environment. Emma has been teaching yoga for 13 years, and pre- and postnatal yoga for 9 years. She has two kiddos aged 4 and 7 and loves helping moms feel confident in their bodies during this transformative stage into motherhood. Please bring a yoga mat, a towel or blanket to place the baby on, a water bottle, and wear something comfy and easy to move in. **This class takes place in an air conditioned studio.**

Join us for a stargazing party on a dark fall night! In the first hour of the event, the instructor will introduce the life of a star and the current visible constellations, giant red stars, planets, nebulae, and the Milky Way Galaxy! Then, assuming a clear sky, we will apply what we have learned in the General Field in Groton, MA. If clouds prevent viewing, we'll work with participants to schedule another viewing date. This program will start off at Prescott Community Center and then we'll all drive over to General Field for observing. The instructor will bring a set of telescopes to share with attendees. You are welcome to bring yours. Bring a jacket and warm layers as the temperature may be cooler at night in the fall. Reference material: 1. John Harrington, Back to the Future: HD 114762's Companion and the Early Search for Exoplanets, 17 The Antiquarian Astronomer 17: 51 (2023) 2. John Harrington, Shallow Sky: Imaging the Solar System and Beyond with the Masters (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2019)

We will be walking with unique Nordic poles on our beautiful local trails. This creative walking technique originated in Norway and is now very popular across Europe. It boosts your cardio walking, plus the benefit of providing an upper-body resistance-strength workout, now using 85 to 90% of all body muscles you activate. The special poles are adjustable, shorter than ski or trekking poles, and they are secured with tightly attached hand straps that allow you to propel yourself forward. The poles and hand straps are helpful for stability, so anyone can do this! The unique walking technique requires a small learning curve that I will spend the time teaching to everyone. At the beginning of the first class, we will do some basic training. After the first class and we’ll quickly refresh our previous classwork and add some new suggestions for good results! Below are the trails for each week where we will meet. Possible Locations: Hayes Woods, Shepley Hill (soapstone quarry), McLain's Woods, Blackman Field/Rocky Hill Wildlife, Wharton Plantation. Sep 9: Fitch's Bridge Ice Line Trail - Meet at Fitch’s Bridge Parking lot near Pepperell Rd Sep 16: J Harry Rich Oxbow Loop - Meet at off-street parking at the intersection of Nod Rd and Common St. Sep 23: Groton Town Forest - Meet at Town Forrest Road Parking Sep 30: J Harry Rich Eagle Loop - Meet at off-street parking at the intersection of Nod Rd and Common St. Oct 7: The Throne Hill - Meet at the end of Castle Drive Oct 14: Nashua Mines Fall Park - Meet at the Mines Fall Park Parking next to Stellos Stadium and David W. Deane Skateboard Park ** We strongly recommend registering for the first class to acquire the basic training together.** ** CLASS REQUIREMENT: You must purchase a set of Nordic Walking poles. I suggest poles that are adjustable for height as this is key for optimal setup. Some adjust in three parts and I don't recommend them. Just a simple adjustment in the middle is good. I bought mine on Amazon and did NOT spend top dollar on them! The brand I have is FIZAN, but any that you can find that suit your budget is fine. Our first class will require you to have them in hand so we can get adjusted and learn how to use them before a trail trip. Ski or trekking poles do not work for the resistance control that this requires. **All proceeds benefit Prescott Community Center.** Here is what they are saying about Nordic Walking: "I liked the small group and being active outdoors on unfamiliar trails." "The instructor was very helpful and patient in teaching the use of poles. Each walk was different and enjoyable."

In the classroom, we will create oil paintings from your favorite still life and landscape photos. We will explore composition, underpainting, perspectives, color mixing, color harmony, and paint application. The instructor will provide a demonstration at the beginning of every class and instruction throughout. This class emphasizes creativity, exploration, and experimentation rather than technique. While composition, color mixing, perspective, and mark-making will all be considered, learning technique is a by-product of the joyful creation of art. All participants will enjoy the freedom of experimenting with mixed media and surfaces and approaching the edge of abstraction in a friendly, supportive environment. This class is for all levels, including beginners. Student is required to bring materials. A list will be sent upon registration.

