LIFELONG LEARNING
#BackToSchoolWithRUIU
Dear Residents, Family, and Guests,
Welcome to #BackToSchoolWithRUIU at RUI University! As we step into the crisp and colorful season of fall, we are excited to share a new lineup of lifelong learning classes and festive monthly events designed to inspire curiosity, celebrate traditions, and foster community connections. This fall, RUI University is focused on embracing knowledge, culture, and togetherness.
Interactive Fall Classes:
Discover hands-on courses and engaging discussions that make learning exciting and relevant From history and cultural exploration to creative workshops, our fall classes are designed to spark joy while encouraging connection among residents, families, and friends.
Monthly Events to Look Forward To:
September – National Assisted Living Week: Join us as we celebrate this special week honoring the vibrant lives of our residents Expect a variety of themed events, social gatherings, and opportunities to share stories that highlight the spirit of community.
October – Sports History Film Festival: Step back in time through the lens of sports history. We’ll feature classic films and documentaries that showcase legendary athletes, pivotal moments, and the cultural impact of sports throughout history
November – Día de los Muertos Sugar Skull Decorating Workshop: Celebrate the traditions of Día de los Muertos with a hands-on workshop where participants can design and decorate sugar skulls. This colorful cultural experience honors heritage, remembrance, and creativity.
We warmly encourage all residents, family members, and guests to join in these events and classes. Whether you are looking to learn something new, connect with others, or celebrate the season in meaningful ways, #BackToSchoolWithRUIU at RUI University offers something for everyone.
HISTORY
Virginia is For
September 2, October 7, November 4 at 11:00 AM
Join Josh Urban for a lively and engaging three-part series that celebrates the fascinating people, stories, and innovations of the Old Dominion. Each session brings Virginia’s colorful history to life through music, folklore, and invention
Virginia Is For Musicians – Tap your toes as Josh spins tales and records of Virginia’s finest musicians, including legends like Patsy Cline, Ralph Stanley, and even Wayne Newton.
Virginia Is For Weirdos – Discover the strange and unusual side of Virginia as Josh shares ghost stories, Bigfoot sightings, and other quirky local legends.
Virginia Is For Inventors – Explore the creativity born in Virginia, from Jim Crumley’s hunter’s camo to the groundbreaking work of George Washington Carver, Cyrus McCormick, and more innovative minds.
This entertaining series blends storytelling, music, and history for an unforgettable journey through Virginia’s unique cultural legacy.
Josh Urban is a speaker, musician, disc jockey, and musicologist. He's hosted radio and podcast programs, played and taught guitar professionally for nearly twenty years, and is an enthusiastic collector of recordings from around the world
Travel Through Pages
September 2 October 7 November 4 at 4:00 PM
Pack your imagination and join us on a literary journey each Monday at 4:00 p.m.! In Travel Through the Pages, we explore books that transport us to new places, eras, and experiences all from the comfort of our favorite chair Whether we're strolling through the streets of Paris, solving a mystery in a cozy village, or reminiscing about summers past, every story is a new destination. This club is perfect for those who love good stories, good company, and a little adventure between the covers.
STORYTELLING
Honoring Stories
September 5 & 19 October 3 & 17 November 14 & 28 at 11:00 AM
Honoring Stories is a writing class in which participants do 10-minute freewrites, shared in an encouraging, judgement-free environment Bring a pen and paper and an open heart
Stories That Connect
September 12 October 10 at 11:00 AM
Join Jennifer Jurlando for an engaging themed storytelling series that celebrates the power of shared experiences. Each month, we’ll explore a new theme sparking memories, laughter, and meaningful conversation. Whether you’re sharing your own story or simply listening to others, this welcoming space invites connection, reflection, and a deeper sense of community
Jennifer Jurlando has been offering writing classes and grief support groups at the Barrington since 2017. She encourages participants to share, to listen, and to lean on each other for wisdom and encouragement Jennifer is an adjunct instructor at VCU and a grief group facilitator at Full Circle Grief Center She is the daughter of a Barrington resident, the mother of a Barrington employee, and a frequent presence in these halls!
The Legacy of Service: Honoring Our Nation’s Veterans
November 11 at 3:00 PM
Join us for a powerful and reflective session presented by our Hospice partners, dedicated to honoring the lives and legacies of America’s veterans. This lifelong learning class will explore the traditions, values, and personal stories that highlight the sacrifices and resilience of those who served our nation Through guided discussion, shared experiences, and commemorative practices, participants will gain a deeper understanding of:
• The unique journey of veterans across different generations of service
• The role of hospice in providing dignity, respect, and compassionate care to veterans at life’s end
• How communities can preserve memory, honor service, and support healing This class offers not only education but also a moment of connection inviting us to reflect, share gratitude, and celebrate the courage of those who served. Together, we learn, remember, and honor.
Crater Community Hospice was established in 1995 after a need for hospice services was identified by both John Randolph Hospital in Hopewell and Southside Regional Medical Center in Petersburg At that time both facilities were community hospitals and recognized that a community-based hospice could better serve the local community.
The Metro Richmond Zoo
October 17 November 7 at 2:00 PM
Join the Metro Richmond Zoo for a fun-filled and educational adventure as they bring the zoo directly to you! In this engaging lifelong learning class, you’ll have the chance to see and learn about some of your favorite animals up close With a hands-on, interactive experience, you'll discover fascinating facts about wildlife and their habitats. Whether you're a lifelong animal lover or just curious to learn more, this unique class promises to be both informative and entertaining for all ages. Don't miss out on this unforgettable opportunity to connect with nature in a whole new way!
