ST. MARYS — Dickinson Center Inc. (DCI), an affiliate of Journey Health System, held an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday at its new facility, 28 Railroad St.

Approximately 100 community members, consumers, local representatives, leaders and employees gathered to celebrate “this significant milestone in enhancing mental health and support services in the community,” organizers shared.

Guy Signor, JHS president and CEO, said, “This project began in the conception stage over 7 years ago. Then once we were ready to start moving into the construction stage, the COVID pandemic hit and everything was put on hold. Facing rising costs and many other obstacles, we moved forward and today the building stands as a testament to the resiliency of the board of directors and the staff members of Dickinson Center. We are very proud of the outcome.”

The new, state-of-the-art, two-story building spans 12,000 square feet and will consolidate all of DCI’s St. Marys programs under one roof. The move, representatives said, was designed to improve service accessibility while fostering greater organizational effectiveness.

“The facility is poised to serve as a catalyst for positive transformation within downtown St. Marys, allowing for enhanced collaboration between staff and consumers,” DCI officials said.

“I’m very grateful for the capital campaign committee, especially Bob Ordiway and Bill Conrad, for co-chairing the committee and helping us to meet our goal,” said Jim Prosper, executive director of DCI. “I am thrilled to see this 7-year journey become a reality. We are very excited for the improved access, environment and collaboration this new facility will bring to the community members we support as well as our staff.”

This project was funded through a combination of state and federal grants, foundation grants, Dickinson Center operating funds, bank financing and generous contributions from business, industry and individuals in the community.

“I would like to thank the entire DCI team who has played a vital part in getting us here today,” stated Joe Haines, DCI Board chair and member of the Capital Campaign Committee. “Their tireless efforts have made this new facility a reality, and I extend my gratitude to everyone involved — from the DCI Board for their unwavering support to the capital campaign committee. Special thanks also go to Sen. Cris Dush, Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson, Rep. Mike Armanini, the City of St. Marys, and the County of Elk administration and staff for their contributions to this project.”

Established in 1958, Dickinson Center Inc. provides rural behavioral healthcare across Elk, McKean, Cameron, Potter, Forest, Warren, Jefferson and Clearfield counties.

For more information about services at Dickinson Center, visit dickinsoncenter.org or follow them on Facebook.