Join us at the Prescott Community Center for a dynamic opera education series centered around the Live from the Met in HD broadcasts. Before each broadcast, participants will receive background on the featured opera, its composer, story, and production elements to enhance the viewing experience. Following each screening, the group will gather for a guided reflection and discussion, providing space to share impressions, unpack themes, and deepen understanding. This welcoming, interactive series is a wonderful way to explore the richness of opera and connect with fellow enthusiasts. 2026 SESSIONS: Eugene Onegin Prelude - Wednesday, Apr 29, 7:00-8:00 PM Metropolitan Opera Live in HD - Saturday, May 2 Debrief - Wednesday, May 6, 7:00-8:00 PM El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego Prelude - Wednesday, May 27, 7:00-8:00 PM Metropolitan Opera Live in HD - Saturday, May 30 Debrief - Wednesday, Jun 3, 7:00-8:00 PM You can watch Metropolitan Opera performances through two primary ways: Met Opera on Demand (a streaming service) and The Met: Live at Home (for live cinema broadcasts). **All proceed benefit the Prescott Community Center.**

Join us for a dynamic opera education series centered around the Live from the Met in HD broadcasts. The program begins with an Opera 101 introduction class —perfect for newcomers and seasoned fans alike— offering an overview of opera as an art form, including its history, key terminology, and what to listen for in a performance. Before each broadcast, participants will receive background on the featured opera, its composer, story, and production elements to enhance the viewing experience. Following each screening, the group will gather for a guided reflection and discussion, providing space to share impressions, unpack themes, and deepen understanding. This welcoming, interactive series is a wonderful way to explore the richness of opera and connect with fellow enthusiasts. 2025 SESSIONS: Opera 101 Wednesday, Oct 15, 7:00-8:00 PM La Bohème Prelude - Wednesday, Nov 5, 7:00-8:00 PM Metropolitan Opera Live in HD - Saturday, Nov 8 Debrief - Wednesday, Nov 12, 7:00-9:00 PM Andrea Chénier Prelude - Wednesday, Dec 10, 7:00-8:00 PM Metropolitan Opera Live in HD - Saturday, Dec 13 Debrief - Wednesday, Dec 17, 7:00-8:00 PM 2026 SESSIONS: Click here to sign up for the 2026 sessions. Eugene Onegin Prelude - Wednesday, Apr 29, 7:00-8:00 PM Metropolitan Opera Live in HD - Saturday, May 2 Debrief - Wednesday, May 6, 7:00-8:00 PM El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego Prelude - Wednesday, May 27, 7:00-8:00 PM Metropolitan Opera Live in HD - Saturday, May 30 Debrief - Wednesday, Jun 3, 7:00-8:00 PM You can watch Metropolitan Opera performances through two primary ways: Met Opera on Demand (a streaming service) and The Met: Live at Home (for live cinema broadcasts). **All proceed benefit the Prescott Community Center.**

Join us for a fun and creative painting night at the Prescott Community Center, where you can sip wine, enjoy tasty snacks, and create a masterpiece! Whether you’re an experienced artist or just starting out, this relaxed event is the perfect way to unwind, express yourself, and connect with others. Come solo or bring friends—the atmosphere will be full of creativity, laughter, and great company. Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase to make your evening even more enjoyable. The instructor will prepare high-quality paint and canvases for the painting event. Participants do not need to bring materials, only curious and joyful minds. Workshop $30 | Material fee $15 Please note: Drinks and snacks are not included in the workshop fee but will be available for purchase during the event.

