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 Class 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 Erin at EPatel@MLKCCenter.org or (401) 846-4828 x 124.

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. Register through the button below.

Toning: Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Resistance training with weights. Register through the button below.

Tai Chi/ Qi Gong: : Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. 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 below.

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 1:00 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: This Dine-In program is offered monthly.

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.

Live from the Loading Dock – Parkside summer concert series: Free live concerts presented in the pocket park behind the Center on Edward Street offered June – September. Bring your chair or blanket! Food is provided. Check our calendar and social media for seasonal schedules and musicians.

ArtLink Presented by the Newport Art Museum: Every Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Annabel Manning, teaching artist, leads art sessions to help artists of all experience levels explore their creative side. Attendees will experiment with collaging, painting, drawing, and more along with opportunities to have their work featured in showcases. Lastly, they will get a free tour of the Newport Art Museum. Check our calendar for any scheduling changes.

The Kids Wonder Lab: Two sessions are offered Every Monday at 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. and 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. Funded by the Bazarsky Family Foundation, this program is designed to enhance developmental and social skills for kids aged 19 months to 4 years old through sensory play and learning. While registration is free, it is required. To register, email our Community Programs Manager, Erin Patel, at epatel@mlkccenter.org or 401.846.4828 x124.