Welcome to SideCircle — free, curated curriculum crafted exclusively for our Sidekick Concierge community. Explore arts & cultural talks, wellness forums, social events, expert lectures on caregiving and technology workshops.
Did we mention that it is free and available anywhere? Scroll down to learn more.

Adapting to Technological Change: From Rotary Phones to AI
During our June Current Events in Context event we will explore how every day there seems to be another headline about the implications of artificial intelligence. In this interactive discussion, we will talk about the excitement and concerns around A.I., and explore its economic and social impact within the context of our own personal experiences with disruptive technologies at home, in school and at work.

10 Things You Didn’t Know Your iPhone Can Do
Think you know your iPhone? Think again! In this fun and practical workshop, we’ll uncover some of the iPhone’s best-kept secrets—tools and tricks that can make everyday life easier and more interesting.

Art in Central Park: Alice in Wonderland, Sojourner Truth, and Balto
Central Park was never intended to have sculptures—except for one: the Angel of the Waters, now an icon of the LGBTQ+ community. So how did the park become home to over 50 statues and memorials? In this fascinating session, we’ll explore the surprising stories behind some of Central Park’s most beloved artworks, including the Shakespeare statue connected to Lincoln’s assassination and the groundbreaking Women’s Rights Pioneers Monument—the first in the park to honor real historical women.

Current Events in Context: July Edition
Join Emmy-award winning journalist, Claudine Hutton, for this thought-provoking discussion on current events. We’ll explore today’s pressing issues through the lens of history–and our own personal experiences.

Fluid & Flexible: Chair Yoga for Joint Health and Mobility
Join us for a rejuvenating and supportive workshop focused on enhancing flexibility and promoting healthy joints—perfect for seniors of all fitness levels! This session is designed to gently increase your range of motion, reduce stiffness, and support ease of movement in daily life. Whether you’re looking to relieve tightness or simply move with more comfort, this workshop offers a welcoming space to stretch, breathe, and feel your best.

Brain-Healthy Aging: Simple Strategies to Stay Sharp
Join us for a lively and interactive webinar on Brain-Healthy Aging! Discover simple, research-backed ways to boost brain fitness through food, movement, and meaningful fun. We’ll explore how everyday choices can build your brain resilience and keep your mind sharp. Come ready to share, learn, and laugh—your brain will thank you!

Picture Perfect: Organize and Edit Your Photos on iPhone
Love taking photos but not sure what to do with them next? In this practical and beginner-friendly workshop, we’ll explore the powerful features of the Photos app on your iPhone. Learn how to keep your memories organized, make your favorite moments shine with simple editing tools, and create albums you’ll love to revisit and share.

Virtual Tour of Central Park: Meadows, Woods & Gardens
Frederick Law Olmsted, co-designer of Central Park, believed deeply in the restorative power of nature—a vision influenced by the writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson. In this session, discover how Central Park was intentionally designed to evoke feelings of “rest, tranquility, deliberation and maturity”. Explore the park’s carefully crafted meadows, woodlands, waterfalls, and rock outcroppings—each element chosen to inspire both tranquility and playful wonder.

Fountains, Castles, and the Architectural Beauties of Central Park
Join us for an unforgettable tour through Central Park’s architectural highlights—where nature and design intertwine, inviting you to see the park through a new lens.

From Tired to Inspired: Introduction to Meditation for Caregivers
Caregiving takes heart—and a whole lot of energy. Join us for a calming, practical session designed to help caregivers pause, reset, and recharge. Led by mindfulness and meditation expert Cheryl Brause.

Gentle Chair Yoga for Flexibility and Muscle Relaxation
Join us for a soothing chair yoga session designed to release tight muscles, ease discomfort, and promote flexibility—perfect for seniors of all fitness levels! This class focuses on gentle stretches that help alleviate tension and leave you feeling relaxed and mobile. Whether you're new to yoga or looking for a way to stretch and unwind, this workshop provides a supportive space to connect, move, and feel your best.

Moving to Broadway's Greatest Hits
"They say you're only as old as you feel—so let's dance and stay forever young!"
Join us for a fun and energizing dance class designed for seniors of all fitness levels! Move to the iconic melodies of Broadway while enhancing your mobility, balance, and overall well-being. Whether you're a lifelong dancer or trying it for the first time, this class provides a supportive space to connect with others, move your body, and experience the magic of Broadway's show-stopping hits.

