What was once a juvenile detention facility in Madison, Alabama, is now a vibrant hub of connection and care—thanks in part to the support of the  Poarch Creek Indians. The Tribe’s $250,000 investment helped breathe new life into the building, transforming it into a place where all generations can thrive.  

The Madison Community Center officially opened its doors in December 2024 and now stands as a beacon of opportunity and wellness for both seniors and youth in Madison and neighboring Huntsville. 

Inside the 30,000-square-foot facility, residents now find spaces filled with joy, learning, and belonging. From music rooms and arts and crafts studios to a multi-use gym designed to serve all individuals, the center was built to bring people together. At its heart lies a welcoming courtyard with picnic tables and a small outdoor stage—an open invitation for community events, performances, and togetherness.

Creating a Place for All Generations

One of the center’s most meaningful impacts is its ability to serve multiple generations under one roof. The Madison Senior Center now occupies an entire wing of the Community Center building, a much-needed expansion that has significantly increased the number of programs and activities available to the city’s growing senior population. From wellness classes and social clubs to educational workshops, the center gives seniors a place to thrive.

At the same time, youth in the community now have access to spaces where they can explore music, express themselves creatively, and play—all in a safe  environment. These programs are overseen by the Madison Parks and Recreation Department and are accessible through the city’s app which can be downloaded on the App Store or Google Play store, making participation easy and affordable.

A Functional Necessity and a Symbol of Growth

Mayor Paul Finley called the Madison Valley Community Center “a functional necessity for residents and community groups,” underscoring its role in keeping pace with Madison’s rapid growth and development.

“This center is about more than bricks and mortar,” said Mayor Finley. “It’s about giving people a place to come together—whether they’re playing, learning, or just enjoying a sense of belonging.”

PCI’s Role in Building a Better Community

The Poarch Creek Indians’ contribution specifically helped bring the expanded Senior Center to life—providing vital funding that enriched programs and strengthened outreach to older residents.

“We’re honored to support a space that fosters health, connection, and lifelong engagement,” said Tribal Chair and CEO Stephanie Bryan. “This partnership reflects our commitment to uplifting communities through meaningful investment and continued collaboration.”

Christina Hearne, Executive Director of Madison Vision Partners (MVP), said PCI’s support has already made a tangible difference: “The Poarch Creek Indians helped us strengthen our social infrastructure and realize a vibrant, connected, and healthy future for Madison.”

More Than a Building—A New Beginning

The story of the Madison Valley Community Center is one of resilience and vision—where the past has been reshaped into a brighter future. And thanks to PCI’s investment, the new center is not just a facility—it’s a place where community happens, every single day.