MADISON – The Poarch Band of Creek Indians has awarded a $250,000 grant to Madison Visionary Partners to support construction of a senior wing of the Madison Community Center.
”In our Indian culture, seniors are highly valued and respected, and they play an active role in the life of our community,” said Tribal Chair & CEO Stephanie A. Bryan. “It is very important to us that we support seniors and help provide ways for them to continue to live active, healthy lives and maintain their connections to others and to their community.
“We are honored to be able to be part of this truly visionary project.”
The Poarch Band is the only federally recognized tribe in Alabama. Bryan said they are honored to be part of the “family” in North Alabama.
“Honestly, it’s truly humbling to me to be able to present to you all today funding $250,000,” she said. “We look forward to being partners here. We feel like we’re part of your family and we want to be your partner in this community to continue to do great things when it comes to education, health care and infrastructure.”
The 34,000 square-foot community center will house the city’s Meals on Wheels program, meeting rooms, arts and craft spaces, a music room, and a multi-use gym for Madison’s special needs community.
“Today is a wonderful day for Madison as we welcome the Poarch Band of Creek Indians to our community,” said Melanie Thornton, executive director of MVP. ”We are so thankful to PBCI for recognizing the impact that the center will have on our senior citizens’ quality of life.
“With this investment, the city’s growing senior population will have access to high-quality programs and services.”
The community center will replace the senior center on Hughes Road.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Poarch Band of Creek Indians for their support and donation to our Community Center, a project that directly benefits the quality of life for residents in the City of Madison,” said Madison Mayor Paul Finley. “We also appreciate Madison Visionary Partners continued efforts in leading our Community Center Capital Campaign, they are truly making a positive impact.”
The new Community Center is being constructed at the former site of the Three Springs juvenile facility on Brownsferry Road. The city purchased the property in 2020.
The 30-acre site also includes an outdoor performance area and a community garden. The center is expected to be completed this year.
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