Co-Facilitators: Karen Christensen and Donna Sue Blankenship

Poverty and homelessness are complex issues. In this course we will explore the root causes of poverty, how it has changed over the last several decades and current trends. We will also examine the effect that economic impact, housing shortages and food insecurity have on individuals, families and society. This course encourages compassionate understanding and critical thinking as we raise awareness of these hardships and discuss how individuals and communities can come together to make a real difference.

REQUIRED BOOK: $2.00 A Day: Living on Almost Nothing in America * ISBN 978-0-544-81195-9 by Kathryn J. Edin and H. Luke Shaefer 

This introductory class on transgender experiences and issues covers basic topics across three classes of an hour each, with plenty of time for discussion and interaction. The course is written and presented by trans folks, and covers gender experiences and how we talk about them these days, how being gay relates to being trans, gender nonconforming and non-binary experiences, they/them pronouns and neopronouns, and how to help trans people, both in one’s life and systemically. No prior knowledge necessary. Each class will build on prior discussion.

This course is a repeat of a previous course this semester.

Co-Orgainzer: Carolyn Hopkins

This exhibit at the Schingoethe Center Museum on the Aurora University Campus proposes a historical view of the iconic Pilsen neighborhood in Chicago through the account of print exhibitions and printmakers' activities along with the social and political conditions that brought in waves of migrants. It is a rare look back at a community over the last century, highlighting its mural achievements and the social and political struggles residents faced in building the neighborhood’s resilient social fabric.

Registration deadline 5/1/2026 Activity Level: easy going