Family Programs

Parenting Apart Classes

The Tennessee State Legislature requires divorcing parents of minor children to attend a parent education program. University of Tennessee Extension has developed a 4 hour program, “Parenting Apart: Effective Co-Parenting” for divorcing parents to help them guide their children through the issues that arise because of the parents’ divorce. Classes include group discussion, viewing videos and lecture. Cost of the program is $40.00 per person if paid in advance. The cost is $50.00 (cash) if paid at the door. A certificate will be given to all persons completing the course and also forwarded to the appropriate court as proof of attendance.
Classes are held in the extension office and taught by FCS Agent, Michaela Pedigo.

Tai-Chi Classes

Tai Chi, originally developed in China, is a graceful form of exercise that has existed for some 2,000 years. It is a system of meditation and physical exercise, consisting of carefully coordinated natural movements and gradual body rotation. Tai Chi is a remarkably effective exercise, proven to help mental relaxation, strengthen both body and mind, and improve general health. The great thing about Tai Chi is that it is suitable for people of all ages and fitness. Another asset about Tai Chi is that it integrates both body and mind, exercising, and strengthening mental & physical parts of the whole person, thus improving mental and physical health! Regular practice of Tai Chi will improve mental relaxation and the ability of concentrate. Physical health will also be improved through strengthening all the body systems, particularly the cardio-vascular, respiratory, digestive, and skeleton-muscular systems. Doctors have successfully used Tai Chi to treat diseases such as arthritis, stress, heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes. Always check with your doctor about participating in any type of exercise. Hour per hour, Tai Chi is one of the most effective exercises for health.

A series of 6 one-hour classes are taught throughout the year. For further information or a schedule of classes, contact our office.

THDA First Time Homebuyers’ Training Class

THDA offers 30-year, fixed rate mortgages and down-payment assistance to first-time homebuyers. A first-time homebuyer is considered anyone who has not owned his or her principal residence in the last three years, anyone buying in special targeted areas, or an honorably discharged or re-enlisted veteran and spouse.

Not every borrower is eligible for a THDA mortgage.  Borrowers must have satisfactory credit and the home must meet certain conditions. THDA’s Homeownership programs are designed for low-and moderate-income borrowers.

What is the purpose of the THDA First Time Homebuyers’ Training Class?  Pre-purchase education provides general instruction to increase your knowledge and build new skills about home buying. To be able to qualify for many of the specialty THDA loans and USDA Rural Development loans, you are required to attend Homebuyer Education Training. First time home buyers can get their certificate for THDA funds by attending the Certified Home Buying Training Class. The home buying process seems complicated, however, taking things one step at a time can soon lead you to holding the keys to your own home!

Classes are offered once a month throughout the year from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm at the Macon County Extension Office.  For further information or a schedule of classes, contact our office.