Fall brings the energy of college students pursuing their dreams on the Mesa Community College Red Mountain campus as well as a harvest of great holiday events to which the community is invited.
First fun of the season is the Halloween Extravaganza taking place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 31. There is no admission fee for this neighborhood trick-or-treat party, which families and youth say they appreciate for the variety of activities away from busy streets. Goblins, witches, and superheroes stroll around campus to gather candy and prizes given out from dozens and dozens of booths featuring games, activities, entertainment, and spooky excitement. Parking on campus is always free.
The annual Empty Bowls event, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Nov. 5 in the Saguaro building, is an opportunity to take part in World Hunger Day. For a $10 donation, take home a handcrafted bowl created by MCC art students filled with soup donated by the local Red, White and Brew. You can also bring canned and nonperishable food to the Mesa Market, which helps students facing food insecurity. Empty Bowls is also taking place on the Southern and Dobson campus on Nov. 13 in the Kirk Student Center Navajo Room. Proceeds from both locations benefit the Paz de Cristo Community Center.
Civic engagement is on the November schedule as the MCC Red Mountain and Southern and Dobson campuses are again Arizona voting sites, ongoing through Nov. 5. Find out more about registration and when and where to vote at www.arizona.vote.
Select some thoughtful custom presents and enjoy a display of classic vehicles at the free Holiday Boutique and Classic Car Show, starting at 5 p.m., Dec. 6. Explore the beautiful campus as you shop from vendors selling home goods, crafts, jewelry, and creative gift ideas.
Under way for the season is New Frontiers for Lifelong Learning, an MCC non-credit, community education program designed by and for the active senior community. NFLL members create peer-led classes, social events, volunteer opportunities, and physical activities such as hiking, biking, and walking groups. For less than $10 a month, classes and activities are free (except for no-host social events such as dining out). Join the NFLL team and participate in selecting class topics, activities, travel, and culinary adventures. For more information, go to newfrontiers.mesacc.edu or call (480) 461-7497.
Thinking of taking some classes or pursuing a degree? It’s not too soon to sign up for the Spring Semester, which begins Jan. 11, 2025. Register now to get the classes you want at times most convenient for you. To learn about academic degrees, workforce classes, financial aid and more, stop by the Red Mountain campus Enrollment Center in the Mesquite building, call (480) 654-7600, or go to mesacc.edu/enroll.
The MCC Red Mountain campus is located at 7110 E. McKellips Road, Mesa, AZ 85207.