In the summer of 1976, a small group of seniors led by Dr. Ray Gillard met to establish a senior center in Columbia Falls. As the organization grew, it moved from the Masonic Temple and Klothes Kloset to its current location—a former furniture warehouse—in April 1980. This move was made possible by persistent advocacy to the County Commissioners and extensive volunteer labor and donations from local businesses.

Even after a devastating fire gutted the building on February 7, 1984, the community rallied to help. While the county’s insurance covered structural repairs, local groups like the Jaycees and Columbia Falls High School shop classes assisted with refinishing furniture, and many residents helped with the cleanup.

Since its inception, the Center has partnered with the Agency on Aging Nutrition Program to provide hot lunches and Meals on Wheels. We have also collaborated with the County Health Department to offer resources and classes. Over the years, our activities have grown from cards and bingo to include line dancing, games, exercise classes, educational presentations, painting, and the “Jammers Band,” which has welcomed local musicians every Friday since the early 1990s.

Following the 2012 closure of the “Glacier Discovery Square” initiative, Columbia Falls has been without a dedicated community center. In the summer of 2025, the North Valley Senior Center Board of Directors began exploring an expansion to fill this gap by becoming “The Columbia Falls Community Center.”

While we are adopting a new name and website and adding services to include the entire community, our core mission remains unchanged. All current senior activities, lunches, and resources will continue. We aim to carry forward the same spirit of unity and support that has defined this center since 1976. Welcome all!