Wellness Wednesdays

Feb 4: Exploring the Human-Animal Bond (This event was rescheduled from Jan. 14)

Kachemak Bay Campus: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Join local veterinarian Dr. Dots Sherwood for a fascinating conversation on the human–animal bond and its impact on health and well-being. Drawing on research from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), this presentation will explore how relationships with animals influence physical health, mental health, social connection and resilience across the lifespan. Dr. Sherwood will share evidence-based insights along with practical examples relevant to individuals, families and our community. After, we’ll have an hour of Sound Yoga led by Bhakti Wojcik, and, as always, free soup and bread will be provided. All are welcome! 

Feb 11: Social Emotional Learning: Breathing in Beginnings

Kachemak Bay Campus: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Join Lisa Nordstrom—soon-to-be neurodiverse educational and movement coach/consultant and retired special education teacher for a Wellness Wednesday workshop exploring Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and how it supports well-being across school, work and everyday life. Drawing from her many years as a special educator, Lisa will introduce framework and guide participants through real-time breathing and grounding activities that build self-awareness, self-management and connection. This interactive session is designed for all beings and all ages, offering practical tools you can try immediately and carry into your own personal growth and development. After, we’ll have an hour of Sound Yoga led by Bhakti Wojcik, and, as always, free soup and bread will be provided. All are welcome! 

Feb 18: What Is Public Health and Why It Matters

Kachemak Bay Campus: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Join local public health nurse Emily Sears for an engaging introduction to public health and its role in keeping communities healthy. This talk will explore what public health is, why it matters in everyday life and the unique history of public health in Alaska. Emily will also share insight into the work public health nurses do—from disease prevention and health education to community outreach and support—and how these efforts help protect and strengthen the well-being of our community. After, we’ll have an hour of Sound Yoga led by Bhakti Wojcik, and, as always, free soup and bread will be provided. All are welcome! 

Feb 25: Strong Bones, Strong Life: Osteoporosis Prevention & Care

Kachemak Bay Campus: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Join Dr. Joe Llenos, MD, board-certified family medicine physician at Homer Medical Center, for a practical Wellness Wednesday talk on osteoporosis prevention and bone health. Learn how bones change with age, common risk factors and simple steps to support strong bones—through nutrition, movement, lifestyle habits, screening and medical care when needed. This session is designed for adults of all ages who want to stay active and reduce fracture risk. After, we’ll have an hour of Sound Yoga led by Bhakti Wojcik, and, as always, free soup and bread will be provided. All are welcome! 

Navigating Health and Resources in the New Year

Feb. 17, 11:30 a.m – 1:30 p.m., Homer Senior Center

Community members are invited to this free public event on Tuesday, Feb. 17, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Homer Senior Center Cafeteria.

This event is designed to help residents connect with local health services, community supports and resource navigation, all in one place.

During the lunch hour, attendees can visit information tables, ask questions and pick up resources from a variety of local organizations, including:

• South Peninsula Hospital: offering flu shots, blood pressure screenings and information on living wills, POLST forms and legal documents

• Independent Living Center: providing guidance on enrollment and waiver processes

• Public Health: sharing available local resources and supports

• Hospice of Homer: offering information about local services and support

• Laurie Deakins: offering information regarding Medicaid waivers

• Homer Senior Center: sharing details on community programs. Free lunch prepared by the Homer Senior Center kitchen will be available.

Everyone is welcome, and there is no cost to attend.

For more information, please contact the Homer Senior Center at 907-235-7655.

Feb 13 and 14: Safe Sitter Course


South Peninsula Hospital is hosting a Safe Sitter® course on Friday, Feb. 13 and Saturday, Feb. 14. Classes are held from 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. on both days.

This fun, instructor-led class prepares students in grades 6 – 8 to be safe when staying home alone, watching younger siblings or babysitting. This course includes CPR and choking rescue practice on medical manikins.

Students will learn:

• Safety skills

• First aid and rescue skills

• Child care essentials

• Life and business skills

The class fee is $50, but scholarships are available.

To register or ask questions, reach out to wellness@sphosp.org or call us at 907-235-0285.