The Development, Design and Construction of Central Park
In this workshop, we’ll explore how New York’s 19th-century elite envisioned a grand public park in Manhattan “to serve as a ventilator to a densely populated city”. Discover how the designers were chosen, what existed on the land before, and the complex (and often painful) story of the communities displaced to make way for Central Park.

Current Events in Context: Immigrants in America
America's immigration story is a collection of individual journeys, including those of our own ancestors. We'll look at key historical markers—from Ellis Island to the Immigration Act of 1965 to more recent efforts to close the border and curtail immigration—and consider how our personal histories not only intersect with the evolution of U.S. policy but also help shape our sense of immigrants’ place in America today.
Join Emmy-award winning journalist, Claudine Hutton, for this thought-provoking discussion.

Password Management for Apple Devices
In today’s digital age, keeping your accounts safe is more important than ever. We'll walk you through easy-to-understand steps for managing and securing your passwords across your Apple devices, helping you keep your personal information safe.

Gilded Age Mansions of Fifth Avenue
In the late 19th century, as New York City’s wealthiest residents moved uptown to escape the crowded downtown neighborhoods, they didn’t just build grand homes—they built colossal palaces. From architectural details like turrets, gargoyles, and moats to wrought iron inspired by Italian Renaissance tombs, the Gilded Age mansions along Fifth Avenue were as opulent as their owners. Join us for a journey through time, exploring the incredible sights and stories behind these iconic homes, built by prominent American families such as the Pulitzers, Vanderbilts, and Fricks.

Overcoming Resistance: Helping a Loved One Accept Support
Many seniors, including those living independently, would benefit from some occasional support or companionship. Unfortunately, they often refuse any outside help causing difficulties for themselves and increased stress and burnout for family members.
Join us for the first of our Caregiving Series with Judy Santamaria, Sidekick Concierge’s Director of Client Success and veteran caregiving expert as we discuss the reasons behind this resistance and offer suggestions for successfully overcoming this reluctance.

Wiring Your Brain for Happiness
Note: this event has moved from March 20th to March 27th!!
Feeling stressed or anxious? Want to find a happier mindset? Research shows that practicing a few mental exercises each day can rewire the brain and down regulate the nervous system resulting in better sleep, a boost to the immune system, and a reduction in anxiety. Join mindfulness and meditation expert Cheryl Brause for an insightful session on how to manage stress, cultivate a sense of calm and welcome more happiness in your daily life.

Current Events in Context: America’s Place in the World
During the past two months the White House has dramatically upended America's projection of power and influence around the world. We'll look at the roots of the president's approach to alliances, expansionism and international treaties, and reflect on how our own identities have been shaped by 80 years of "Pax Americana."
Join Emmy-award winning journalist, Claudine Hutton, for this thought-provoking series on current events as we explore various topics from the news through the lens of history–and our own personal experiences.

The Construction and Demise of Penn Station
One of the New York City’s most devastating architectural losses was the original Beaux Arts masterpiece Penn Station, designed Charles McKim of the Gilded Age’s McKim, Mead & White. Learn what made building the station possible, how it connected Manhattan to the rest of the country, and its ultimate demise in this informative presentation with vintage photographs.

Hudson River School: Exploring the Region's Artistic Legacy
In the 19th century, a group of NYC-based landscape painters created what would later be coined as America’s first art movement, the Hudson River School. With the gorgeous Hudson River Valley, Catskill Mountains and surrounding natural areas as their muse, these painters forged a style that would influence American art, identity and culture. Stephanie Heydt, Director of Collections and Exhibitions at the New Britain Museum of American Art, leads this dynamic exploration of the movement that launched not only the direction of nineteenth-century art in this country, but also a uniquely American story.

Current Events in Context: Executive Power
Join Emmy-award winning journalist, Claudine Hutton, for this thought-provoking series on current events. We’ll explore various topics from the news through the lens of history–and our own personal experiences.
On February 27th we will examine the evolution of American presidential power, and discuss how the current White House is extending its influence in ways that have (and have not) been seen before.

The Chrysler Building: One of America’s Favorite Buildings
The Chrysler Building may be one of the world’s most iconic skyscrapers and impressive examples of high Art Deco architectural design, but did you know its construction was fueled by rival architects and automobile competitors? In the early days of the Great Depression, the Chrysler Building was part of the Race to the Sky to surpass the height of the Woolworth Building and be crowned the tallest in the World.

