Education

AARP SMART DRIVER COURSE is the nation’s first and largest classroom driver refresher course designed for drivers age 50 and older. Tests are not given. To find out when the next AARP Smart Driver Course is available, contact the Wood County Transportation Program or go online to aarp.org and click on Driver Safety.

Healthy Living with Diabetes is a workshop is designed to help adults with type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes learn self-management skills and increase their confidence in managing their diabetes. The workshop meets once a week for six weeks — 2-1/2 hours each session. Healthy Living with Diabetes does not replace existing treatments, but rather complements the treatments a participant receives.  People who have taken the workshop show: better health, health behavior and a sense of confidence in managing their diabetes, improvements in blood sugar levels, decrease in health distress and hypo- and hyperglycemia, fewer doctor and emergency room visits and fewer hospitalizations.

DESCRIPTION Living Well with Chronic Conditions workshops for people who have one or more chronic conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, pain, cancer, heart problems, or breathing problems. People with different chronic conditions, as well as caregivers can attend the program together. Topics include:*Techniques to deal with frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation*Appropriate exercise*Medication management*Communicating effectively with family, friends and health professionals*Nutrition*Making informed treatment decisions*Relaxation techniques

We provide free classes which provide information about Medicare parts A, B, C & D, Medicare Supplement policies, and other prescription drug coverage. Individuals are encouraged to attend a Medicare Basics class a couple months prior to their eligibility for Medicare. Classes are held regularly at our ADRC offices. Please call for information on specific dates and time and to register to attend one of our classes.

The Stepping On program offers older adults a way of reducing falls and increasing self-confidence in situations where they are at risk of falling. Issues covered include: *Falls and risk*Strength and balance exercise*Home hazards*Safe footwear*Vision and falls*Safety in public place*Community mobility*Coping after a fall, and *Understanding how to initiate a medical review

Provides education about HIV/AIDS to the public and serves people affected by HIV/AIDS. Offers Hepatitis C and HIV testing. Provides Lifepoint needle exchange.

NTC’s Alternative High School Services include a CREDIT SECTION PROGRAM and an HSED PROGRAM. The credit section of The Alternative High School offers students the opportunity to complete their high school education in an adult setting. The diploma received would be a regular high school diploma from the home high school. Program is offered mornings and afternoons at NTC’s Wausau Campus. Students must obtain and maintain employment to remain in the program. Local high school approval is necessary for admittance. Through its HSED High School Program, NTC offers the High School Equivalency Diploma at its Wausau Campus and at other campuses. Student’s local high school approval is necessary for enrollment.

The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.

The American Cancer Society Hope Lodge serves as a home away from home – free of charge – for adult cancer patients and their caregivers. Hope Lodge, a non-medical facility, offers a sense of community and comfort to patients who must travel to nearby medical facilities for lifesaving treatment. The lodge features 22 private guest rooms, laundry facilities, a library, fitness room, large community areas and kitchens for residents to store and prepare their meals. During the often long and emotional processes of treatment, guests of Hope Lodge receive support from professionals, families, friends, and other patients to help build the hope needed throughout their cancer journey.

The American Red Cross provides service to military families and offers assistance to victims of natural disasters as well as disasters involving home fires and home flooding. Education courses including first aid, CPR, swimming lessons, & babysitting.

Participants of AmeriCorps Team Marathon County will work for a year in local agencies and school to address the following problems: *Literacy (English as a Second Language and Tutoring) *Positive Youth Activities *Other Human Service Needs– Youth & Families *Disaster Preparedness/Relief/Response

Group formed by concerned parents and professionals to share information and resources to help children with Autism Spectrum Disorder reach their fullest potential. Conducts monthly meetings which coincide with the school calendar, as well as organized social activities. Also offers support to caregivers of those that fall into the Autism Spectrum Disorder category. Please call for more information.

Support group for those with chronic pain with Fibromyalgia/Myofascial Pain Syndrome or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Friends and loved ones also welcome. Lectures or discussions on various topics related to chronic pain conditions. Call for specific dates and times.

The Mission of the Central Wisconsin Literacy Council is helping area adults enhance their quality of life with English literacy skills. Our primary focus is helping adult learners reach their spoken and written English literacy goals in order to succeed in today’s jobs and employment training programs, manage their daily health care needs, manage their household and personal finances, and understand current events in their community and be responsible citizens.

Our mission is to help people find their role in the workplace. Our Employment Specialists work one-on-one to set goals and create an individual plan for employment for each participant. We provide paid training at a local non-profit or government agency while working to find outside employment. This service is available to people who are age 55 & up and who have low or no current income. We also provide job development and placement services to people of all ages with disabilities.

