Welcome to LIFT Community Learning Center Catalog of Classes for our session beginning February 1!

LIFT is a new initiative in Elmhurst designed to bring people together through learning, creativity, and meaningful shared experiences, housed at Bethel UCC. We offer classes, workshops, conversations, and gatherings that help people learn something new, connect with others, and experience the power of community. Join the LIFT mailing list.

While LIFT is housed at Bethel United Church of Christ, it is not a religious program. LIFT is open to anyone in Elmhurst and surrounding communities who is curious, creative, and interested in meaningful connection.

Browse the course catalog below to explore classes, workshops, and events. Click any class to register—each listing will take you to a dedicated sign-up page with secure credit card payment (when applicable) and a confirmation email.

Our core winter session runs February 1–March 14, 2026, with a few additional events offered in January and May. Classes meet in person at Bethel UCC (315 E. St. Charles Rd. Elmhurst) unless otherwise noted as online. We offer a mix of free and low-cost options. Questions? Contact Jenny Riddle at jenny@jennyriddle.com.

Come be part of something bigger!

LEARNING | INSPIRATION | FELLOWSHIP | TRANSFORMATION

🎵 MUSIC AND THE ARTS

Live music, masterclasses, art-making, writing, and performance experiences

One-Off Workshops and Events

Pre-Concert Guide: Copland’s Appalachian Spring

A short, engaging introduction to the music before the Elmhurst Symphony’s afternoon performance. York High School Band Director Will Ernst shares the story behind the piece and what to listen for—ideal for both new and seasoned concertgoers.

Sunday, Jan 18 • 1–2 PM • Free

➜ Register here

Acting and Improv for Middle Schoolers

A high-energy workshop where students (grades 6–8) build confidence, creativity, and quick-thinking skills through scene work, improv, and performance games—led by a professional actor and director with decades of teaching experience

Sunday, Feb 1 • 1–2:30 PM • $15

➜ Register here

Weekly and Recurring Classes

Ukulele Circle (6 weeks)

Learn the basics of ukulele—chords, strumming patterns, and familiar tunes—while discovering how to play together as a group. Includes techniques used in popular songs and simple approaches to performing them. All levels welcome.

Tuesdays, Feb 3–Mar 10 • 6:30–7:30 PM

Cost: $125 (includes ukulele) or $65 (bring your own)

➜ Register here

Art From the Unexpected: Painting Bones and Roadside Finds (Online)

Join artist Meg Lyman for a uniquely fascinating oil-painting mini-series inspired by her work with found bones and natural forms. In this three-session online class, you’ll watch a painting unfold from start to finish, learn approachable oil techniques, and explore how artists transform unusual materials into expressive works of art.

Participants are welcome to paint along with basic supplies, sketch, or simply observe and ask questions. Each session blends quiet creative time, gentle instruction, and conversations about process, inspiration, and the beauty hidden in unexpected places. No experience needed—just curiosity.

Mondays, Feb 2, 16, Mar 2 • 6–7 PM • $20 (includes all 3 sessions)

➜ Register here

The Shape of Your Story: Writing Your Memoir

A welcoming, practical workshop for anyone who’s ever thought, “I should really write that down.” Explore the building blocks of memoir—structure, voice, focus, and the “why” behind your story—through short lessons, guided practice, and supportive group discussion.

Led by Caryn Rivadeneira, an award-winning author of more than 25 books and a longtime editor with decades of experience helping writers shape meaningful stories.

Wednesdays, Feb 4, 11, 25 • 6:30–7:30 PM • $30 (includes all 3 sessions)

➜ Register here

Music Master Class Series

Whether you’re a singer or simply someone who loves seeing how great performers bring music to life, this series offers a rare chance to learn from five acclaimed Chicago artists. Each week features a different teacher exploring a unique dimension of vocal performance—cabaret, jazz, drag artistry, musical storytelling, and neuro-vocal training. Open to all levels; auditors welcome. Participants are encouraged (but not required) to bring a song to work on; several volunteers will receive live coaching each week. Special student pricing available. Contact jenny@jennyriddle.com.

Cost: $25 per session or $100 for all five

Register for individual master classes using the session links below, or use the series registration link below to sign up for all five and save.

