The center is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing a community focal point where mature persons, as individuals or in groups, come together for services and activities which enhance their dignity, support their independence and encourage involvement in community activities.
The mission of the Studio 60 Senior Center is to improve the lives of all older adults, no matter what their income level, through care services and programs. Each service, activity, or program offers the opportunity for social interaction, recreation, essential support for their health and well-being, education on health/computer/language issues, support of their independence, or to encourage volunteerism and community involvement.
The following paragraphs focus on the history, services, and programs of the Studio 60 Madison County Senior Center.
History
The Studio 60 (formerly Huntsville-Madison County) Senior Center, Inc. was incorporated in 1974 when three organizations serving senior citizens were merged. The three former agencies were:
- Huntsville Opportunity Program for the Elderly (HOPE), which provided services for seniors to facilitate their ability to live independently in their own homes as long as possible;
- Fellowship Center, which provided socialization opportunities and some service functions for seniors:
- Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), which provided seniors with the opportunity to develop a recognized role in the community and meaningful life in retirement through significant volunteer service to the community.
In April 1975, all Senior Center staff moved into the old Mental Health Center facility at 218 Randolph Avenue. That location was temporary while the old Big Spring Community Center was being renovated for the Senior Center.
On October 4, 1976, the Senior Center moved into their newly renovated Big Spring Park facility. This “dream home” became a reality due to the efforts of many individuals and organizations. The Center is especially grateful to Community Development for funding the renovation of that facility.
In January 1992, after two and one-half years of study, the Huntsville City Council approved the site at Brahan Spring Park for the new Senior Center facility. On October 20, 1994, the Senior Center moved into its new state-of-the-art facility.
This 47,500 square foot building is three times the size of our old Senior Center and our city can be proud of it. It says to local residents and visitors alike that our community cares about its senior population.
Personal Enrichment Programs
- Creative Skills – Ceramics, woodworking, painting, sewing, and needlework are some of the classes offered continuously.
- Education – History, languages, writing, and genealogy are just some of the classes that are offered.
- Health – Maintenance programs feature exercises, screenings, education, and stress management.
- Recreation – Organized activities range from table games, trips, and dances, to sporting events, line dancing, and performing arts.
- Retired and Senior Volunteer Program – Seniors provide valuable services for area non-profit agencies.
- Satellite Centers – 39 satellite groups, extensions of the Senior Center, meet throughout Madison County.
- Transportation – Assistance is provided for those unable to use the City Shuttle.
Care Services
- Center for Adult Day Health Care – Supervised weekday program for mentally or physically disabled adults.
- Homemaker Services – In-home services to promote independent living.
- Meals on Wheels – Volunteers deliver nutritious lunches to homebound seniors Monday through Friday.
- Nutrition Centers – Providing fellowship, recreational activities, and a hot midday meal Monday through Friday at eight locations in Madison County, including the Senior Center on Drake Avenue.
Board of Directors
Wilman A. Pidgeon – President
James Starks – 1st Vice President
Bob Ward – 2nd Vice President
Karen Ball – Secretary
Annie Saylor – Treasurer
| Albert Butler | Durlene Bradford | Rene Breland |
| Bill Boggess | Jesse Johnson | Rosa Kilpatrick |
| Bill Heslip | Kevin Hall | Sandra Hyder-Wesley |
| Bobbie Murphy | Loretta Ragland | Virginia Dodson |
| Brenda McBride | Max Rosenthal | |
| Diane Williams | Patsy Trigg |
Annual Funding
Annual Funding Provided by the following:
- City of Huntsville
- Combined Federal Campaign
- Alabama Department of Human Resources
- Churches & Civic Clubs
- TARCOG Area Agency on Aging
- Huntsville Hospital
- CHI Grant
- Alabama Department of Senior Services
- Individuals
- Madison County Commission
- Corporations
For more information, please check out the latest IRS Form 990 and the 2022 Annual Report.
