Community Programs

MLK Community Programs build and support a resilient intergenerational, multicultural community in Newport County. Guided by our values, the MLK provides physical space and community-responsive programs that promote well-being, foster relationships, empower the individual, and center equality. We are committed to strengthening and expanding community programs for all residents of Newport County.

All MLK Community Programs are free of charge and open to the community.

Nutrition, Education & Cooking

Nutrition Counseling with registered dietitian Kristin Niessink MS, RD, LDN. She is available for one-on-one sessions free of charge to uninsured or under-insured clients. Those with insurance can request her service as well. For more information or to schedule an appointment: contact Kristin Niessink, at niessink6@aol.com or (401) 368-7614.

LivFit Cooking is offered at the MLK Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Registration is required. To sign up, contact Kristin at niessink6@aol.com or (401) 368-7614.

Physical Wellness

The MLK is pleased to offer several fitness classes and health screenings to the community. All fitness classes are volunteer-taught, are tailored to everyone’s ability, and require registration. Please make sure to answer ALL questions so we can anonymously report information back to our funders.

To register for a fitness class, click the button above or contact Mel at MSaunders@MLKCCenter.org or (401) 846-4828 x 124.

Toning with Deb: Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. This full-body workout aims to improve balance, bone health, flexibility, and strength in a safe, welcoming, and fun environment. All skill levels are welcome. Registration is required. Register through the button above.

Note: Toning with Deb class can enter through the Edward Street Entrance and up the stairs.

Yoga: Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Start your morning with this relaxing exercise class, designed for all students to increase strength and flexibility while linking breath to movement. Registration is required.

Note: Yoga class can enter through the Edward Street Entrance and up the stairs.

Tai Chi/ Qi Gong: : Fridays from 9:00am to 10:00am. This 2-part class includes Tai Chi and Qi Gong. Qi Gong is an ancient Chinese practice and medicine that is great for longevity and maintaining good health. Tai Chi is a free-flowing martial art that is practiced all over the world and can be utilized as a form of self-defense. All levels are welcome. Register through the button above.

Note: Tai Chi/Qi Gong class can enter through the front lobby and up the stairs.

HIV/Hep C Testing (Free and confidential): Every third Monday of the month from 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Presented in partnership with AIDS Project, RI, professionals will be onsite performing testing of HIV and HEp C. Stay for breakfast too! No registration required. For more information, call (401) 831-5522 or email info@aidsprojectri.org.

VNS Clinic: Third Wednesday of the month from 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. Services include glucose tests, rapid COVID tests, heartrate, blood pressure, O2 stats, COVID-19 guidance/info and medication review. No insurance required. No registration required.

Community Engagement & Support

The MLK offers various ongoing programs and opportunities to engage with neighbors and other community members, including community meals, various age group-centered programs and a summer concert series. Stay informed about our ongoing and one-time programs by subscribing to our newsletter or following us on social media @MLKCCenter

Senior Lunch & Learn: First and third Wednesday of each month, from noon to 1:15 p.m. Open to all older age adults. The program features activities and presentations on topics of interest to seniors and a delicious, healthy lunch.

MLK Friends Lunches and Dinners: Are offered monthly. Sit down dining and “to go” options are available.

MLK Friends Lunch: 2^nd Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
MLK Friends Dinner: Last Wednesday of each month from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Note: MLK Friends’ Lunches and Dinners attendees can enter through the Edward Street Entrance.

LEAD (Love, Equity, Acceptance, Dreams) LGBTQIA+ Youth Group: Wednesdays at 3 p.m., LGBTQIA+ youth (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, inter-sex, ally or asexual) are invited to join our peer group. No RSVPs are necessary, join at any time. For more info, contact Mel at MSaunders@MLKCCenter.org or (401) 846-4828 x 124.

Live from the Loading Dock summer concert series: Live concerts from our loading dock offered May – September. Bring your chair or blanket! Food is provided. Check our calendar and social media for seasonal schedules and musicians. and a delicious he