New Tree Top Learning Center coming to Columbia

Chris and Tiffany Campbell are fighting against crime in northern Columbia by reaching local youth early.

For years the area has been struggling with crime, but the Campbell family hopes the new community center will keep kids off the streets and out of trouble.

Chris Campbell grew up “home alone.” Now he and his wife have six children and hope to create a new home for other families.

“Even though we were teaching them at home, that influence was stronger out there in the world,” Campbell said.

He is determined to share his passion and fight that battle.

The Tree Top Innovative Learning Center is a daycare, afterschool program and education center. On Wednesday, city and community leaders visited to show their support for the facility, which plans to open soon.

The main goal is to create a feeling of community.

“If we can get them early, like what Chris and Tiffany want to do, then that just makes it easier on the rest of us as a community,” said Mike Griggs, director of Columbia parks and recreation.

“One thing we know is education before you get to school is critically important. So preschool, healthy head start, that sort of program, we know it makes a difference,” said Mike Matthes, Columbia city manager.

All the work being done and equipment for the facilities were donated by local businesses.