Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County Staging Mortgage Burning Campaign

(BEDFORD) – Leaders of the Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence County are excited – and rightfully so.

They’ve seen the light at the end of the tunnel, a glimpse of both clarity and closure.

Thanks to a generous offer from an anonymous donor, the club is staging a mortgage burning campaign. 

Video Courtesy of Maria Edwards and the Star Station

When the two clubs (boys and girls) merged in 2012 the new board combined what was owed into a sum of $820,000. After gradually whittling that total down to a manageable figure, the club is ready for a final push to purge the red ink from its books.

Mortgages, though sometimes necessary, become unpleasant realities. They are constrictive, burdensome and stressful, much like a pebble in the sole of your shoe. They keep you from advancing at your chosen pace.

At the end of 2019, an anonymous donor offered a contribution of $100,000 and issued a challenge to the community to match that offer. The deadline is Leap Day, Feb. 29.

Community activist Jim Sowders has vowed to take up residence on the roof of The Limestone if the goal is unrealized by Feb. 28 at 5 p.m.

Jim Sowders

“Can you tell we’re excited?” he asked. “I’m going to take a leap of faith to celebrate. We’re planning a grand celebration!”

Frank Decker, the club’s chief professional officer, said he’s welcoming gifts from modest to magnanimous. All amounts will be greatly appreciated.

Frank Decker

“This is so special for the kids,” he said. “We can do so much more with programming once the mortgage is retired.”

Sowders agreed. “The dream of reaching more and more children will be a reality,” he explained. “Our future possibilities are limitless.”

With approximately three weeks remaining Decker estimated the amount needed at $70,000. Donations can be dropped off at the club or made online via the organization’s Facebook page.