Caregiver Conversation Circle
2026-05-07 12:00 - 13:15, 2026-06-04 12:00 - 13:15 (America/New_York)
Do you care for a family member with chronic illness or special needs? Join our conversation circle to connect with others in a similar situation. Whether you are responsible for a child with special needs, a spouse with cognitive or physical decline, or any other situation that fits, we welcome your participation. The group will be facilitated by longtime social worker, Joanne Reed. Coffee and tea will be served.

New York City Gay Men's Chorus Presents: TONEWALL
2026-05-09 19:30 - 21:00
Members: $35; non-members: $40
Experience a joyful concert with TONEWALL, the charismatic queer a cappella band of the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus and Northeast Champions of The International A Cappella Open. TONEWALL will entertain you with uplifting anthems, classic tunes, and pop hits from today’s artists while promoting diversity, LGBTQAI+ inclusion and social equality.
They’ve played in iconic NYC venues like Carnegie Hall, Yankee Stadium, and Madison Square Garden, and we can’t wait to have them live at The Ark.

Third Act Circle: A Peer Support Group
2026-05-19 12:00 - 13:00
FREE for members and non-members
Those experiencing the stage of life referred to as “the third act” are invited to come together to talk, laugh, share stories, and support one another through life’s ups and downs. Whether you’re navigating retirement, dealing with health changes, coping with loss, or just looking to connect with others in a similar life stage, this group offers a place where you can feel heard and understood. Facilitated by Rena, the focus is on encouragement and community.

Verve Book Club: “Hello? Who is This? Margaret?” by Dani Alpert
2026-05-20 11:30 - 13:00
FREE for members & non-members
Written by local author Dani Alpert, this warm and witty novel explores how an unexpected connection can open the door to friendship and renewed purpose. Sparked by a chance phone call, the story gently examines loneliness, courage, and the power of reaching out at any stage of life. With humor and heart, it celebrates the small moments that bring people together.

Shames JCC Benefit
2026-05-28 19:00 - 22:00
Join us for a special evening to celebrate the Harold & Elaine Shames JCC on the Hudson
Honoring
Early Childhood Center Leaders Ann Zarider and Ronnie Brockman
New this Year
Open seating, lounge-style format
Passed fare & food stations all evening
Special tribute program honoring Ann and Ronnie
Silent auction + live music finale with The Uptown Boys (Billy Joel cover band)
*Can’t make the gala? You can still be part of Ann and Ronnie’s tribute book; click here for more information.
Tickets and Sponsorship Information

Post-Impressionist Escape: van Gogh and Gauguin
2026-06-01 10:00 - 11:30
Impressionism and Post Impressionism: Modern Life and Escape with Morgan Ridler
Impressionism, post-impressionism, and the famous artists from these movements are some of the most well-known aspects of art history. But the well-worn themes of light, color, and personal expression are only part of the story.
In this series of three lectures Dr. Morgan Ridler explores the lesser-known elements of these movements, including their historical and social context. She’ll explore the ways in which the modernization and industrialization of France set the stage for the revolutionary art of the twentieth century.

Hot Topics
2026-06-03 11:30 - 13:00
FREE for members & non-members
Discuss the month’s social and political issues with your fellow news enthusiasts. With timely and changing international, national, and local issues from the news arenas of government, arts, sports, science, and religion, we welcome all participants to voice their ideas. All points of view are welcome in this lively, thought-provoking, and civil discussion. Feel free to bring your lunch and/or a friend!

Verve Book Club: "Original Sin" by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson
2026-06-17 11:30 - 13:00
FREE for members & non-members
This timely nonfiction work takes a clear-eyed look at power, accountability, and the stories we tell ourselves about leadership. Drawing on careful reporting and behind-the-scenes insight, the authors examine how institutions, media, and individuals navigate truth under intense public scrutiny. Thoughtful and accessible, it invites readers to consider how modern politics shapes trust and democracy.
