Improv-Based Social and Cognitive Learning Programs for Teens, Young Adults & Seniors

“Last night after class, I watched my son engaged in telling a story to his partner. He used his whole body to reenact a scene. That might not seem like much to you, but he has had a story-telling goal on his IEP for years.

"My husband and I joined this session several weeks ago and were amazed at how warm and friendly the facilitator, and the class were."

"Thanks for being so amazing and for all you do! This program is one of the best things to happen for Nicholas. Such a great opportunity and experience. When I see him on the stage working through the improv and being brilliant, it makes my heart so happy! I see it making his heart happy as well! He talks to me about each class when we drive home afterwards. He loves to relive the moments and laugh all over again."

"Each week we look forward to a relaxed and mentally stimulating two hours. This is something we truly value as we are in our seventies and are somewhat isolated and suffer from dementia."

“Every member of my son’s team remarked on what a monumental improvement he has made in the area of spontaneous speech! We all attribute it to improv training. Nothing we’ve ever done has made this much of a difference. These skills are teachable and they really are transferable!”

"Not only is our memory tested and our imagination stretched but the scenes we work involve parts of our brain that we have long thought were dormant. Kudos to you all."

“It’s the best intervention for kids with this learning profile I’ve ever seen.”

"Active Minds has given me a connection to others who are from my generation. It has given me the ability to laugh more and harder since I was a teenager. Most of all, it has given me a deeper acceptance of myself and others. It’s given me the feeling that ‘we’re all in this together’ laughing all the way. So grateful there are still opportunities to enjoy life no matter what age we are."

"Hands down the best activity or program our daughter has ever participated with. In Connections we are able to see and experience her as the social, caring, cooperative, intelligent and FUNNY young woman that she actually is. Connections is both engaging, welcoming and safe and allows her to be who she really is with others that have similar experiences and backgrounds."

"The NCT, Unscripted Learning, class for seniors offers a unique opportunity for older people to explore new ways of thinking. The class encourages spontaneity and originality, two attributes often lacking in the ordinary senior life, in a friendly, compassionate atmosphere. Plus, it’s great fun!"

"I realized quickly that this was way more than Improv. Improv got the kids in the door, but what they gained in the time spent with their friends and teachers once a week at connections was immeasurable. I watched kids transform before my eyes. The genius of the program is that through Improv our kids are learning social skills, confidence and how to interact with the world around them that does not always welcome and accept people who may seem different.

Hendrix loves attending class weekly. We have not missed a session since that first one. He finally has a place where he belongs, and has built friendships along with a sense of community with people his own age."

"Active Minds Senior Improv class is the highlight of my week. I haven’t laughed this much in 30 years!"

"This class is like a gym for your creative brain—helps speed up your thinking, reacting, and focus on others. It always creates full-out laughter in everyone who comes. Everyone has fun—whether you are experienced or not. You CAN learn to do this, too."