Classes and Events

Learn the essential techniques of freezing and drying to safely preserve food, extend shelf life, and maintain quality and nutrition at home.

WHERE: Centennial Library

WHEN: Wednesday, October 29, 2025, from 6:00 -7:30 p.m.

Learn the time-honored and science-based techniques to safety preserve food at home.  From jams to sauerkraut, this series will equip you with the knowledge, confidence, and hands-on skills to enjoy your harvest year-round!

Location: LINC Library and Innovation Center, 501 8th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80631

To register for the classes: click the title of the class, and you will be redirected to the LINC Library registration page.  Registration for all classes will open March 17, 2026.

Spring Daytime Sessions: Tuesdays 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon, April 7, 14, 21, 28, and May 5, 2026:

Introduction to Food Preservation
Discover the basics of safe home food preservation. Learn how methods like canning, freezing, drying, and fermentation work, and how to choose the right technique for different foods. This session sets the stage with an overview of best practices, equipment, and safety guidelines.

Water Bath Canning
Capture the bright flavors of spring and summer in a jar! This class focuses on water bath canning—perfect for high-acid foods like jams, jellies, pickles, and fruits. Participants will learn step-by-step techniques, safety checks, and recipe ideas to get started.

Pressure Canning 
Preserve hearty vegetables, savory soups, and more with confidence. This class introduces pressure canning, the only safe method for low-acid foods. You’ll learn how to use a pressure canner, prevent common mistakes, and ensure safe, shelf-stable results.

Freezing & Drying Foods
Extend the shelf life of your favorite produce without canning. This session covers the ins and outs of freezing and dehydrating fruits, vegetables, and herbs while maintaining flavor, texture, and nutrients. Get practical tips for packaging, storage, and meal prep convenience.

Fermentation - Sauerkraut
Turn simple ingredients into probiotic-rich foods! This bonus class explores fermentation, focusing on Kimchi, but will talk about other fermentation opportunities (sauerkraut and yogurt). Learn about the science of beneficial bacteria, food safety, and how to add variety to your pantry with tangy, healthy creations.

Fall Evening Sessions: Tuesdays 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., August 25 and October 7, 2026:

Pickles & Peppers
Hands-on session making pickles and marinated peppers.

Sourdough Starter
Interactive session guiding participants in creating their own sourdough starter.

• Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia - October 11, 2025
• Know the Warning Signs - November 8, 2025
• Healthy Living for your Brain and Body - December 13, 2025

The miniseries provides an overview of Alzheimer's and Dementia including warning signs, disease stages, risk factors, current research, diagnosis benefits, and practical strategies for healthy aging through lifestyle changes.  This program is a collaborative effort between the Alzheimer's Association, United Way of Weld County, and Colorado State University Extension in Weld County.

Where? Mountain View Church - 6253 West 28th Street, Greeley, CO 80634

Time? 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Health Without Barriers is a free, bilingual (English and Spanish) wellness program designed for families who want to build healthy habits, manage stress, stay active, and cook nutritious meals on a budget.  The 6-week program includes twice-weekly sessions with dinner and groceries provided, and the next session starts all of 2025 in Greeley, CO - open to all family members.

NoCo Health Without Borders Flyer(PDF, 2MB)

For questions and registration, please contact Natalia at (970) 286-5210 or email at HWB-NOCO@colostate.edu 

American Diabetes Month – Healthier Desserts

Wednesday at noon, November 12

Celebrate American Diabetes Month with a presentation on managing diabetes through diet, featuring a live demo on healthier dessert options! Learn how to make delicious, diabetes-friendly treats that satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your blood sugar in check. Discover simple swaps and tips for enjoying dessert without compromising your health.

Facebook Live Events with Weld County CSU Extension and the High Plains Library District happens every 2^nd Wednesday at noon. Just scroll down to the posts at Facebook Live.

Join our "Meal Planning with Confidence" class and learn how to plan meals that save time, reduce stress, and fit your lifestyle. Discover tips for creating nutritionally balanced menus so you can enjoy delicious, hassle-free meals all week long.

December 9^th – Meal Planning with Confidence
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Centennial Library - Greeley

Healthier Chocolate Chip Cookies

Wednesday at noon, December 10

Join us for a healthier take on the classic chocolate chip cookie! In this demo, we’ll show you how to make delicious cookies with a few wholesome swaps, while still delivering that irresistible chocolatey goodness!

Facebook Live Events with Weld County CSU Extension and the High Plains Library District happens every 2^nd Wednesday at noon. Just scroll down to the posts at Facebook Live.

When: Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., January 29 and February 5, 12, 19, and 26, 2026

Where: Birchwood Manor Senior Apartments, 2830 West 27th Street Lane, Greeley, CO 80634

For inquiries, please contact Sheila Beckley

Session 1: Long Shelf-life Healthy Snacks that are Budget Friendly - January 29
Explore shelf-stable, healthy, and budget-friendly snacks.

Session 2: Meal Planning for One or Two - February 5
Learn simple meal planning strategies tailored for one or two people - save time, reduce waste, and enjoy healthy, budget-friendly meals.

Session 3: Maximizing Freezer Space - February 12
Discover smart, space-saving tips to organize and maximize your small freezer - store more, waste less, and eat well on a budget.

Session 4: Budgeting Tips and Money-saving Ideas - February 19
Learn how to take control of your money, stretch your income, and find support—because it’s never too late to build financial peace of mind.

Session 5: Healthy Recipes - Low Sodium and Low Sugar - February 26
Discover tasty, easy-to-make recipes that are low in sodium and sugar—perfect for supporting heart health and overall wellness.