Provides learning opportunities at UWMC for adults age 50 or older. Membership of $69.00 includes free admission to one continuing education class of the student’s choice each year, and several reduced fee classes invitations to special events and use of UWMC facilities such as the library, cafeteria, and swimming pool during scheduled day and evening hours. Free admission to special faculty lectures.

Provides learning opportunities at UWMC for adults age 50 or older. Membership of $69.00 includes free admission to one continuing education class of the student’s choice each year, and several reduced fee classes invitations to special events; and use of UWMC facilities such as the library, cafeteria, and swimming pool during scheduled day and evening hours. Free admission to special faculty lectures.

NTC’s College Prep serves adults that need help with a variety of basic subjects such as math, reading, writing, and GED/HSED. Instruction is also available in financial literacy, computer basics, job skills and study skills. Instruction is provided to help students: *Increase their basic skills for program entrance *Prepare for GED/HSED testing *Prepare for employment or employment exams *Increase basic skills for self-improvement NTC’s College Prep Centers are open lab, self-paced environments. Students are assessed at enrollment and instruction is tailored to individual needs. Several classroom based options are available for basic math, reading and science.

Certified kidney educators will help you learn: how to create an action plan to manage your health, what causes kidney disease, diet resources and more. Register for a 90 minute class at kidneysmart.org/class or call the above number. Call for dates and times.

Public health programs are directed towards maximizing the quality of life across the lifespan. Programs include Health Promotion/Chronic Disease Prevention, Communicable Disease control and investigation, Family Health/Injury Prevention, Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Supplemental nutrition program, and Environmental Health.

Wisconsin Works (W-2) offers a wide range of employment, training and support services to help eligible Wisconsin residents secure and maintain employment. Individuals must have minor children to qualify and be working less than 29 hours/week. Participants complete up to 40 hours/week in assigned activities to get a monthly payment. Emergency Assistance can be provided by Forward Services. Assistance that can be provided includes: Rent assistance if minor child is living in the home (once/year), Assistance with WPS disconnects if child under 5 is living in the home or there is a condition requiring electricity for medical equipment, Homelessness assistance if there is a minor child in the home or impending 5 day eviction, Gas vouchers for those already enrolled in the W-2 program. Foodshare and Employment Training (FSET) require the individual to be receiving Foodshare and there is no monthly payment.

Langlade: 618 5th Ave, Antigo WI 54409

Lincoln: 607 N. Sales St, Merril WI 53530

Marathon: 364 Grand Av, Wausau WI 54403

Wood: 320 West Grand Av, Suite 102, Wisconsin Rapids WI 54494

A form of training not geared toward specific occupations. It provides basic and remedial education designed to help participants obtain GED or HSED credentials, learn English as a Second Language (ESL), or “brush-up” on reading, writing, and math skills. Learning takes place in an independent learning lab that students can start at any time. Computer Basics and Career Awareness classes are available as well. There are no fees associated with these classes.

A form of training not geared toward specific occupations. It provides basic and remedial education designed to help participants obtain GED or HSED credentials, learn English as a Second Language (ESL), or “brush-up” on reading, writing, and math skills. Learning takes place in an independent learning lab that students can start at any time. Computer Basics and Career Awareness classes are available as well. There are no fees associated with these classes.

Public Health Services. Provides services to keep adults and children healthy. Also services to protect the health of everyone in the community.

Services provided are as follow: Foot Care Clinic – *Merrill Clinic (715) 536-0307 *Tomahawk Clinic (715) 453-5757, Adult Vaccinations – (715) 536-0307 , Radon Testing – (715) 536-0307 , Water Testing – (715) 536-0307

Water Aerobics for Seniors, Monday, Wednesday & Friday 7 a.m. – 8 a.m. Call Marlene for more information.

The Literacy Council of Wood County (LCWC) strives to improve the quality of life for adults by enhancing their English literacy. We help adults 18 and older develop English literacy skills including basic budgeting, civics, computer use, math, reading, speaking, and writing. Our Resource Center is located in Wisconsin Rapids, and we’ll meet people anywhere in Wood County. The LCWC is a private, non-profit volunteer organization, which primarily serves residents of Wood County, and its immediate surrounding communities. We rely on volunteers which we train and equip with materials to help adults desiring to increase their literacy skills.

Public health promotion, disease prevention, health and safety regulation.

