Gibson Center celebrates expansion that’s been thirty years in the making

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – Thirty years in the making — a new building at the Gibson Center for Behav

ioral Change is making it easier for people to get help and support for substance use disorders.

Community members and leaders celebrated the expansion of the Gibson Center — an organization that provides a wide range of services, particularly for those struggling with substance use disorder.

According to Chief Operating Officer Ryan Essex, the new building brings together the different services clients need — such as counseling, medication management, employment help, community and peer support — making it easier for people to make all of their appointments and without having to travel all around town.

“This event was a culmination of three decades of thought, dreaming, planning —,” he said.

Essex’s favorite part was planning and designing the space with the architect, engineers, and staff.

Architect Amee Boettcher said it was a wonderful experience to build such a signature piece.

“The lobby has been really something special because it has windows to the front and the windows in the back, and it’s very tall. It connects the two wings,” she said. “With the circular chandelier, it’s just very welcoming.”

Essex said they incorporated trauma-informed colors in the design that can create a calm feeling in the building.

Chief Executive Officer John Gary — who has worked at the Gibson Center for 38 years — said a warm and welcoming space with staff who care, empowers patients.

“Our mission stands loud in the DNA of our staff, as well as in the fabric of every piece of furniture in this b

uilding,” he said. “That’s what this building represents — hope.”

For more information about the Gibson Center, click here.