Keeping Your iPhone Information Private and Secure
Protecting your personal information is more important than ever. Join us for an informative workshop where we'll guide you through essential steps to keep your iPhone safe and your data secure. This session will provide the tools and practical, easy-to-follow tips you need to feel confident in safeguarding your information.

Living History: Connecting Current Events with our Past
Join Emmy-award winning journalist, Claudine Hutton, for this thought-provoking discussion on current events. We’ll explore today’s pressing issues through the lens of history–and our own personal experiences.

Moving to Broadway's Greatest Hits
Join us for a fun and engaging dance class designed for seniors of all fitness levels! Move to the iconic melodies of Broadway while enhancing your mobility, balance, and overall well-being. Whether you're a lifelong dancer or trying it for the first time, this class provides a supportive space to connect with others, move your body, and experience the magic of Broadway's show-stopping hits.

Suspect Cognitive Decline in a Loved One? Here’s What to do Next
Noticing changes in a spouse, parent or friend? Worried about a decline in a loved one’s memory or mental ability? Led by geriatrics expert, Dr. Tina Sadarangani, this essential workshop will help you identify signs of cognitive decline and offer critical advice and next steps for caregivers.

History of the New York Public Library & the Stephen A Schwarzman Building
Founded in 1895, the New York Public Library (NYPL) is the nation’s largest public library system, with 92 locations, including its iconic Beaux-Arts main branch on 5th Avenue and 42nd Street, which opened in 1911. How did such a monumental institution come to life in the heart of Manhattan, and how has it evolved over the years? Join us for a deep dive into the fascinating history of this architectural gem.

Moving Through the Holidays with Joy
While the holidays are meant to be joyous and celebratory, they can also be busy, stressful and evoke a range of emotions. Join us and our popular meditation and mindfulness instructor to learn how to embrace the holiday season and move through the month with greater ease, presence, and joy!

Book Discussion - How To Know A Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen by David Brooks
Social scientists agree that personal connections are one of the keys to longevity, optimal health, and happiness; yet, people are lonelier and more disconnected than ever before. David Brooks' new book, How to Know A Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen explores the skills we need to make meaningful connections, see others deeply and be understood ourselves.

The History of Rockefeller Center
Explore the captivating history of Rockefeller Center, one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks! Renowned for its grand Christmas tree, the bustling studios of Saturday Night Live, and the awe-inspiring 8-ton Prometheus sculpture, Rockefeller Center is far more than just a collection of attractions. Join us for a fascinating workshop that uncovers the rich history and architectural splendor of this remarkable complex.

Office Hours with Dr. Sadarangani: Expert Insights on Caregiving
Are you seeking expert advice on the complexities of caregiving? Whether you are a spouse, child or sibling (or someone else awesome), managing care for an aging family member is a stressful and often overwhelming labor of love. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to engage directly with our expert in gerontology and caregiving, Dr. Sadarangani.

Picture Perfect: Get the Most Out of Your iPhone Camera
How to get the most out of your iPhone’s camera. Whether you’re snapping family photos or capturing everyday moments, this workshop will provide you with practical tips to take your photography to the next level.

Sleep and Deep Relaxation
Want to get a deep and restful night’s sleep? Join us, and our expert mindfulness and meditation instructor, as we explore ways to improve our sleep habits, change our relationship to sleep, and learn how to get a good night's rest.

The Empire State Building: The Most Famous Building in the World!
Step back in time and explore the fascinating history of the Empire State Building, a true icon of the New York City skyline! Join us for an immersive workshop that delves into the story of this legendary skyscraper, which held the title of the world’s tallest for an incredible forty years, from 1931 to 1971.

Don’t Hold Your Breath: Managing Election Stress
Feeling anxious about the upcoming election? Join us for this supportive SideCircle event where we will come together, be together and breathe together.

Be Your Best Health Advocate
Don’t miss this essential session run by our expert In gerontology, Dr Sadarangani. Learn how to advocate for yourself and manage your healthcare by asking the critical questions and effectively communicating with your doctors.

Navigating Medicare Open Enrollment: Essential Tips for Families
Tremendous changes are coming to the Medicare system in 2025; Open Enrollment begins on October 15th. This workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to make informed Medicare decisions.