What’s Missing from Your Vocal Toolkit? — David Edelfelt

Chicago cabaret artist and master voice teacher David Edelfelt leads an open, wide-ranging master class designed to meet singers exactly where they are. Topics may include navigating high notes, vocal confidence, expressive storytelling, vocal health, audition preparation, or shaping a cabaret or concert set.

David will perform, demonstrate techniques, and coach volunteer singers live, offering practical tools and musical insight that benefit the entire room. A welcoming session for singers of all experience levels—and for anyone who enjoys watching great teaching and performance up close.

Wed, Feb 4 • 7–8:30 PM • Cost: $25

➜ Register for David Edelfelt

Making Love Lyrics Really Sing — Elizabeth Doyle

In this Valentine-season master class, acclaimed singer-pianist-composer Elizabeth Doyle explores how to bring love lyrics to life with honesty, specificity, and emotional clarity. Elizabeth will guide the group through lyric mapping—examining breath, phrasing, emphasis, and intention—before working with volunteer singers on their chosen songs. She will also perform and demonstrate the difference between simply singing the notes and truly communicating through song.

Participants may bring sheet music or typed lyrics; auditors are encouraged to attend and learn through listening, observation, and performance.

Wed, Feb 11 • 7–8:30 PM • Cost: $25

➜ Register for Elizabeth Doyle

The Art of Drag: Voice, Presence, and Performance — Nathan Rago

Chicago drag performer Nathan Rago (Tater Tot) invites participants into the world of drag as a musical and theatrical art form.

Through live performance, conversation, and demonstration, Nathan explores how drag artists use voice, character, movement, and style to create bold, expressive stage personas. Volunteers will have the opportunity to try things out onstage—experimenting with presence, performance choices, or runway walks—while others are welcome to observe, ask questions, and enjoy the show.

A lively, welcoming evening for anyone curious about drag, performance, and self-expression.

Wed, Feb 25 • 7–8:30 PM • Cost: $25

➜ Register for Nathan Rago

Vocal Jazz Technique: A Conversational Art Form — Alyssa Allgood

Award-winning jazz vocalist Alyssa Allgood explores jazz singing as a deeply conversational musical style.

Participants will learn and practice elements such as vocal tone, relaxed diction, swing articulation, and phrasing. Alyssa will teach a jazz standard to the group, perform selections herself, and work with volunteer singers to apply the techniques in real time. Auditors welcome.

Sheet music and listening references may be shared in advance. A rich session for singers and jazz lovers alike.

Wed, Mar 4 • 7–8:30 PM • Cost: $25

➜ Register for Alyssa Allgood

Vocal PLAYground: Breakthroughs for Every Voice — Hilary Feldman

This interactive master class introduces singers to NeuroVocal training—using curiosity, sensation, and play to unlock new vocal abilities and break old patterns.

Hilary will perform, demonstrate tools, and guide volunteer singers through playful, science-informed exercises addressing challenges such as tension, breath issues, register shifts, belting, or vocal consistency. There will also be moments when the whole group participates together.

Ideal for singers at any level—and for anyone curious about how voice and brain work together when singing feels free and easeful.

Wed, Mar 11 • 7–8:30 PM • Cost: $25

➜ Register for Hilary Feldman

Series Registration (ALL FIVE MASTER CLASSES) • Cost: $100

➜ Register HERE for the FULL SERIES and save

Listen and Learn Series

The Listen and Learn Series invites you to experience music in a more intimate, engaging way. Each evening blends live performance with storytelling and conversation, offering audiences a deeper appreciation for the artists, the music, and the journeys behind it.

Attend one session or several. Click the "Register here" links following each event to sign up for individual evenings, or choose the full series option below to attend all six at a discounted rate. Special student pricing available for these sessions. Contact jenny@jennyriddle.com.

Cost: $20 per session or $100 for all six

Listen and Learn with Uli Widmaier: Bach—Why His Music Endures

Think Bach is intimidating or not really “for you”? This Listen and Learn evening might change that.

Through short, accessible musical excerpts and conversation, violist Uli Widmaier invites listeners into Bach’s music in a relaxed, welcoming way. We’ll explore how Bach created such depth and beauty from simple ideas—and why musicians and listeners across centuries keep returning to his work for clarity, focus, and inspiration.

This is not a lecture or a theory class. It’s an intimate, music-centered experience designed to help you listen differently and discover why Bach still matters today. No musical background required.

Thursday, Feb 5 • 7:00–8:30 PM • Cost: $20

➜ Register here

Listen and Learn with Jenny Riddle and Jeffrey Panko: Mozart’s Women

What was Mozart really like—and how did the women in his life shape the man and the music?

In this dramatic musical-literary program, storyteller Jenny Riddle, performing in character as Constanze Mozart, brings to life the fascinating story of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart through the voices of the women who knew him best, inspired by Mozart’s Women by Jane Glover.

Classical pianist Jeffrey Panko performs beloved selections of Mozart’s piano music throughout the evening, weaving live performance with story and reflection to reveal a more intimate portrait of the composer.

Thursday, Feb 12 • 7:00–8:30 PM • Cost: $20

➜ Register here

Listen and Learn with Gayle Bisesi: Fitzgerald, Lee, Vaughan, and Wilson

What makes a jazz singer unforgettable?

Acclaimed jazz vocalist Gayle Bisesi explores the artistry of four iconic voices—Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Sarah Vaughan, and Nancy Wilson—through live performance, storytelling, and conversation. As she performs selections from these legendary singers, Gayle shares what sets each voice apart and how these artists shaped the sound and storytelling of jazz.

A warm, engaging evening for longtime jazz lovers and curious newcomers alike.

Thursday, Feb 19 • 7:00–8:30 PM • Cost: $20

➜ Register here

Listen and Learn with Don Stiernberg and Steve Rashid: A Lifetime of Friendship and Music

Internationally renowned jazz mandolinist Don Stiernberg and Emmy and Jeff Award–winning composer and producer Steve Rashid first met in college, formed a band, and have been crossing musical paths ever since. Over the decades, they’ve collaborated on countless projects, including nearly all of Don’s solo recordings.

In this intimate evening, they share music, stories, and reflections from a lifetime of friendship and collaboration—offering a behind-the-scenes look at jazz, creativity, and what it means to make music together over time.

Thursday, Feb 26 • 7:00–8:30 PM • Cost: $20

➜ Register here

Listen and Learn with Jim Fine: Folk Songs and Stories

Acoustic troubadour Jim Fine blends folk wit with a touch of dusty twang, offering authentic interpretations of folk, country, and well-loved classics. With a smooth baritone voice and graceful guitar work, Jim brings songs to life in a way that feels both familiar and deeply personal.

Through music and storytelling drawn from decades of performing, Jim explores how folk songs carry history, humor, and heart—connecting generations through shared experience.

Thursday, Mar 5 • 7:00–8:30 PM • Cost: $20

➜ Register here

Listen and Learn with Julie Peterson: Broadway Belter

Elmhurst native Julie Peterson shares songs, stories, and reflections from her life as a musical theater performer.

Through live performance and conversation, Julie traces her journey from early experiences with Elmhurst Children’s Theater and York High School to professional work on national tours and regional theaters. Along the way, she reflects on finding your voice, building confidence, handling rejection, and sustaining a life in musical theater.

A celebratory and inspiring close to the Listen and Learn series.

Thursday, Mar 12 • 7:00–8:30 PM • Cost: $20

➜ Register here

Series registration (INCLUDES ALL SIX LISTEN AND LEARN SESSIONS) • Cost: $100

➜ Register for full series here (all six)

Youth and Community Performances

Friday Night Jazz Jam (Youth Instrumentalists)

A low-pressure improvisation circle for middle and high school students led by York High School Band Director Mike Pavlik. Listeners welcome.

Fridays (monthly), starting January • 6:30–7:30 PM • Free

➜ TBA

York High School Jazz Concert

Enjoy an evening of exceptional student musicianship and improvisation.

Tuesday, Feb 10 • 7:30 PM • Welcome Center at Bethel UCC

York High School Jazz Concert (Spring Performance)

A second showcase of York’s talented jazz ensembles.

