Achieve a Brighter Tomorrow with Free GCC Lifestyle Workshops

Deptford Twp. – The Center for People in Transition at Gloucester County College is offering an assortment of personal finance, healthy living and wellness workshops during the month of September. All are free unless otherwise noted. To register, please call 856-415-2222 or email peopleintransition@gccnj.edu.  

“How to Avoid Costly Housing Mistakes Before, During and After Divorce” — RE/MAX Connection Agent Brian Ziegenfuss will explain how to protect one’s desired interest in the sale of a home and to maximize profits. Issues of lifestyle changes, new budgets and housing affordability will also be addressed. It meets Wednesday, Sept. 4 from 7 to 9 p.m.

“The ‘New’ New Beginnings” — Workshop Facilitator Deborah Makos-Trionfo will help individuals struggling with the loss of a loved one, divorce, unemployment, diminished health or eroding confidence to attain a happier future. During this eight-part series, participants will discover new inspiration for changing the “script” of their lives. Individuals will learn that they have the power to choose a happier experience, not only for tomorrow, but for every moment of their lives. This workshop is sponsored in part by the Women’s Leadership Council of the United Way. It meets Monday and Thursday, Sept. 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30, Oct. 3 and 7 from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

“Bereavement” — Licensed Professional Counselor Jeannie McQuaide, Ph.D., will provide strategies for coping with feelings of loneliness, frustration, anger and grief following the death of a spouse or loved one. The death of other close relatives and friends is highly traumatic. Participants will obtain more information on community resources and can share their experiences with other recently bereaved individuals. This is an eight-part series that meets Tuesdays, Sept. 10, 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

“Financial Aspects of Divorce” — Joseph Johnson, owner of Main Street Financial, will explain a broad range of monetary issues that individuals face when going through divorce. This workshop is designed to help individuals avoid costly mistakes, clarify expectations and begin planning for a “successful” divorce. It meets Tuesday, Sept. 10 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

“Introduction to Computers” — Experienced Microsoft Office Instructor Tinamarie Chappelear will conduct this 40-hour introductory course in Word, Excel and PowerPoint. It costs $40 for displaced homemakers and $100 for non-displaced homemakers. Evening sessions are held Thursdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. from Sept. 12 to Dec. 19. No classes will be held Oct. 31 or Nov. 28. 

 “Financial Considerations for Job Changers” — Financial Advisor Monique Castillo will lend guidance to participants transitioning between jobs by clarifying changes in retirement plans, insurance, benefits, taxable effects, savings and emergency funds.  The pros and cons of the options that someone faces transitioning between jobs will also be explored. It meets Monday, Sept. 16 from 7 to 9 p.m.

“Smart Women Finish Rich” — Joseph Johnson, owner of Main Street Financial, will equip individuals with seven steps to plan for their financial security. These simple steps are designed to help participants figure out where they stand financially, improve their lives and to put their money where their values are. It meets Tuesday, Sept. 24 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
“Laws of Separation and Divorce” — Bruce Matez, Esq., will speak on grounds for divorce, court procedures, alimony, equitable distribution, custody and visitation rights. It will meet Wednesday, Sept. 25 from 7 to 9 p.m.

“Forgiveness: A Healing Journey” — Licensed Professional Counselor Dr. Jeannie McQuaide will impart coping techniques to overcome emotional or physical pain from past experiences. During this eight-part series, individuals will learn how to let go of anger, overcome destructive behavior and begin the healing process for a healthier, happier future. Learning to forgive is an important part of the healing process. It will meet Thursdays, Sept. 26, Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, Nov. 7, 14 and 21 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. No class will be held Oct. 31. 

“Divorce Beyond Emotions: Financial Perspective” — Financial Advisor Monique Castillo will offer advice to protect one’s financial interests before, during and after divorce. She will also provide an actionable checklist and booklet summarizing key concepts to keep all participants on track after the workshop. It meets Monday, Sept. 30 from 7 to 9 p.m.

For more information contact the Center for People in Transition at 856-415-2222. 

Gloucester County College’s 250-acre campus is located on Tanyard Road in Deptford, just off Exit 56 of Route 55.