Leaders from the Columbia-based United Community Builders (UCB) predict that the new multi-million dollar Beacon of Light community center will expand opportunity for individuals and families across Boone County.
It’s located in the Whitegate neighborhood north of I-70, which is one of Columbia’s poorest neighborhoods. Former Columbia police chief Geoff Jones, a UCB board member, says Beacon of Light represents a place where people can grow, connect and access the resources they need to move forward.
UCB Senior Bishop Damian Dean says northeast Columbia has been a resource desert.