Two trainings are being offered in the fall of 2026 (and again in 2027) to prepare Teaching Artists and staff at Community Host Sites to facilitate impactful programming to older adults.
1. Creative Aging Foundations: The Essentials (by Lifetime Arts)
2. Creative Aging Maine Training (by the Maine Council on Aging)
Important dates:
- July 1, 2026 – Applications open for both trainings
- August 5, 2026 – optional Information Session
- September 1, 2026 – Applications close
- September 8, 2026- Application decisions communicated
Lifetime Arts Creative Aging Foundations: The Essentials is Lifetime Arts’ subsidized virtual training for anyone eager to deliver inclusive, evidence-based arts programs for older adults. Over three, 2-hour sessions, you’ll learn best practices in adult learning, anti-ageist program design, and how to build age-friendly, socially connected learning communities that truly engage participants.
Perfect for teaching artists, program staff, caregivers, and community leaders, this dynamic training features real-world expertise, breakout group discussion, and a live demo class led by a Lifetime Arts trainer and seasoned teaching artist.
You’ll receive a certificate of completion plus a free one-year membership to The Creative Aging Collaborative for continued learning and peer connection.
“Training, coaching, consulting, and resources for Creative Aging Maine have been provided by Lifetime Arts, a national leader in creative aging programs and services. Learn more at LifetimeArts.org.”
Limited to (25) students
Delivery: 6 hours | Virtual via Zoom
Online Class Dates: Wednesdays October 7, 14, 21 – 2026 (3-5 p.m.)
APPLY HERE FOR LA’s CREATIVE AGING FOUNDATIONS: THE ESSENTIALS
MCOA Creative Aging Maine Training is designed for Teaching Artists and Creative Aging Community Host Sites. This interactive training will provide participants with a deeper understanding of ageism and the incredible health benefits of age-positivity that are fueled by purpose, inclusion and connection.
Participants will gain insight into how to design impactful creative programs that explore the experience of aging, the importance of connection, and the ways we feel seen and included, and sometimes invisible in later life. It will also offer ideas for integrating meaningful discussion and reflection related to the experience of aging into creative programming.
Delivery: 6 hours | Virtual via Zoom OR In-Person
In-Person Class Date: October 28, 2026 | 9:30am-3:30pm | Waterville, ME
Online Date: November 10 & 17, 2026 | 3:00-6:00pm | Virtual via Zoom