Poarch Band of Creek Indians Open Health Clinic and Assisted Living Facility

POARCH CREEK INDIAN NATION, Ala., March 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The Poarch Band of Creek Indians today opened the doors of two new facilities that will provide health care services for the Tribe and its employees and long-term care and housing for its senior citizens, respectively.

The Buford L. Rolin Health Clinic, named after the Tribe's current Chairman, and the Lavan Martin Assisted Living Facility, which honors the revered late Tribal leader, serve as working monuments to the two men's lifelong commitment to providing essential services to Poarch.

Chairman Rolin is nationally recognized for his decades of work in Indian healthcare. Mr. Martin worked tirelessly during his lifetime to secure tribal services for current and future generations.

"There has been the need to expand our services and build a new health clinic for several years," noted Tribal Administrator Edie Jackson. "We are thrilled to be able to open this state-of-the-art facility, especially one that honors our Chairman who has done so much for so many."  She continued, "It is a great comfort, too, that our new assisted living facility now gives our elders the opportunity to stay close to home, live in a premier facility, and be the beneficiaries of high-quality care."

Today's "ribbon cutting" ceremony included Tribal Members, employees, distinguished well-wishers from the community and members of the media. 

"I am so proud to be able to walk through these doors today," said Chairman Rolin. "Lavan and I dreamed for many years about having these kinds of facilities for our Tribe. I know that he would be so happy to see that his hard work and commitment were remembered and honored this way. I feel so personally gratified that we are able to provide wonderful healthcare services and care for our elders right here at home."

About the Buford L. Rolin Health Clinic

Area: 68,430 GSF
The Tribal Health Clinic for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians is a two-story building that will provide health services to Tribal Members and employees. The building is designed around a central,  two-story atrium which serves as a large common area. Stone and wood construction and natural light helps create a warm, welcoming environment. Services to be provided: Diabetes Program, Women-Infant-Children Program (WIC), Women's Health, Primary Care Clinic including Specialty Care, Dental Clinic, Diagnostic Imaging, Laboratory, Rehabilitation Services (Physical Therapy), Behavioral Health, Facility Management, Preventive Health Education and Public Health Nursing, Health Administration, Business Office and Health Information Management. The building will also accommodate Tribal Member Benefits and Family Services. There will more than 200 parking spaces for visitors, patients and staff as well as a covered drive for pedestrian loading and unloading at main entrance.

Sherlock, Smith & Adams provided Medical Planning, Architecture and Engineering, Landscape Architecture and Interior Design services. The Contractors are White-Spunner and S. Rolin.

About The Lavan Martin Assisted Living Facility

The Poarch Band of Creek Indians wanted to create a home for their elders on Tribal land. The Assisted Living Home project is very progressive in how it brings together seniors, their families and community members. The design includes four Assisted Living homes, an entrance canopy, courtyards, dining, a coffee shop, business center, quilting room and resident laundry. There are 24 one-bedroom apartments, 8  two-bedroom apartments and two guest rooms. The complex also serves elders who live nearby with a 100 seat dining room and recreational and entertainment venues. The architectural concept was inspired by Creek Tribal heritage and elements found in nature. The structure is comprised of rough- hewn timbers with vaulted, exposed wood decking, and stone. A large fireplace  provides the focal point for the complex. The housing and commons spaces are surrounded by courtyards that provide a protected environment. They include landscaping features such as gardens, walks, seating, and gathering areas with a fountain and fire pit.

Sherlock, Smith & Adams provided Programming, Architecture and Engineering, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design and furniture/artwork consultation. The Contractors are White-Spunner and S. Rolin.

SOURCE Poarch Band of Creek Indians