Kenny Rogers Children's Center in Sikeston to expand

SIKESTON, Mo. -- Although the Kenny Rogers Children's Center has already gotten a major facelift with renovations over the past few months, more changes are on the horizon.

The Sikeston Standard Democrat reported that on Thursday, there was a groundbreaking ceremony to commemorate the beginning of a 7,000 square-foot expansion.

"We asked you to lend a hand and you did," said Michelle Fayette, executive director of the Center. "We can't say thank you enough."

The renovation and expansion are set to cost about $750,000 total.

Prior to Thursday's ceremony, there was an appreciation luncheon and tours for businesses, organizations and individuals who played a part in the renovation and expansion. So far, new therapy offices and a computer room are completed, as well as an expansion in the lobby and a new reception area created. Also, the bathrooms and kitchen were updated, and new carpeting installed in the main gym. The parking lot was resurfaced and restriped and 14 spaces added.

Fayette said that she's heard several positive comments about the changes.

"I think everyone is amazed at what it looks like," she said. "After 37 years, people are still amazed that the center is still thriving and growing and doing as well as it is."

She said this year's annual telethon, in addition to a Kenny Rogers concert held last year, are what made the project possible. Additionally, tax credits donated by local individuals and businesses and in-kind gifts have helped raise funds.

The new expansion, said Fayette, will provide more state-of-the-art equipment for the area children served at the Center.

"Some of the new pieces of equipment will include a motion-analysis lab and interactive sensory-motor learning center," she said. "We will also have a meeting room that will serve multiple purposes for board and staff meetings or continuing education."

The therapy offices have room for more therapists than those currently on staff. Fayette aid that once the expansion is complete and three to five additional therapists are hired, the center should be able to accommodate the 100 or so children on the waiting list for treatment.

"We've finally got room to grow," she said.