life skills Classes
At COM, we believe that life is a continual journey of learning. No matter who you are, we all have areas where we can grow. Every week, we offer a different class to our partners to learn new skills and tricks for saving money, increasing financial stability, and improving overall wellness. Even better, those who successfully complete classes can earn bonus points for use in the food pantry. Check out this month's classes below and sign up here!
You may only sign up for a max of 2 classes per month so that we have enough class spaces for everyone to attend a class.
ONLINE CLASSES
Pantry shoppers can earn 30 bonus points for shopping in the food pantry by taking the "Parenting Wisely" online course through Community Connections. This course is designed for improving your parenting skills with either teens or young children. Parents can sign up for this online course for FREE through one of the following locations.
OACAC, 417-326-7250
or
Carol Bookhout, Polk Co. Health Center, 417-326-6276
Course participants will receive a certificate upon completion and can present this certificate to Project Thrive staff at COM to earn an additional 30 shopping points.
Class Rules
JANUARY CLASSES
SAVE MONEY WHILE DRIVING
Thurs, Jan 26, 8am
Sat, Jan 28, 8 am
Tue, Jan 31, 4 pm
A car is an important tool for daily living, but it can also be expensive. Learn tips to easily save money based on your driving habits.

FEBRUARY CLASSES
INTRO TO SEWING
Tue, Feb 2nd, 8AM
Throwing away clothes after finding a hole or tear is expensive. Learn how to sew and repair clothing to extend the life of your clothes.

HEALTHY CHANGES FOR A HEALTHY LIFE
Tue, Feb 7th, 4PM
Thurs, Feb 9th, 8AM
Learn how to take small steps that can help create healthy habits that can benefit your health long-term.

BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS
Tues, Feb 21st, 4PM
Thurs, Feb 23rd, 8AM
Computer skills are helpful in the digital world we live in. Learn how to operate a computer and the benefits of using Google.

BUYING A CAR 101
Sat, Feb 4th, 8AM
Sat, Feb 25th, 8AM
Tue, Feb 28th, 4PM
Buying a car can be overwhelming and expensive. Learn the steps on how to research, negotiate, finance, and buy a car.

BUDGETING AND SPENDING LEAKS
Sat, Feb 11th, 8AM
Tue, Feb 14th, 4PM
Thurs, Feb 16th, 8AM
Sat, Feb 18th 8AM
The key to any financial stability starts with spending within your limits. A budget can help you not only make ends meet, but save money for wants as well. Learn how.

Additionally, you can check out these short online courses to learn additional tips and tricks: