Presented by PA CareerLink. Explore practical ways to leverage artificial intelligence for smarter, more efficient job searching.

This free workshop will be held Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 1:30p-2:30p at the Corry Higher Education Council. Registration is required by www.corryhied.org or by calling 814-664-9405.

"LGBTQ+ 101" is a basic training covering fundamentals of the LGBTQ+ experience. We look at current terms, definitions and vocabulary; explore the social context of discrimination and examine some of the physical and behavioral disparities experienced by the LGBTQ+ community. There’s an extended look at SOGIE (Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity & Expression) with an examination of the challenges and issues facing trans and non-binary people with a discussion of current best practices for working with that population. The program finishes with a look at what you and your organization can do to create a safe, welcoming environment.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

Workshop participants will learn the difference between sexual orientation and gender identity.

Participants will learn the context of discrimination in which the LGBTQ+ develop and the wide range of health disparities growing out of that.

Participants will learn the most current terms used by members of the transgender community.

Participants will learn strategies and best practices for working with the trans community.

Participants will learn some of the resources available to help them assist their LGBTQ+ clients.

Founded in 1972, Persad Center is the nation's second oldest behavioral health & wellness center working with the LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS community. As part of our mission to promote the well-being of our constituents, Persad Center works extensively on issues affecting the community: Homelessness, family rejection, bullying, at-risk behaviors, support groups, senior services, addiction counseling and transgender care and services.

Ted Hoover is an Educator/Trainer who has worked with PA Bureau of Family Health on such issues as LGBTQ+ youth suicide prevention, adolescent sexual health and creating safe work/education environments across the Commonwealth. Additionally, he focuses on issues of discrimination, hate crime and human trafficking with area law enforcement and the Civil Rights Division of the FBI.

The free training will be held on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, from 5p-7p at the Corry Higher Education Council. Preregistration is required by visiting www.corryhied.org or by calling 814-664-9405.

'Trail Towns: How Connecting Our Pathways Builds Stronger Rural Communities' explores how trails can transform rural communities by boosting local economies, improving quality of life, and creating stronger connections between neighborhoods and businesses. Participants will learn what makes a successful Trail Town, discover how connected pathways benefit residents and visitors alike, and take part in an interactive mapping activity to identify local opportunities and challenges. Whether you're a community member, outdoor enthusiast, or local leader, this presentation will inspire practical ideas for building a more connected and vibrant future.

This presentation will be held Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 5:30p-6:30p at the Corry Hi-Ed. The presentation is free to attend, but registration is required by visiting www.corryhied.org or by calling 814-664-9405.

This two-part introductory demonstration course provides participants with a foundational understanding of Cricut cutting machines and their creative applications. Over the course of 3 hours (2 days), students will learn essential machine functions, explore the Cricut Design Space software, and complete a guided vinyl decal project to be completed at home. Instruction will cover materials selection, basic design editing tools, proper cutting and weeding techniques, and practical troubleshooting strategies. By the conclusion of the class, participants will have gained the knowledge and skills needed to independently create simple Cricut projects with confidence. This is a demonstration course - no need to bring your own Cricut device.

This 2-part demonstration class will be held on Wednesday, October 14 and Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 6p-7:30p at the Corry Higher Education Council. The cost to register is $30 and includes both days. To register, please visit www.corryhied.org or call 814-664-9405.

This introductory course is designed for individuals who are new to Microsoft Word or want to strengthen their foundational skills. Participants will learn how to create, edit, and format professional-looking documents with ease. Key topics include:

-Navigating the Word interface and ribbon

-Creating and saving documents

-Formatting text and paragraphs (fonts, alignment, spacing)

-Using bullet points, numbering, and indentation

-Inserting images, tables, and simple graphics

-Setting margins, line spacing, and page layout options

-Proofing tools like spell check and word count

-Printing and sharing documents

By the end of the class, participants will be comfortable using Microsoft Word to produce letters, resumes, flyers, and other basic documents with confidence

This two-part class will be held on Tuesday, October 27 and Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 4p-7p at the Corry Higher Education Council. The cost to register is $50. To register for the class, please visit the Corry Hi-Ed website at www.corryhied.org or call 814-664-9405. 

Join paranormal author and storyteller Stephanie Wincik for Ghosts and Legends of Erie County, an exploration of our region’s spooky legends, mysterious sightings, and terrifying ghost stories, all set against the backdrop of Erie County’s rich history.

Stephanie Wincik is a lifelong resident of Girard, Pennsylvania and the author of seven books: Ghosts of Erie County, More Ghosts of Erie County, Heroes in Disguise, Reaching Through the Veil: Ghost Hunting in Erie County, Brilliant Souls, and a time-travel series for children, Northern Lights and The Journey: A Northern Lights Adventure. She has published historical articles in Pennsylvania Magazine and speaks frequently about local history, legends, and ghost stories. Stephanie has conducted ghost walks through Girard and along Erie’s Bayfront for over 25 years.

This program highlights six real tragedies from Corry’s past — including mysterious poisonings, catastrophic accidents, unsolved murders, scandalous love stories, mob violence, and a senseless modern killing. Through archival research and narrative storytelling, we’ll explore how these events shaped the community and why they still fascinate us today. The presentation blends historical research, archival images, and narrative storytelling to illuminate how these tragedies shaped the character of Corry. Perfect for anyone who loves history, mysteries, or the uncanny corners of local lore. It’s a night of true history, strange twists, and the kind of stories that linger long after you hear them.

Join Nathan Aulenbacher and Stacey Christe of Weird Erie to learn about some of Corry's haunted history. Nate holds a Master’s in History and explores Erie County with his family, with a keen eye for stories that slip through the cracks. He helps shape our social media presence with curiosity and care. Stacey previously served as president of a small local historical society in SWPA and brings a deep background in family history research. Also an Erie native, she runs the website along with the YouTube and Instagram accounts, always chasing the next forgotten landmark.

This presentation will be held Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 6p-7:30p at the Corry Higher Education Council. The cost to register is $10, and registration can be completed by visiting www.corryhied.org or by calling 814-664-9405. **Must be 18+ to attend.

Presented by Bridget of Stitches of Erie. Intro to needlepoint is a beginner class for people who would like to learn how to needle point. This craft has taken over the Internet, and this is the opportunity to join in on the fun. Participants will enjoy making a bag charm with an initial on it for the class. All materials are included in the class cost. *Registration deadline is October 27, 2026.

This two-part class will be held at the Corry Higher Education Council on Tuesday, November 3 and Tuesday, November 10, 2026, from 5:30p-6:30p. The cost of the class is $55 and includes all materials. Seating is limited so register early by visiting www.corryhied.org or by calling 814-664-9405.

*Must be 18 or older to attend