About Us

Unlike most other community centers, what is unique to this 50+ community center is the relationship of the Birmingham Public Schools and Next, the non-profit organization serving seniors. The progressive vision of school district leaders in the 1970s, adopted the philosophy that became the cornerstone of future strategic plans and mission statements; that the educational system and the surrounding community, which includes residents, businesses and other interlocal agencies, should be interconnected and working together to offer the best possible educational experience to students. This philosophy was realized through the creation of the Community Education Department, and Next, as the vehicles to foster a school-community partnership that has withstood the test of time, and resulted in a stronger and more inclusive community for learners of all ages.

Next continues to meet the needs of our 50 plus community with a robust and diverse calendar of activites and a comprehensive Support Service Department. Over the past several years, membership at Next has increased over 70% and program participation has expanded to more than 268% with 1,500 weekly visits to the center - we now serve more than 2200 members!

We are honored to serve the 50 plus populations of Birmingham, Beverly Hills, Bingham Farms and Franklin, as well as residents from the surrounding communies. We know that success doesn't happen without strong community partners - we are grateful for the support and guidance of the schools and the munciplaites we serve as we continue to thrive while meeting the increasing demands of our area's older residents.

We are proud to serve our community, armed with an entrepreneurial spirit and a dynamic approach to addressing community issues, Next relies on a diverse revenue stream to support its day-to-day operations. Philanthropy is key to keeping our programs and services growing while ensuring accessibility to all who want to participate. Next is proud to be a 501 (c) (3).

Meet Our Instructors

Creative Arts

Karen Halpren:

Karen Halpern has been an Art Instructor at Indiana State University, where she received her Masters Degree in Art. Since moving to Michigan 35 years ago she has taught adult classes at the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center, and surrounding communites while also connecting with many students while teaching Painting Workshops in many scenic locations. Her work has been included in 90 exhibitions and is included in private and corporate collections. You can view her work at karenhalpern.net.

Marat Paransky:

Next welcomes mixed-media artist and instructor Marat Paransky — whose studio practice includes sculpture, painting, drawing, photography and other media. Marat’s artwork falls into one of several themed projects including research-based work on social issues, text pieces about the art world, and more spontaneous assemblies of found materials. Marat has a BFA in Drawing & Printmaking from Wayne State University, and a MFA degree in visual arts from Lesley University College of Art & Design.

Fitness:

Karen Lutz: Mat Yoga, Seated Yoga and Meditation

Karen Lutz, An E-RYT 500 who has guided over 5000 students. Karen teaches a gentle Hatha based yoga practice with a focus on honoring the way we feel and allowing the flow of breathing to be the foundation of the practice. She specializes in yoga with a chair, yoga for seniors, gentle yoga on the mat, and yoga for those who are healing from surgery or are caregivers.

Caryn Ciagne: Fitness, Flow Yoga, Seated Yoga and Mediatation

Caryn Ciagne, Concierge Wellness Coach and owner of CC Yoga, discovered yoga to reduce stress and anxiety. She continues to enjoy yoga and its myriad of benefits and looks forward to sharing what she has learned!

Cheryl Goodwin: Tai Chi for Health

Cheryl started Karate long, long ago in a galaxy far, far away. She received her black belt and 2nd Dan rank under Sensi Dennis Fritchie. While training in Karate, she also studied Yang-style Tai Chi with Carol Yamaski, a student of Chengman-Ching. Cheryl has also studied Aikido and Iaido, with ranking in both styles. Cheryl has returned to Tai Chi and has received certifications to teach Tai Chi for Arthritis, Tai Chi for Fall prevention and seated Tai Chi in 2018.

Christine Stewart: Line Dancing

Christine Stewart has been teaching line dancing for 13 years. She loves her work and invites you to join her in exercising body and mind as you move to different types of music and learn new steps and dances.

COVID-19 Building Protocols and Guidelines

Yes, we are open!

We are so excited to welcome you back to Next! We realize it will take time for some of our members to feel comfortable returning to their daily routines — but when you are ready, Next will be here to help ease the transition.

Under the strict guidance of the Center for Disease Control, we will be reopening in phases and implementing best practices and protocols to guard your health and safety. As we gradually reopen and reintroduce some of our programms, you will notice the building has been redesigned to allow for social distancing and other safety measures while rigorous protocols have been implemented.

We will be resuming some classes and programs with a hybrid approach of small groups, outdoors, or on Zoom. Please keep in mind these timetables and guidelines may be altered at any time as we must be able to quickly adapt to changing circumstances. For your safety and the safety of your fellow Next members, thank you for patience and compliance.

Here is what you can expect when you come to Next:

Frequent and thorough cleaning/disinfecting daily, multiple hand sanitizer stations throughout the building.
Masks must be worn upon entering the building and throughout the building at all times, no exceptions.
Enter the building only through the east door, closest to Glenhurst or go directly to the courtyard for check-in. Upon entering, you will be greeted by our staff to log you in with your name, phone number, date, and administer a no-touch temperature check. You will be asked a few routine questions and requested to use the touchless hand sanitizer before you’re on your way.
Please maintain 6-feet social distancing at all times including if you are waiting for your turn to enter or exit the building or a room.
We encourage you to register for all classes or programs online through our website — or feel free to call the office with your registration request and credit card information, if needed, in order to minimize the exchange of money.
One member in the office at a time and please enter through the customary entrance, but exit through the workroom to alleviate any bottlenecks.
Participation in classes and presentations will be dictated by proper social distancing guidelines.
We will be able to utilize the the outdoors making social distancing in exercise classes much easier to execute.
No outside food intended for sharing will be allowed in the building.
Bottled water will be available free of charge. There will be no coffee service at this time.

We will be slowly introducing programs that we can offer safely, but other programs will need to be suspended until further notice.

Our Sponsors

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

We are grateful for our partnerships!! Without sponsor support, Next could not meet the growing needs of our 50-plus community.

From programming, to transportation and support services, we appreciate your assistance!!

Thank You to our Community Partners!

Thank you - Thank you to our sponsors! We know it takes a strong commitment from our community partners to provide the high quality programs and services to our area residents.

Employment Opportunities

There are no open positions at this time.

Boomer Summit

April 30th 2016 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Groves Auditorium

Join thought leaders from around the region for this collaborative event that brings discussion, learning and focus to Baby Boomers. Boomer Summit is a half-day event for those who are facing the excitement, and the uncertainty, of planning for retirement. Launched by Next (formerly BASCC), The Principal Shopping District, The Baldwin Library and the City of Birmingham, the first ever Boomer Summit will bring people together for meaningful presentations on a range of topics that directly impact what matters most to Baby Boomers.

Join other Boomers for a fast paced and high-energy program filled with recognized experts on:

Wellness - Staying healthy and fit
Travel for leisure and adventure
Encore careers including entrepreneurship
Enriching your life through volunteering
Managing Your Money after 50
Maintaining healthy relationships and staying connected
The benefits of staying creative

A Vendor Fair starts the day with local businesses, life-long learning programs and non-profits focused on amenities, services and resources available to Baby Boomers.

Fee: $10. Register

Boomer Summit Next Steps

Ongoing digital communications, events, and programs are planned to continue to engage Baby Boomers after the launch event in May.

Click on the newsletter to see all of the programs and classes coming to Next!

Next Membership

Active adults have enjoyed the programs and support services offered at Next for over 37 years. We continue to evolve to meet the diverse interests of today's residents over the age of 50. We offer more programming to stimulate your mind, ignite a passion, strengthen your body and explore new destinations. Check out our current newsletter to see a huge variety of all we offer to keep you active and connected!

Next also offers support services that focus on allowing older adults to live independently and age in place. The support service department provides information and referrals, transportation services, nutritional support and much, much more. Ask anything – we are here to help!

Thank you for taking a look inside Next. Here you can find out how to become a member and the benefits to membership, check the calendar for activities at the center, or contact us with questions or comments. Welcome, come on inside, and see why Next is Your Place to Stay Active & Connected.

Sign up today to participate in enrichment activities, cards and games, computer classes, and much more. Other opportunities are available at discounted prices such as health and fitness classes and travel opportunities. Sign up on line, call or visit Next to become a member, register for classes, or to sign up for events and trips.

Stop by for a tour or spend a day with us, we’re sure that you will agree this is a great place to be!

Membership Dues

For those residing in our Participating Communities (Bingham Farms, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, and Franklin)

$55 Single Membership
$70 Family Membership

For those residing outside of our Participating Communities

$80 Single Membership
$95 Family Membership

PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR POLICES PERTAINING TO MEMBERSHIP PARTICIPATION: /docs/POLICIES_FOR_NEXT_PARTICIPANTS.docx

Contact Us

Birmingham Next
2121 Midvale Street
Birmingham, MI 48009-1509
Phone: 248-203-5270
Fax: 248-203-5272

Hours of Operation

Monday through Thursday 8:30 a.m. – 7::30 p.m.
Friday 8:00- 3:00 p.m.

Executive Director
Cris Braun
E-mail: Cbraun@birmingham.k12.mi.us

Office Supervisor
Kathleen Tillson E-mail: Ktillson@birmingham.k12.mi.us

Office Assistants:

Sara Callendar E-mail scallendar@birmingham.k12.mi.us

Bev Singer E-mail bsinger@birmingham.kqw.mi.us

Marketing/Communications

Susan Gwizdz E-mail: sgwizdz@birmingham.k12.mi.us

Support Service Provider
Pat Brooks E-mail: Pbrooks@birmingham.k12.mi.us

Sandi Cassar E-mail: scassar@birmingham.k12.mi.us

Program Planner

Jolee Hentgen E-mail: jhentgen@birmingham.k12.mi.us

Pam Hall Email: phall@birmingham.k12.mi.us

Financial Administrator

Sandra Catterall E-mail: scatterall@birmingham.k12.mi.us

Next Board Members

Officers

Marcia Wilkinson – President
David Underdown - Vice President
George Dilgard – Secretary
Don Brundirks - Treasurer
Jay Reynolds – Past President

Community Representatives

Chrisitine Allen
Greg Burry
Sandy Debicki
Stuart Jeffares
Bob Koenigsknecht
Julie Mandich
Elaine McLain
Eileen Pulker
Gordon Rinschler
Lori Soifer
Joe Valentine
W. Douglas Weaver, M.D.

Municipal Laisions

Rock Abboud - Beverly Hills
Pierre Boutros – Birmingham
Mike Seltzer- Franklin
Kathy Mechigian - Bingham Farms

Ex-Officio Members

Cris Braun – Executive Director

Community Partners/Sponsorship Opportunites

Sponsorship is a great way for any business to support valuable organizations in the community like Next. We accept sponsorships for classes, programs, newsletters,and activities, but we also rely on sponsors for our fundraising events, such as the Next Golf Classic, and the Health Expo and Flu Shot Clinic. Sponsors enjoy wide spread publicity at events like these as they are often covered by local media, not to mention the hundreds of participants and spectators who see how your business is giving back. Sponsors are also noted in our bi-monthly newsletter, and on our website reaching thousands of community members.

There are many ways to invest in the community, why not choose one that encourages the community to invest back in you? To find out about all the exciting sponsorship opportunities call our office at 248-203-5270.

Volunteer

Volunteers are our most important asset. Volunteers greet visitors to the center, facilitate classes, share their experiences and help with special events.

Come be a part of Next!

Volunteer Opportunities:

Facilitate

Do you have a special talent, skill or passion? If you would like to share that talent by facilitating a new group, please let us know! Next is always looking for additions to our already robust programming. Please contact the office for more inforamtion.

Clerical

The Next office is staffed primarily by volunteers who answer phones and greet the Center’s participants. Office volunteers work three and a half to four hours (morning or afternoon) one or two days a week. The office supervisor provides training to learn the phone system and office procedures.

Computer Instructors

Volunteers teach Next members basic and advanced computer usage in a one-on-one setting. Instructors teach three, one-hour sessions each week on a day of their choice. Instructors should have a good working knowledge of the Internet, e-mail services, and several components of Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.). Familiarity with digital photography software PhotoShop(TM) or special software for the visually or physically challenged Jaws(TM) Zoomtex(TM) etc.) is helpful but not required.

Enrichment

Assist with special events, facilitate a class, provide entertainment, or gardening assistance.

Meals on Wheels Packers

Volunteers are needed Monday through Friday to help pack hot and cold meals for delivery to homebound seniors.

Meals on Wheels Drivers

Volunteers are needed Monday through Friday to deliver pre-packaged meals to homebound seniors. Meal delivery requires about an hour and a half. Volunteers should be able to lift 20 pounds.

WE HAVE A SPOT FOR YOU!

Whether you are volunteering to make new friends or share your skills, you will find volunteering at Next is a worthwhile experience. Call 248-203-5270 to volunteer today. We hope to see you soon!