Tuesday, Apr 14 • 7:30 PM • Welcome Center at Bethel UCC

🏠 FOOD, HOME, AND EVERYDAY LIVING

Hands-on classes focused on nourishment, hospitality, and caring for the spaces we live in

Great Weeknight Dinners for Single Dads (Online)

A practical, fast-paced cooking class with accomplished home chef John Cloud, focused on simple, budget-friendly meals single dads can make with—or for—their kids. Low stress, high impact.

Monday, Feb 2 • 5:30–7:00 PM (Online) • $15

➜ Register here

Valentine’s Day Baking with Bob: Chocolate Edition

Learn to make chocolate éclairs, flourless chocolate cake, and (time permitting) a seasonal tart—perfect for celebrating love and friendship.

Saturday, Feb 14 • 10 AM–12 PM • $20

➜ Register here

The Spaces We Inhabit

A thoughtful, interactive workshop on gathering with intention, styling walls and shelves with purpose, and creating warm, welcoming homes—including reflections on multigenerational living.

Saturday, Feb 21 • 1–2:30 PM • Free

➜ Register here

Handyman Pete’s Home Maintenance 101

Learn essential home maintenance tasks that keep a home running smoothly, with hands-on demonstrations of common DIY skills.

Sunday, Mar 1 • 1–2 PM • Free

➜ Register here

🌱 PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL GROWTH

Practical skills for confidence, communication, and navigating work and life

How Do You Get a Job? Tools for Sourcing and Interviewing

A practical, discussion-based class on navigating today’s job market. Learn how to find opportunities, prepare for behavioral interviews, and show up with confidence and professionalism.

Led by John Lampa, former General Manager of the Westin River North Hotel and a 35-year career with Marriott International, where he hired, coached, and led teams across multiple organizations.

Tuesdays, Feb 3–Mar 10 • 7:00–8:00 PM (6 weeks) • $30 (includes all six weeks)

➜ Register here

Producer Power Hour: Mixing Basics for Music and Podcasts (Online)

Ever wonder how your favorite songs, podcasts, or audiobooks are made? Over six sessions, this hands-on class puts you in the producer’s chair and introduces the fundamentals of mixing digital audio. Participants will learn core concepts including digital audio workstation (DAW) basics, signal flow, EQ, compression, creative effects like reverb and delay, and how arrangement choices shape the final sound. You’ll apply these ideas through guided, hands-on work with a short multitrack music project and a spoken-word recording.

Led by Mike Kubik, a lifelong musician and audio producer who writes, performs, and mixes music and spoken-word projects.

The series concludes with a live, in-person showcase where participants share and discuss their mixes in a supportive group setting.

Open to anyone curious about music or podcast production—no prior experience required.

This class will be held online. Registered participants will receive any technical setup notes by email prior to the first session.

Important note: To experience full stereo sound, participants should join from a desktop or laptop computer using the meeting platform’s full application rather than a mobile device or browser, if possible.

Thursdays Feb 5-March 12 • 5:30–6:30 PM (6 weeks, online) • $30 (includes all six weeks)

➜ Register here

✨ SPIRITUALITY AND INNER LIFE

Opportunities for reflection, meaning-making, and personal exploration

Modern Spirituality Circle

A reflective, discussion-based gathering exploring meaning, purpose, and lived spirituality through shared stories, insights, and a variety of thought-provoking sources. Each session invites curiosity, conversation, and connection.

Wednesdays, Jan 28, Mar 18, Apr 15, May 13 • 6:30–8:00 PM • $20 (includes all 4 sessions)

➜ Register here

Meditation Monday (Online)

A calming, 30-minute guided meditation to end your day with grounding, clarity, and peace. No experience needed.

Third Monday of each month • 7:00–7:30 PM (Online) • Free

➜ Register here

Faith and History: What The Da Vinci Code Got Wrong

A lively, accessible look at the history behind Dan Brown’s bestselling novel. Explore what’s fact, what’s fiction, and why it still fascinates, with time for discussion.

Sunday, Feb 1 • 11:30 AM–12:30 PM • Free

➜ Register here

Faith and History: Women in the Early Church

An engaging overview of women’s roles and leadership in early Christianity, drawing from Scripture, early writings, and archaeology. Accessible, informative, and ideal for curious learners.

