Transforming Lives and Building Community

MARCH 29 | BDJ CRAWFISH BOIL & BLOCK PARTY

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

MARCH 29 | BDJ CRAWFISH BOIL & BLOCK PARTY CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

Our Mission

The mission of the Ben D. Johnson Educational Center is to build community in Natchitoches and give access to social and economic success to all its residents.

“We provide an option for young adults and set them on the path towards a sustainable life, free of barriers. The BDJ Center’s staff provides a safe place for individuals to learn and grow. We meet students where they are and then help to guide them to where they need to be for success. Everyone deserves a chance.”

JoAnna Cooper, Executive Director

Over 500+ individuals served

How We Provide Access

EDUCATION & TRAINING

CASE MANAGEMENT SERVICES

COMMUNITY

Help Us Achieve Our Mission

Other Ways You Can Help

Make an impact by employing our graduates.

Donate goods and monetary gifts to support our participants.

Become a hands-on member of our community.

Upcoming Events

Work Readiness Cohort Begins

February 24, 2025 at 8 AM

Want to sign up for our program? Contact us today to ask about enrollment!

Open House

Attend our open house to meet our staff, tour our center, and become a part of our community. RSVP today!

February 28, 2025 at 12 PM

BDJ Crawfish Boil & Block Party

Community, crawfish, and a great cause! Join us for our Crawfish Boil and Block Party. Every ticket supports the Legacy Workforce Development Program, which helps us transform lives through education and job training.

March 29, 2025 from 2 PM - 5 PM

A Very Special Thank You to Our 3rd Annual “I Tried” Sponsors

  • Phil & Mary Lou Brown

    Platinum Sponsor

  • Cane River Charities

    Platinum Sponsor

  • Terri & Joe Cunningham

    Platinum Sponsor

  • Kelly & Townsend

    Gold Sponsor

  • Bank of Montgomery

    Silver Sponsorship

  • Cane River National Heritage Area

    Silver Sponsor

  • City of Natchitoches

    Silver Sponsorship

  • Connie Cormier

    Silver Sponsor

  • Edward Ward

    Silver Sponsor

  • Engage Federal Credit Union

    Description goes here

  • Law Offices of Howard E. Conday

    Silver Sponsor

  • Natchitoches Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated

    Silver Sponsor

  • Southwestern Energy

    Silver Sponsor

  • Intermetro Industries

    Silver Sponsor