Have you ever had a desire to speak conversational Japanese? Have you ever been curious about communicating with the dead? Have you been told your life story would make a terrific book? Have you ever wanted to use that sewing machine you inherited from your great-grandmother?
If you answered yes to any of the questions above, Potomac State College is offering ‘Classes for a Cause’ for one day – April 11. Now in its fourth year, the intent of Classes for a Cause is to “bring people together through learning while giving back to the community,” said Diana Niland, assistant professor of nursing at Potomac State College and one of the organizers.
“These courses are designed to be fun, informal, and engaging, while also showcasing the unique and sometimes unexpected talents of our faculty and staff—skills and passions that people may not typically see in their professional roles,” Niland said. “At the same time, the courses create meaningful opportunities to connect with members of the community in a relaxed, welcoming environment.”
JoAnn C. Burnett, assistant professor of business technology and marketing communications instructor, said the courses intend to “bring the community together through fun, low-pressure learning experiences while raising funds for the Potomac Highlands United Way. These are not traditional academic classes—they’re designed to be engaging, accessible, and enjoyable, giving participants a chance to try something new while supporting a meaningful cause.”
Classes for a Cause was developed as part of the Potomac State College United Way initiative. As co-chairs, Burnett and Niland were exploring ways to increase engagement and impact when Burnett proposed the idea of offering community-based classes taught by faculty and staff.
“Classes for a Cause grew out of a desire to create community-centered learning experiences that benefit both participants and local causes, said Niland. “The idea emerged from conversations about how learning could serve a dual purpose—highlighting the diverse talents of our faculty and staff while fostering stronger ties with the community. What began as a simple concept quickly gained support as people recognized the value of sharing skills, creativity, and knowledge in a way that also supports meaningful causes. “
The courses this season include:
Molly Alvaro
Paranormal Investigations
Forty-one percent of Americans believe in ghosts. Ever wonder if ghosts are real? Is there any way to know the truth? Learn more about the places and equipment used by local and national paranormal investigators. This course is instructed by PSC psychology professor Molly Alvaro.
Richard Long
Intro to the Japanese
Information Technologist Richard Long leads a course on the basics of reading, writing, and speaking Japanese. Participants will learn how to write their own name in hiragana and katakana. Learn basic Japanese greetings like “good morning, good afternoon and goodnight.” Learn Japanese numbers and how the writing system of Japan functions.
What is Binary and how does it work?
Richard Long from PSC’s IT department gives participants the opportunity to gain experience with binary computer language. Learn now 1s and 0s control every device. Learn how to count in binary. Learn the history of binary and how it is implemented in day-to-day life behind the scenes.
Drawing 101
Learn the “art of the pencil” in a course taught by Anna Dolly. Class participants will experience the thrill of putting a sketch that exists inside the brain onto paper using simple drawing skills. It’s the course the child in all of us wishes we could still take. Express yourself through the art of drawing.
Nick Gardner
Fossils - How and Where To?
Our mountainous region can still be a treasure trove of fossils, pointing to a prehistoric life that called our mountains home before humans even existed. Assistant Librarian Nick Gardner offers a practical guide to how and where to find fossils in our region, how to best collect them, and how to organize a collection.
Chris Bilitsky
Acrylic Painting 101
Chris Bilitsky leads a “beginner-friendly” course in the art and use of acrylics as a medium for expression on canvas. Participants will learn the simple methods of acrylic painting, perfect for those who are new to painting. Essential topics will be covered, such as understanding acrylic paints and their properties, selecting and using brushes, and practicing basic techniques. This course might just find the Picasso in you.
Acrylic Painting 102
Already a little experienced with art? Have you taken a class in the past and would like further instruction? Chris Bilitsky also teaches this course. This class will show participants how to mix a minimum of colors to generate many.
JoAnn Burnett
Artificial Intelligence for Everyday Life
Curious about artificial intelligence but not sure where to start? JoAnn Burnett leads this class on an exploration of what AI really is and how it is being used in daily life. AI doesn’t have to be as scary as people think. This class will demonstrate free tools and give examples of how to best use artificial intelligence in everyday routines to make life more efficient. No prior technical background is required to take this course. The only thing needed is general curiosity.
Diana Niland
Cookie Decorating
Want to be the envy of your kid’s next bake sale? Want to show off at the next potluck? Have a desire to be a bit more fancy during the holiday season? Instructor Diana Niland leads this course on cookie decorating, where participants will learn basic skills and simple design techniques to decorate a West Virginia Wildflower sugar cookie. This hands-on session is perfect for beginners and anyone who enjoys a relaxing, artistic activity. By the end of the class, everyone will take home their tastefully decorated and tasty concoctions.
Shane Riggs
You 101: Writing Your Own Autobiography
What’s your story? Learn how to journal to tell your own colorful autobiography. Everyone has a story to tell. Let's get started on yours. Who are you? Let's find out. Assistant Director of Strategic Communications and Marketing Shane Riggs has taught this popular and enlightening course throughout Allegany County, Maryland, where he served as the managing editor of Allegany Magazine for 20 years. And now he is bringing it to the campus of Potomac State College. All you need for this course is a pen, a blank book, and a little self-awareness.
Terrie Rogers
Sewing on Your Machine
Many people have sewing machines or have inherited one. Have you ever used it? Bring your machine or request that one be provided for you. Bring your questions and let course instructor Terrie Rogers assist in teaching the fundamentals so that the sewing machine you have never used can open your creativity.
“Potomac Highlands United Way is thankful to Potomac State College for once again offering the Classes for a Cause initiative to support the United Way campaign,” said Michelle Walker, executive director of Potomac Highlands United Way. “Education has the power to create lasting change, and by offering these classes, we're not only empowering participants but also contributing to a cause that uplifts entire communities. Every dollar raised, and every skill shared, brings us closer to a stronger, more equitable future for all.”
Classes are open to the public, and participants can register for any course that interests them. With limited space available, early registration is encouraged. To register or learn more about the classes, please visit the Potomac Highlands United Way website at www.potomacuw.org. Each class requires a minimum $25 donation, with all proceeds going directly to the Potomac Highlands United Way.