Sunday, Feb 8 • 11:30 AM–12:30 PM • Free

➜ Register here

🌍 COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL IMPACT

Conversations and workshops that help us engage thoughtfully with the world around us

Pride Workshop: Beyond the Rainbow

In partnership with the Elmhurst Pride Collective, this welcoming workshop offers an introduction to LGBTQ+ terminology, identities, and authentic allyship, with practical ways to stand with and support LGBTQ+ people.

Sunday, Feb 8 • 1:00–2:00 PM • Free

➜ Register here

Founding and Operating a Nonprofit Organization

Thinking about starting a nonprofit—or already involved in one and looking to strengthen how it operates?

In this practical, discussion-based session, Shannan Connell, Founder and CEO of the Invisible Wounds Foundation, and Bob Fealy, a longtime nonprofit board member, share real-world insights into what it takes to launch and sustain a charitable organization. Topics include nonprofit legal structures, filing requirements, fundraising, finances, communications, and managing boards and volunteers.

Whether you’re working in the nonprofit sector, serving on a board, or exploring an idea you care deeply about, this session offers clarity, perspective, and grounded guidance from people who have done the work.

Wednesday, Feb 18 • 6:30–8:00 PM • Free

➜ Register here

Immigration Forum Welcoming the Stranger

A community conversation led by Exodus World Service, exploring current realities, common myths, and personal stories around immigration, with space for listening, learning, and respectful dialogue.

Sunday, Feb 22 • 1:00–2:30 PM • Free

➜ Register here

How to Be an Ally to People Who Are Neurodivergent

A warm, practical session on understanding and supporting people whose brains process the world differently, including ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and more. Learn everyday ways to communicate, collaborate, and create more supportive, inclusive spaces.

Saturday, Mar 7 • 1:00–2:30 PM • Free

➜ Register here

Community Storytelling Night (Moth-Style Event)

Join us for a night where stories are told the old-fashioned way: out loud, from memory, with nothing between the teller and the listener.

Hosted by Kim Scott, this evening features 5–6 storytellers sharing true, personal tales around one connecting thread. 90 minutes of humor, heart, and the kinds of stories that make you lean forward in your seat. The theme gets announced closer to the date—but trust us, it’ll be good.

Never been to one of these? You’re in for something special.

Friday, March 13 • 7:00–8:30 PM • $10

➜ Register here

💃 MOVEMENT, PLAY, AND JOY

Experiences that bring people together through movement, laughter, and shared fun

Splatter Studio (Kids + Parents)

A joyful, hands-on art workshop for kids and their grownups led by Elizabeth Higgins, Executive Director of Bethel Learning Center. Big, bold, messy projects designed to spark creativity, play, and connection.

Saturdays • 1:00–3:00 PM

Dates: Jan 24 | Feb 21 | Mar 21 | Apr 18

All materials included.

How registration works:

Each Splatter Studio session is standalone. When you register, you’ll select how many sessions you plan to attend and pay accordingly.

After you register, you’ll receive a follow-up email asking you to let us know which specific dates you’ll be attending.

Cost:

• $25 per parent/child pair, per session
• $15 for each additional child, per session

You’ll choose the number of sessions at checkout.

➜ Register here

Free Taste of Square Dancing

Curious about square dancing? Try it out in this fun, low-pressure introduction led by caller Bobby Poyner. Expect simple steps, great music, and lots of laughter—no experience or partner needed. This free session previews the six-week Square Dancing for Beginners class beginning February 7.

Saturday, Jan 24 • 10:00 AM–12:00 PM • Free

➜ Register here

Square Dancing for Beginners (6 weeks)

Learn the basics of square dancing in a fun, high-energy group class led by caller Bobby Poyner. A great way to move, laugh, and meet people—no partner or experience needed.

Saturdays, Feb 7–Mar 14 • 10:00 AM–12:00 PM • $50 per person (includes all six-weeks)

➜ Register here

Have questions?

We’re happy to help. If you have questions about classes, registration, or whether something is a good fit for you, contact LIFT Director Jenny Riddle at jenny@jennyriddle.com.