Step outside the studio and paint directly from the source. Working directly from the subject adds an urgency and liveliness that cannot be captured when painting from a photo. Through a combination of plein air and still life practice, we will learn to break down visual information, even as the subject or lighting changes. We will work quickly, developing a body of studies across the weeks together. Ultimately, you will develop the skillset you need to paint whenever and however you like. Though designed for beginners, intermediate and advanced students will also benefit from the emphasis on speed, clear decision-making, and acrylic medium usage. Students are required to bring materials. A material list will be sent in your class confirmation email. Here is what they are saying about Abigail's Class: "Everything! Great class and instructor. Learned about all aspects of art from color mixing to perspective." "Friendly, talented instructor."

In the classroom, we will create still life pastels from your favorite life and landscape photos. We will explore composition, underdrawing, perspective, color harmony, and pastel application onto different surfaces. The instructor will provide a demonstration at the beginning of every class and instruction throughout. This class emphasizes creativity, exploration, and experimentation rather than technique. While composition, color mixing, perspective, and mark-making will all be considered, learning technique is a by-product of the joyful creation of art. All participants will enjoy the freedom of experimenting with mixed media and surfaces and approaching the edge of abstraction in a friendly, supportive environment. This class is for all skill levels, including beginners. This medium is immediate! Student is required to bring materials. A list will be sent upon registration. Here is what they are saying about Heather's Beginner Pastel Class: "The instructor is talented and lovely."

In the rush of everyday life, it’s easy to lose touch with our own thoughts, emotions, and needs. Pause & Reflect is a 4-week guided journaling and story-sharing circle designed to help you reconnect with yourself in a gentle, supportive space. Each session offers thoughtful prompts, reflective writing, and optional sharing—all held within a restorative environment where you can slow down, feel heard, and connect with others on a similar path. You don’t need to be a “writer” to join—just come as you are, with a willingness to explore your inner voice. Whether you’re feeling burned out, in transition, or simply craving a moment to breathe and be present with yourself, this circle offers a pause you didn’t know you needed. You’ll walk away with: Less stress and more mental space A simple journaling practice to support clarity and reduce burnout A sense of community and connection through shared stories What to bring: A notebook, pen Light Refreshments will be served.

Learn how to take your everyday photos from ordinary to eye-catching using simple smartphone editing apps! In this class, you’ll explore techniques like cropping for impact, retouching, adjusting light and color, correcting white balance, and refining photographic style. You’ll also discover how to add filters, text, stickers, and other creative touches. Whether you want to enhance your photos for keepsakes or just have fun experimenting, you’ll walk away with the skills to make your pictures truly pop. Please bring your smartphone.

In this professional lesson, players with a skill rating of 3.5 (intermediate) will focus on improving consistency with deep serves and returns, developing soft-court skills like dinking, drop shots, and resets, improving court positioning by consistently getting to the kitchen line, and learning to play smarter by anticipating shots and setting up combo plays instead of just hitting for winners. Prerequisite: A pickleball 3.5 player is considered an advanced intermediate. This player has a solid understanding of the game's strategy and rules, can sustain medium-length rallies, hit consistent third-shot drops, and are learning to incorporate both hard and soft shots effectively. The instructor will review and contact the students for mismatched levels.

This volleys and dinks lesson will improve soft shot control at the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ) line, focusing on taking the ball out of the air, maintaining a soft paddle, and hitting consistent dinks. These drills help improve reaction time, precision, and the ability to keep the opponent on the defensive. Prerequisite: Learn to Play Pickleball and Pickleball 102. The player can maintain a 10-hit dinking rally. If you would like to take this class but do not meet the requirements, contact the registrar at registrar@prescottscc.org. The instructor will review and contact the students for mismatched levels.

Pilates with Props will use props such as the fitness circle, small balls, weights, and bands to intensify, support, and aid in muscle firing to build strength. The class is appropriate for all levels. You may bring a thick towel or workout blanket for additional support. If you have an issue the instructor needs to be sensitive about (such as recent surgery, health conditions, etc.), please let Courtney know before class. Please consult your doctor before attending class if you have any health conditions. Please bring a mat, towel, water bottle, and stretch band (optional).