A major initiative is underway that will create hope and opportunities for low-income children and families on Madison’s eastside, as well as improve the overall quality of life in this community.  The East Madison Community Center (EMCC), which recently celebrated its 40th Anniversary, has embarked on a Capital Campaign to build a 12,000 square foot addition (see attached blueprint/drawing) on to its current site in the Truax  Parks Apartments, which is located just off Wright Street across from the MATC-Truax Campus.The new addition will offer no cost program options for children and families in the lower income brackets.  These services will promote fitness, encourage good nutrition, increase literacy, develop leadership, boost self-esteem and assist in building stronger and more self-sufficient children/parents with the skills and motivation to rise up to the next level. 

The new facility will include a gym, multipurpose room, kitchen, library and other expanded space for youth programs.  Our current site is “bursting at the seams” and a new addition will allow us to serve over 1,000 new participants a year with new and expanded program opportunities.

The Center’s $1.75 M Capital Campaign has reached 80% of its goal ($1.35 M) and we are hoping to break ground in May, 2006.  The primary focus of this 12,000 sq. ft. addition is “centered” on fitness and nutrition.  This project is a great investment in prevention and also the long term health benefits for low-income children and their families.

The community response to our proposed building expansion has been amazing and heartwarming.  Over 200 individuals, businesses, foundations and service clubs have donated to our Campaign (i.e. American Family Insurance, Anchor Foundation, Associated Bank, Covance, Cremer Foundation, Demco, East Madison-Monona Rotary, Evjue Foundation, Group Health Cooperative, Madison Community Foundation, Madison Gas & Electric, Mielcarek Family Foundation, Summit Credit Union, Webcrafters-Frautschi Foundation) and the gifts range from $8.47 to $250,000.  100% of EMCC’s Staff, Board, Long Range Planning Committee, Capital Campaign Committee, Senior Group and the Truax Neighborhood Association have all made contributions to this effort.  We welcome you to help be part of the solution to help bring affordable community programs into underserved eastside neighborhoods.

The East Madison Community Center has an excellent history of managing money and for turning donations into innovative, quality programming that truly makes a difference to kids.  EMCC is the most honored Community Center in the state and remains committed to building vital, vibrant communities.  To make a donation, a check can be sent to the East Madison Community Center, 8 Straubel Court, Madison, WI  53704.  If you would like a packet of information sent to you, contact the Executive Director, Tom Moen at 249-0861 or tmoen@mailbag.com.