Diamond Night focuses on Mid-Missouri needs, support for families

Kendrick Liggins has been at Great Circle since February, but in that short time, he said he’s grown significantly.

“A lot of Great Circle staff have talked to me, and had different discussions and process with me,” said Liggins. “Now, I think differently. I think differently than I thought six months ago.”

Before February, Liggins said he was getting in a lot of trouble. Now, he’s getting to tell his story of success at Diamond Night. The eleventh annual event held Friday helps fund Columbia’s Great Circle programs. Through those programs, the behavioral health organization is able to assist and provide support for families, children and teens in need.

“Great Circle tries to be that support for families that might need help, and tries to get that help before it turns into a crisis” said Vince Hillyer, President and CEO of Great Circle. “Let’s not wait until it’s a crisis. Let’s be the first step instead of the last choice.”

According to Hillyer, 60 children and teens currently live on Great Circle’s Columbia campus. Liggins is among them.

“We probably have another thousand on any given day that we take care of in this region,” he said.

Hillyer pointed out that while the benefit was also a celebration, the money going toward Great Circle’s programs will provide services so children and families in need “have a chance to do the things that you and I have had the opportunity to do.”

“Tonight’s theme is, basically, about keys and unlocking doors to success and hope,” said Liggins. “So I guess I’m opening my door to success, being here, right now, telling my story.”

For more information on Great Circle, click here.