Building Careers, Confidence, and Community in Natchitoches

We equip individuals in Natchitoches with career training, mentorship, and real-world opportunities that lead to personal and professional growth.

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.

HOW WE PROVIDE ACCESS

  • EDUCATION & TRAINING

    Resume writing, financial literacy, interview prep, and soft skill development. See where our participants are now, and the impact that continues after the program ends.

    OUR PROGRAM

  • WRAPAROUND SUPPORT

    The BDJ Center’s staff provides a safe place for individuals to learn and grow. We meet students where they are and then guide them to success.

    GET INVOLVED

  • VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

    Learn how you can help our community access the opportunities to further develop Natchitoches.

    VOLUNTEER

“Before BDJ, I felt stuck. Now, I have a job I’m proud of and a plan for what’s next.”

Upcoming Events

From Trying to Thriving: I Tried 2025

The Ben D. Johnson Educational Center invites you to join us for I Tried, our fourth annual community fundraiser. On Tuesday, August 26th, we will gather in the heart of Natchitoches at Riverside Reserve to celebrate the boldness it takes to try again — and the power of community to meet that courage with opportunity.

August 26, 2025 | 5:00PM

Riverside Reserve, Natchitoches

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

  • Cane River Charities

    Platinum Sponsor

  • Phil & Mary Lou Brown

    Platinum Sponsor

  • Terry & Joe Cunningham

    Platinum Sponsor

  • Kelly & Townsend

    Gold Sponsor

  • Bank of Montgomery

    Silver Sponsor

  • Cane River National Heritage Area

    Silver Sponsor

  • City of Natchitoches

    Silver Sponsor

  • Connie Cormier

    Silver Sponsor

  • Edward Ward

    Silver Sponsor

  • Law Offices of Howard Conday

    Silver Sponsor

  • Southwestern Energy

    Silver Sponsor

  • Natchitoches Alumnae Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

    Silver Sponsor

  • Metro Industries

    Silver Sponsor

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