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Here in New York, there is no shortage of opportunities for seniors looking for ways to spend their time. But so many of those opportunities come at steep, inaccessible fees. Council Lifetime Learning is different.
Council Lifetime Learning (also known as CLL) engages older adults through a variety of interesting and stimulating classes, mostly focusing on arts and culture. Seniors can take art classes (like Watercolor and Collage), exercise classes (like Pilates and Chair Yoga), and performing arts classes (like Vocal Training and Musical Theater).
They can also participate in discussion groups (like Short Stories and Meditation) and attend lectures and concerts. CLL participants pay a reasonable, one-time yearly membership fee, and all classes are offered at low or no additional cost. But this affordability does not come at the cost of quality. Every CLL class is led by a professional instructor who curates a first-rate experience for all participants. All seniors from all backgrounds and walks of life are welcome at CLL, and cost is never a barrier to participation. Scholarships and financial assistance are available for those who may need it.
“I found the Short Story class after volunteering, and there were the most intriguingly intelligent people in the class – it was equivalent to any graduate school literature classes that I ever attended.”
– Arlene K.
These days, when so much of life has moved online, and experts warn of an ongoing loneliness epidemic, CLL offers seniors the chance to be part of a joyful, in-person community at the Council House community center on the Upper West Side – either in one of their multipurpose rooms for discussion and exercise, large art studio or weaving room, or first floor café. And, when a senior signs up for a CLL class, they immediately have access to the CLL social work team who are there to support them when the inevitable challenges of aging arise. The team provides resources, referrals, to help seniors to continue to thrive at home and live independently for as long as possible.
“What appealed to me is how welcoming and non-intimidating the people were. I’ve always felt very comfortable here, but also challenged.”
– Audrey M.
“Council Lifetime Learning (CLL) is more than a place to take a class; it’s a community where older adults can be creative, stay connected, learn new skills, and thrive together. We believe high-quality programming should be both enriching and accessible to older adults from all backgrounds, and that cost should never be a barrier to lifelong learning.”
– Okwuchi Tracey Onyeuche, Director of Community Programs
Ready to start exploring all that CLL has to offer? The CLL Spring Semester beings April 6! You can also observe and sample classes at the upcoming Open House, running all week from March 23 through March 27, 2026. You can find out more and pre-register to attend here: https://ncjwny.org/event/2026springopenhouse/.
You can also register for classes today at https://ncjwny.org/programs/healthy. Use code WestSideRag15 for 15% off your membership fee (membership valid through June 30, 2027).
Any questions? You can reach out to Debbie Aronson, NCJW NY’s Program Coordinator at debbie@ncjwny.org or 212-687-5030 ext. 0.
Council Lifetime Learning is a program of National Council of Jewish Women New York (NCJW NY).
