Ben D. Johnson Educational Center

09/16/2025

08/27/2025

Thank you to Hancock Whitney for joining us as a Platinum Sponsor for I Tried 2025!

08/26/2025

Today at Riverside Reserve, it’s all about courage, community, and the power of trying again. I Tried 2025 kicks off at 5 PM! Come celebrate graduates, recognize partners, and enjoy a Tuesday evening out. Didn't secure your tickets yet? There's still time -- bit.ly/itried2025

08/25/2025

The Ben D. Johnson Educational Center was founded to create pathways to success for individuals facing barriers to employment. Through job readiness training, career planning, and partnerships with local employers, the Center has helped hundreds take the next step toward stability and independence.

This mission is a direct reflection of Ben D. Johnson’s vision — building a stronger Natchitoches by investing in its people. I Tried is more than an event. It’s a showcase of his legacy. We hope to see you tomorrow.

08/23/2025

Can you say you’ve tried?

Tried to show up.
Tried to support someone’s future.
Tried to be part of something bigger than yourself.

This isn’t just another event. It’s a celebration of the people who try--meaning you!

If you haven’t yet, there’s still time to try. Tickets in bio.

08/22/2025

Did you know? 40% of Natchitoches residents live below the poverty line.

This reality inspired Claire Prymus to honor her uncle, Ben D. Johnson, by founding the Ben D. Johnson Educational Center — a place dedicated to creating opportunities and removing barriers for our community.

The I Tried event carries forward that legacy, celebrating perseverance, resilience, and the lasting impact of one person’s vision to inspire change. Join us on August 26th as we honor that spirit.

08/21/2025

5 days to go. In just a few days, we’ll gather for I Tried—a night built on persistence, purpose, and possibility.

But here’s the question:
Will your name be on the guest list?
Will your presence tell someone, “Your effort matters”?

Don’t just watch the change—be part of it. If you can't make it to the event, please consider a donation or sponsoring. www.bdjcenter.org/i-tried

08/20/2025

Your ticket to I Tried, our celebratory event, gives a glimpse into all the work we have done over the years. bit.ly/itried2025 to purchase tickets and learn more.

08/19/2025

World Humanitarian Day reminds us that change happens when we act. In 7 days, we come together to celebrate resilience and the power of community support—lifting up those who are working hard to rebuild their lives.

Show up for that effort. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Tickets. Donations. Presence. It all matters.

08/18/2025

We celebrate. We remember. We continue.

Ben D. Johnson believed in the power of trying — even when it’s hard, even when the odds are against you. His life’s work was building opportunities and opening doors for others.

As the BDJ Center hosts I Tried, we honor his legacy and the countless lives touched by his vision. Be part of this moment.

🎟 Tickets: bit.ly/itried2025
📅 Event Date: August 26, 2025

08/17/2025

The I Tried event is inspired by the belief that effort matters, perseverance matters, and every step forward is worth celebrating. These are the values Ben D. Johnson lived by — values that continue to shape our community today.

Each year, I Tried recognizes individuals who embody this spirit, reminding us that determination is the heart of progress. Join us as we honor their stories and celebrate Mr. Johnson's birthday. bit.ly/itried2025