GED/HSED preparation, *Study *Practice Tests Courses in: Computer Basics: *Which include basic parts and function, how to create, format, save and print a word document *How to search the internet, create and use an email account and upload attachments Employability Class: *Resume and cover letter preparation *Career Assessment and exploration All classes are free. Students/adults can come in and practice their keyboarding skills: *Increase their skills in reading, writing and math *Study skills development *Improve academic skills for college entrance

MSTC offers…*Nearly 50 different degree programs in today’s most in-demand career fields *Career advancement and worker retraining *Entry-level education for recent high school graduates *Basic skills and literacy education (including HSED/GED) *Technical assistance to business and industry *Community Economic development *Personal enrichment opportunities *Disability Services Specialist at each location (call 715-422-5452)

MSTC offers… *Nearly 50 different degree programs in today’s most in-demand career fields *Career advancement and worker retraining *Entry-level education for recent high school graduates *Basic skills and literacy education (including HSED/GED) *Technical assistance to business and industry *Community Economic development *Personal enrichment opportunities *Disability Services Specialist at each location (call 715-422-5452)

Offers free diabetes/kidney health screenings in local community settings, free brochures on diabetes, high blood pressure, dialysis and transplantation. Provides free medical identification jewelry for anyone with diabetes, high blood pressure or kidney disease. Free educational programs on living kidney donation and transplantation. All services and programs are free. Accepts cars/trucks, buses and vans for recycling: www.kidneycars.org or toll-free: 1-800-488-2277. FREE TOWING. Vehicle does not need to be running.

Serves people with multiple sclerosis and their families, health care professionals and the general public. Services include financial assistance (for needs related to MS), educational materials, webinars and teleconferences, quarterly newsletter and magazine, advocacy, information and referral, and peer support (online, in person, by phone).

NORD is a nonprofit organization established in 1983 by rare disease patient organization leaders to represent all Americans affected by rare diseases. NORD provides programs of advocacy, education, research, and patient/family services. It works closely with approximately 200 member organizations representing people with specific rare diseases. NORD still administers medication assistance programs for people who cannot afford their medications or their co-pays.

NTC offers more than 190 associate degree, technical diploma and certificate options, as well as professional development and continuing education opportunities to help to keep pace with changing job expectations and licensing requirements. NTC offers a variety of flexible and online course offerings, as well as a Virtual College. Virtual College program classes begin weekly and can be completed on your schedule. Offers special services for Hmong, Latin, American Indian and minority populations interested in career programs. A Minority Counselor is on staff to assist with special student needs.

NTC’s College Prep serves adults that need help with a variety of basic subjects such as math, reading, writing, and GED/HSED. Instruction is also available in financial literacy, computer basics, job skills and study skills. Instruction is provided to help students: Increase their basic skills for program entrance, Prepare for GED/HSED testing, Prepare for employment or employment exams, Increase basic skills for self-improvement NTC’s College Prep Centers are open lab, self-paced environments. Students are assessed at enrollment and instruction is tailored to individual needs. Several classroom based options are available for basic math, reading and science.

Man to Man is a forum for men and their spouses to learn about diagnosis and treatment options for prostate cancer through presentations, written materials, and videos. This American Cancer Society’s Prostate Cancer Education and Support Program helps men and their families cope with and understand prostate cancer.

Provides a wide variety of materials in print, microfilm, digital, and electronic formats, including books (regular type and large print), newspapers, eBooks, magazines, and genealogical material. Language library. Collection also includes books on CD, music CDs, DVDs, and computer and video games. Trained staff are on duty to answer reference and information questions for walk-in, or telephone inquiries. Call individual branches for times when open: Antigo – 617 Clermont St (715) 623-3724, Elcho – Elcho School, N11268 State Hwy 45 (715) 275-3225 ext. 133, Elton – W4904 Hwy 64 East (715) 882-3881, White Lake – 615 School St (715) 882-1129

Provides a wide variety of materials in print, microfilm, and electronic formats, including books, newspapers, e-books, magazines, pamphlets, Wisconsin statutes, and genealogical material. Collection also includes books on CD, music, DVDs, and computer games. Provides computers for public use, including internet access, and wireless internet access. Trained staff is on duty to answer reference and information questions for walk-in or telephone inquiries. Free delivery services to homebound library users. Call individual libraries for days and times when open: T.B. Scott Free Library – 106 W 1st St, Merrill, WI 54452: (715) 536-7191, Tomahawk Public Library – 300 W Lincoln Ave, Tomahawk, WI 54487: (715) 453-2455

Provides a wide variety of materials in print, microfilm, and electronic formats, including books, newspapers, e-books, magazines, pamphlets, Wisconsin statutes, and genealogical material. Collection also includes books on CD, DVDs, and video games. Trained staff is on duty to answer reference and information questions for walk-in, or telephone inquiries. Call individual branches for days and times when open: Athens – 221 Caroline St (715) 257-7292, Edgar – 224 S 3rd Ave (715) 352-3155, Hatley – 435 Curtis Ave (715) 446-3537, Marathon City – 515 Washington St (715) 443-2775, Mosinee – 123 Main St (715) 693-2144, Rothschild – 211 N Grand Ave (715) 359-6208, Spencer – 105 S Park St (715) 659-3996, Stratford – 400 N 4th Ave (715) 687-4420