The Metro Richmond Zoo is home to 2,000 animals representing 190 species from around the globe. The zoo is accredited by ZAA, the Zoological Association of America
The Wellness Forum: Insights for Lifelong Living
November 13 at 4:00 PM
Step into an inspiring forum designed to enrich your journey of lifelong living. The Wellness Forum brings together a curated group of healthcare and wellness experts who will share insights, tools, and resources tailored for today’s active, engaged seniors. This interactive session is not just an expo it’s a learning experience where you can explore the latest innovations in health, therapy, and lifestyle support. Each partner will highlight practical strategies that empower you to live with confidence, vitality, and joy.
Why Attend - This is more than a health fair it’s a lifelong learning opportunity to stay informed, ask questions, and walk away with practical wisdom for today and the future.
At Legacy Healthcare Services, we utilize evidence-based clinical care to transform the lives of residents and to empower them to live a life full of purpose, safety, and dignity. Our world-class therapists are available on-site within each community.
Crater Community Hospice was established in 1995 after a need for hospice services was identified by both John Randolph Hospital in Hopewell and Southside Regional Medical Center in Petersburg. At that time both facilities were community hospitals and recognized that a community-based hospice could better serve the local community.
At Rebirth Advanced Healing, we are proud to bring innovative, evidence-based wound care solutions to communities across Virginia Specializing in the application of advanced biologic grafts, we provide effective treatments for chronic wounds that resist traditional healing methods. Benchmark Senior Solutions is a local consultant group comprised of licensed healthcare professionals, who have dedicated their careers working in healthcare settings, specifically with the senior population
FINE ARTS
Josh
Farley:
Magician & Illusionist
September 17 at 3:30 PM
For over 10 years, Josh Farley has delivered unforgettable corporate entertainment, from strolling magic that sparks conversation to high-energy stage performances that leaves audience in awe. Prepare to be amazed with his hour long Magic & Illusions show at Barrington at Hioaks!
Since stepping onto the stage, Josh Farley’s magic has been showcased on CW’s Penn & Teller: Fool Us, headlining Celebrities of Magic and guest headlining Masters of Illusion Live! alongside one of his heroes His performances have reached hundreds of thousands in person, with millions more viewing his unforgettable Penn & Teller act.
Grateful to make a living doing what he loves, Josh brings his unique blend of wonder and showmanship to audiences nationwide Beyond theaters and stage lights, he dedicates time to performing in senior living communities a tradition inspired by his grandmother, who encouraged him to follow his dream.
Every show is a chance to share joy, connect, and create moments of magic As Josh travels the country, he invites audiences to be part of the journey one magical memory at a time.
CULINARY
Harvest Time: Late Harvest and Dessert Wines
September 9 at 3:00 PM
Discover the artistry behind late harvest and dessert wines, from luscious ice wines to rich port-style selections This class explores the unique production methods that create their concentrated sweetness and depth of flavor Participants will enjoy guided tastings while learning about the traditions behind these indulgent wines.
The Dark Side: Unusual & Unique Varietals
October 14 at 3:00 PM
Step off the beaten path and explore lesser-known grape varietals that offer surprising aromas, textures, and stories This session introduces participants to wines that rarely appear on traditional menus, encouraging adventurous palates and conversation Learn how these unique wines are grown, crafted, and enjoyed around the world
Thankful of Tradition: Family-Owned Wineries
November 11 at 3:00 PM
Celebrate the legacy of family-owned wineries and the generations of dedication behind each bottle. In this class, participants will taste wines that reflect personal history, heritage, and the values of small-scale winemaking. Through stories and tastings, discover how tradition and passion shape the character of these remarkable wines
CULINARY
Culinary Fusion: Blending Cultures
September 19 at 3:00 PM
Explore the creativity that emerges when culinary traditions from different parts of the world come together This class highlights dishes that blend flavors and techniques, such as Tex-Mex or Asian-inspired street foods, while examining the cultural history behind them. Participants will enjoy a live cooking demonstration that showcases how fusion cuisine celebrates diversity through food.
Comfort Foods & Their Stories
October 15 at 3:00 PM
Discover the rich cultural and personal histories behind some of the world’s most beloved comfort foods. This class dives into the traditions, memories, and meanings that make these dishes timeless favorites across generations. A cooking demo will bring one of these comforting classics to life, allowing participants to experience how food connects us to home and heritage
The Art of Tea and Coffee
November 19 at 3:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of tea and coffee, two of the most influential beverages in history. This class explores the origins, global traditions, and the artistry behind preparing them with care A guided demonstration will showcase brewing techniques and flavor exploration, offering participants a sensory appreciation of these everyday rituals.
World Alzheimers Day
September 26 at 3:00 PM
This class raises awareness and understanding of Alzheimer’s disease, exploring its impact on individuals, families, and communities. Participants will learn about current research, risk factors, and ways lifestyle choices can support brain health. The session encourages open discussion and shared experiences, fostering knowledge, connection, and empowerment
Aging & Sarcopenia- Move it or Loose it
October 24 at 11:00 AM
Sarcopenia, or age-related muscle loss, is a common but often overlooked part of aging In this class, participants will discover how strength, balance, and movement can slow its progression and improve quality of life. Practical strategies and exercises will be discussed, offering tools to stay active, strong, and independent.
Osteoporosis
November 28 at 11:00 AM
This class explores osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures as we age Participants will gain a clear understanding of risk factors, prevention, and treatment options The discussion will also highlight everyday strategies to protect bone health and maintain mobility and independence.
