By Regina McConnell
East Madison Community Center

The school year ended on a high note at East Madison Community Center (EMCC) with a festive community barbeque. Families enjoyed grilled food, a bounce house, face painting, DJ and balloon twisting.

In summer camp, the children are having more adventures, such as swimming at the Goodman Pool, a trip to Troy Gardens, learning new games, arts and crafts, and outings to Little Amerricka and Wisconsin Dells.

EMCC isn’t just for children. There are activities for all ages this summer: pontoon boat rides through MSCR, movie and bingo nights, sewing classes, table tennis, hair braiding, a community garden, a live music experience at Warner Park, teen nights and more. Go to eastmadisoncc.org or Facebook for schedules and program information.

EMCC’s HOPES Health and Wellness Program offers resources and experiences to improve wellness and self-sufficiency. Recently, adult participants took a guided tour of Hy-Vee with Corporate Dietician Aryn Degrave. Participants learned some tricks to shop economically with a healthful focus.

In addition, EMCC hosted educational evenings that included the Intervene Against COVID-19 Coalition, Community Health Worker Mya Whitson, and Social Change Practitioner Abha Thakkar. Guests learned about healthy heart awareness and diabetes and healthy food access. Each event included preventive health education, a community meal and a gift card. Stay tuned for future educational opportunities and HOPES programs at EMCC.