Provides a wide variety of materials in print, microfilm, and electronic formats, including books, newspapers, e-books, magazines, pamphlets, Wisconsin statutes, and genealogical material. Collection also includes books on CD, music videos, DVDs, and computer games. Trained staff is on duty to answer reference and information questions for walk-in, or telephone inquiries. Call individual libraries for days and times when open: Arpin – 8091 County E (715) 652-2273 Marshfield – 105 S Maple Ave (715) 387-8494 Nekoosa – 100 Park St (715) 886-7879 Pittsville – 5291 3rd Ave (715) 884-6500 Vesper – 6550 Virginia St (715) 569-4669 WI Rapids – 490 E Grand Ave (715) 423-1040

Monthly programs provided by RSVP. Programs each month that focus on different aspects of healthy, active living for older adults. Topics focus on informational and health related presentations such as Healthy Aging, Springtime Birding, Fraud & Identity Theft. Dates vary. Call for upcoming dates, times & topics.

Further educational opportunities including: *GED/HSED preparation *Keyboarding/typing skills training *Preparation for written portion of commercial and regular drivers licenses *Development or brush-up in reading, writing and math skills *Study skills development *Improvement of academic skills for college entrance *Career assessment and exploration *Résumé and cover letter preparation *Job hunting and job interviewing skills *Job search and job application assistance *Internet training and access to JobNet or other internet resources

Weekly classes provided by RSVP to help people learn and improve their technology skills. Free classes offered on Windows 10, IPad, IPhone, tablet, internet and email, identity theft and internet security and more. Classes held 9:30-11:00 am, at the United Way office. Call for upcoming classes and dates.

Provides knowledge and resources to engage people and their communities in positive change. Promotes lifelong learning. Helping communities become positive environments for family life. We teach, learn, lead, and serve, connecting people with the University of Wisconsin, and engaging with them in transforming lives and communities. We offer educational programs through four program areas: Agriculture and Natural Resources Community, Natural Resource and Economic Development Family Living and 4-H Youth Development.

Provides knowledge and resources to engage people and their communities in positive change. Promotes lifelong learning. Helping communities become positive environments for family life. We teach, learn, lead, and serve, connecting people with the University of Wisconsin, and engaging with them in transforming lives and communities. We offer educational programs through four program areas: Agriculture and Natural Resources Community, Natural Resource and Economic Development Family Living and 4-H Youth Development.

Provides knowledge and resources to engage people and their communities in positive change. Promotes lifelong learning. Helping communities become positive environments for family life. We teach, learn, lead, and serve, connecting people with the University of Wisconsin, and engaging with them in transforming lives and communities. We offer educational programs through four program areas: Agriculture and Natural Resources Community, Natural Resource and Economic Development Family Living and 4-H Youth Development.

Provides knowledge and resources to engage people and their communities in positive change. Promotes lifelong learning. Helping communities become positive environments for family life. We teach, learn, lead, and serve, connecting people with the University of Wisconsin, and engaging with them in transforming lives and communities. We offer educational programs through four program areas: Agriculture and Natural Resources; Community, Natural Resource and Economic Development; Family Living; and 4-H Youth Development.

An indoor walking area for people of all ages.

Statewide organization that offers problem gamblers and their family’s information about compulsive gambling and ways for them to seek help. Callers can be referred to counselors, Gamblers Anonymous or Gam Anon meetings closest to them. Informational pamphlets can be sent. No fees for services. Hotline available 24 hours. All information is confidential.

WI FACETS provides 5 core services to help parents and others support and enrich the lives of children with disabilities. Information & Referral: help with your questions about programs, services and resources related to special education. Support Groups: meet regularly in several communities throughout the state. Parent Leadership: We provide advanced training on leadership, parent engagement, school reform and emerging issues to parents. Help families in their communities with special education issues. Individual Assistance: a limited amount of free one-to-one support to parents and professionals by phone and in-person for school meetings. Youth Leadership Development: offer several programs for transition aged-youth and their families.

The WI Nutrition Education Program within the UW Extension provides information about foods, nutrition, and resource management, free of charge. Some of the things we teach are: *How to make low cost nutritious meals*How to keep food safe*How to balance the foods you eat with physical activity, ways to stretch food and food dollars and ideas for low cost meals. Programs are for limited income families and individuals of all ages.

Public health programs are directed towards maximizing the quality of life across the lifespan. Programs include Health Promotion/Chronic Disease Prevention, Communicable Disease control and investigation, Family Health/Injury Prevention, Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Supplemental nutrition program, and Environmental Health.

We are a powerful association of men, women and children joined together by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. At the Y, our focus on health and well-being helps children, adults and families find balance in life. That’s why we’re here with you every day to make sure you, your family and community have the resources and support to help you learn, grow and thrive.