Travel

There are many wonderful travel opportunities with Next, to destinations local and abroad. There are day trips every quarter to local places of interest and to select Detroit Symphony Orchestra Pops and Classical Concerts. In partnership with the Birmingham Community House, Next also offers their many day or extended travel opportunities to our members.

Computer Classes

The Birmingham Next Computer Lab is free to use for members, and features 8 computers with high speed Internet access, and laser jet printer.

The lab is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 8:30 am – 7:30 pm, and Friday 8:30 am 3:00 pm.

Computer Training

Monday through Friday with evening classes available.
Instructors: Next Volunteers

Fee: $5 for each one-hour appointment

Purchase discount cards and save ($20/5 lessons)
Bring in your laptop or use one of our computers to learn everything you want to know about Microsoft Word, Excel, email, accessing the Internet, and so much more. Do you have another type of technology that you want to use to its fullest, iPhone, iPad, Kindle? Our experts can show you how. Pre-payment is required. Stop by Next to pre-pay and schedule a class.

Donate Your Old Computer

Next accepts computers from 2008 or newer to be refurbished for our computer program. Please call 248.203.5270 for drop off details.

Gifted Computer Program

Do you need a computer to use at home? Donated, used and upgraded computers are available with instruction at Next. To learn more about this program call the Next office.

Links to helpful resources

Additional resources:

Oakland County Health Division – Senior Services: [url=https://www.oakgov.com/health/seniors]https://www.oakgov.com/health/seniors[/url]

State of Michigan – Aging & Adult Services Agency: [url=http://www.michigan.gov/osa]http://www.michigan.gov/osa[/url]

National Council on Aging: [url=https://www.ncoa.org/]https://www.ncoa.org/[/url]

National Institute on Aging /U.S. Department of Health & Human Services: [url=https://www.nia.nih.gov/https://www.hhs.gov/aging/index.html]https://www.nia.nih.gov/https://www.hhs.gov/aging/index.html[/url]

Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org/

CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention): https://www.cdc.gov/

Publications from the State of Michigan:

· Services for Seniors – Laws and Programs for Senior Adults : [url=http://www.legislature.mi.gov/publications/servicesforseniors.pdf]http://www.legislature.mi.gov/publications/servicesforseniors.pdf[/url]

· Consumer Protection Resource Guide: [url=http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/Publications/ConsumerProtection.pdf]http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/Publications/ConsumerProtection.pdf[/url]

· Changes & Choices (Information for Senior Adults): http://www.legislature.mi.gov/Publications/ChangesAndChoices.pdf

· Peace of Mind (Statutory will/patient advocate law/organ donation info and interactive forms: http://www.legislature.mi.gov/Publications/PeaceofMind.pdf

http://www.legislature.mi.gov/Publications/PeaceofMindInteractive.pdf

· Veterans Benefits: http://www.legislature.mi.gov/Publications/VeteransBenefits.pdf

Transportation

Thank you to Beaumont and SMART for our continued partnership!

Beaumont's finacial support of the Next Transportation program allows Next to provide relaible transportation to important appointments for area seniors...transportation on SMART buses that have been generously loaned to us throught SMART!

Leave the Driving to Us!

Next Transportation is available for people 55 years or older and physically handicapped persons residing in Birmingham, Bingham Farms, Beverly Hills and Franklin Village. We are happy to take you to your medical appointments, shopping, lunch or the movies. Call the Next office to learn more. (248) 203-5270

Next Mini-Van Hours
Monday-Thursday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Fridays 8:00am - 2:30 pm

Mini-Van Transportation Service Area
The Next service area includes Birmingham, Beverly Hills, Bingham Farms, and Franklin.

The delivery area includes medical buildings at Crooks and Long Lake in Troy and medical facilities located on Northwestern Highway between 12 and 14 Mile Roads

Requests for transportation need to be made at least 3 days in advance.
Riders are picked up at their homes for trips to medical, dental, personal appointments, shopping, club meetings or activities at Next.
Personal assistance within the home is not provided. Drivers are not permitted to enter the home or do any lifting.
Wheelchair riders are encouraged to have an escort if extra assistance is needed.
All destinations must be scheduled in advance. Drivers are not permitted to make non-scheduled stops.
Notify Next as soon as possible to cancel a trip.
Riders should be ready and waiting in the designated pickup location at least 15 minutes before the scheduled pick up time.
Drivers will wait for 5 minutes at your location before moving on to their next pick-up.

