About this class

Relationships are at the center of a meaningful life: friendships, family connections, community ties, and the everyday interactions that make up who we are in the world. But most of us were never formally taught how relationships actually work, what makes them strong, or what to do when they get difficult.

Forging Relationships is a class that approaches human connection as a subject, exploring the psychology of relationships, the skills of good communication, the dynamics that help friendships grow and the ones that pull them apart, and the practices that help us show up better for the people in our lives. Each session is grounded in real examples, thoughtful discussion, and reflection on our own experiences.

This is not a therapy group or a support program. It's a class about a subject that affects everyone, taught with the same curiosity and depth we bring to history or finance, but focused on the most human topic there is.

What you'll do

Topics we cover

What makes a relationship strong? The foundations of trust, respect, and reliability
Communication in relationships: how to say what you mean and be heard
Active listening: what it actually means to pay attention to someone
Navigating disagreement: how to have a difficult conversation without losing the relationship
Friendship across differences: connecting with people who aren't like you
Understanding boundaries: what they are, why they matter, and how to communicate them
Building community connections: neighbors, groups, and the people we share our lives with
Relationship patterns: understanding what we bring to our connections with others

How we learn

ActivityStructured discussion every session: exploring real relationship scenarios and dynamics

ActivityCommunication practice: structured exercises in speaking, listening, and responding

ActivityReflection journals: participants track insights and goals between sessions

ActivityCase study analysis: examining relationship dynamics through stories, film clips, and current events

Community ExcursionCommunity volunteer or collaborative activity: building connections through shared experience

Community ExcursionCommunity event or gathering: practicing what we've learned in a real social setting

Guest SpeakerRelationship researcher or educator: the science of human connection

Guest SpeakerCommunity leader on civic relationships and community building

Mix of activities, Community Excursions, and Guest Speakers.

Who it's for

Open to all adult learners. Designed for adults with I/DD, autistic adults, and neurodivergent learners. Self-Direction (IDGS) funding accepted, subject to approval by your fiscal intermediary. Whether you're looking to strengthen existing friendships, build new connections, or understand yourself and others a little more clearly, you'll find a place here.

Schedule

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Pricing

$75 per session · 90 min per class. Bundle discounts apply when you register for multiple sessions: 10% off for 4 or more, 20% off for 8 or more, across any combination of classes at The Grove.

Registration is handled on our secure registration site.