Adulting has become a popular term that means “the practice of behaving in a way characteristic of a responsible adult,” according to the Oxford Living dictionary.
That can include holding down a job, finding a new job, paying a mortgage or taking care of children.
To help make the hard work of being an adult a little easier the team at Anythink Perl Mack is offering the Take Control series of classes through October.
“This series is really about empowering people to make their lives better,” said Kaelin Alexander, adult and technology guide for Anythink. “Librarians have historically helped people, whether it was finding resources or tools. Sometimes it’s a book that helps; sometimes it’s classes like these.”
Classes are geared toward helping adults take control by learning new skills that can make life more productive, profitable and pleasurable, beginning with the Oct. 4 Get Active, Stay Active class. Starting or maintaining a fitness routine can often be pushed back in a long list of priorities, and this class will teach how to set goals and devise a workout plan.
Workout clothing is recommended, as there will be activities to help jump start any workout routine.
For young adults — or older adults who haven’t mastered the skill of cooking — the Conquer the Kitchen class on Oct. 11 offers simple cooking techniques that save time, money and provide simple, wholesome recipes.
Whether you’re just starting life as an adult, or looking to go back to college to start a new career or augment your education, the Apply to College class Oct. 18 will provide valuable information about how to apply for college and how to find ways to pay for it.
Representatives from the Front Range Community College will speak about pathways to the classroom and resources, including scholarships and financial aid, that will help any adult in their quest for a higher education.
Tony Smith, certified career coach and director of the Experiential Learning Center at CU Denver, will address the issue of changing careers during the Oct. 25 class. The class lays out concrete steps for finding a satisfying new path and taking proactive steps towards it.
“We are always trying to provide people in our communities with opportunities to get a taste of the resources that are out there,” said Annette Martinez, Anythink Perl Mack manager. “This subject matter can help them take control of areas of their lives they may not feel like they have control over.”
Anythink Perl Mack also offers other adult classes and services throughout October, including a job search drop-in, a film and book club and classes on how to use new technology and computer basics. All classes are free, and schedules can be found at www.anythinklibraries.org.
