Our Story
Founded in 1997 by a dedicated group of community members, Friends of Madison Youth, Inc., known as The Barn, has been a beacon of creativity and support for young people in Madison. In 1999, the Town of Madison granted access to The Madison Arts Barn, and with generous contributions from various funds and individuals, over $300,000 was raised to renovate the space. This transformation included the addition of a stage, professional sound and lighting systems, and a welcoming café. The Barn officially opened its doors on May 5, 2000, and has since welcomed over 80,000 participants to its diverse programs and events.