Rider fare: $5 one-way or $6 round trip.

Call 248-203-5270 for further information about our Transportation Program.

Low Income Assistance

Below are some of the programs available for low income residents. Please call the Next Support Department between 9 am and 4 pm, Monday through Friday for additional program information.

Major Home Repair Loans for Birmingham Residents

The Foundation for Birmingham Senior Residents has no interest loans available for major home repairs which would include replacing a roof, furnace or windows. To qualify you must be a resident homeowner of the City of Birmingham and meet current income guidelines.

Minor Home Repair and Yard Services for Birmingham and Beverly Hills residents

Utilizing the funds from the Foundation for Birmingham Senior Residents and Birmingham Community Development Block Grant and Beverly Hills Community Development Block Grant, we are able to assist low and moderate income residents with minor home repairs.

Additional Assistance to Low Income Seniors

If you are having difficulty paying for prescription co-payments, insurance premiums, eye glasses, dental care or hearing aids please call the Support Department to see if we can assist you.

Health & Nutrition

Blood Pressure & Blood Oxygen Clinic

Certified volunteers are available to take your blood pressure & blood oxygen each month at Next.
Free blood pressure screenings are offered monthly the first Monday between 10-11 am. No appointment is necessary.

Meals on Wheels

· Please call Emerald Foods at 248-689-0001 to enroll in this nutrition program. Additional volunteers are always needed to help deliver meals. If you are available once a week, once a month or once in a while to deliver or package meals please call Judy Murrell at 248-203-5281. Your help is welcome and most appreciated.

Ensure

· Ensure Plus in vanilla or chocolate flavor is offered at a reduced price. Please call Next for more information or to place your order.

Nurse on Call

The Nurse on Call (NOC) offers information about health and related resources. Public Health nurses answer questions regarding communicable diseases, immunizations, prescription assistance, nutrition and more. Call 1-800-848-5533.

Counseling with a Licensed Social Worker

Not sure what direction to take with an elderly parent or family member who is requiring more and more of your time? Geriatric Specialists from Oakland Family Services are available to help develop the best plan to age in place and to help with a quality aging experience. Please call 248-858-7766 ext. 200 for more information.

Support

Next Support Services are available to our Next members and the general public. To schedule an appointment, register for a tour, or for more information about any of the services the Next Support Services Department offers, call 248-203-5270 between 9 am and 4 pm, Monday through Friday.

Blood Pressure Screening

Free blood pressure screenings are offered monthly the first Wednesday between 10-11 am. No appointment is necessary.

File of Life Cards Available

The File of Life card provides medics with a quick medical history when a patient in unable to offer one. The card, kept in a red plastic pocket labelled “File of Life”, is held with a magnet to the outside of your refrigerator. Next has a supply of the cards, generously donated by the Foundation for Birmingham Senior Residents, inquire in the office.

Information about Community Resources

Who should be called for furnace repairs, delivery of prescription meds, dental support or hearing aid services? Answers to these questions and more are available Monday through Friday in the Next Support Services Office. Information and referral services are provided to seniors and their families in the following areas: general geriatric counseling, housing, in-home health care options, the Meals-on-Wheels program, prescription coverage, transportation and many other options.

Medical Equipment Loans

Short-term loans of medical equipment such as walkers, canes, wheelchairs, bath benches, assistive devices, etc. are available free of charge for Next members. There is a $20.00 per item fee for non-members. Donations of clean, usable equipment are accepted.

Medicare/Medicaid Counselling

A counselor is available from Area Agency on Aging 1B to answer questions about Medicare and Medicaid. Contact Haim Schlick at 248-642-1149 or haimschlick2002@yahoo.com to set up an appointment.

Resource Center

Please stop by the Resource Center to obtain information about local businesses covering a variety of services.

Senior Housing Tours

Tours are held monthly January through June at local housing facilities. Tour dates are listed in Senior News. Click on the “Newsletter” menu to view the current issue. Reservations are required.

Transportation

Transportation service is available for seniors and disabled adults residing in the communities of Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Bingham Farms and Franklin to medical, dental, personal appointments, shopping or activities at Next. Transportation hours are 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Thursday and Friday 8:00 - 2:30 pm. Call at least three days in advance to request a ride. For reservations call (248) 203-5270. Additional transportation options are available, please call the Support Service Department for more information.