By Regina McConnell
East Madison Community Center
In 2026, East Madison Community Center (EMCC) proudly celebrates 60 years of serving the community.
Humble beginnings (1966–1969)
Our story began when the Wright Street Betterment Association recognized a pressing need: hundreds of neighborhood children lacked a safe, supervised place to play and learn. Determined to make a difference, volunteers secured space in the basement of a neighborhood church, planting the first seeds of what would become the East Madison Community Center.
By 1969, the center found a more permanent home in two modest apartments in the Truax Housing Development. Though small, this new space expanded programming for children and provided a welcoming meeting place for parents.
That same year, the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Social Work “adopted” EMCC, providing vital staff support and strengthening the center’s programming foundation.
Save the date
Join us as we celebrate 60 years of community, opportunity and impact at the EMCC 60th Anniversary Celebration, Saturday, July 25. More details will come soon.
