BEDFORD — The Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County has received national recognition for its advocacy efforts on behalf of local youth, earning the Hero for Youth Award from Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
The annual award honors clubs across the country that rank in the top tier for advocacy engagement. Clubs are evaluated based on their efforts to elevate youth issues with elected officials and community leaders and to ensure policymakers understand the importance of investing in young people.
Ashley Gilstrap, director of resource development for the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County, said the recognition reflects a sustained commitment to speaking up for youth at the local and state levels.
“The Hero for Youth Award is given annually to Boys & Girls Clubs that place in the top 50% of clubs for their advocacy engagement,” Gilstrap said. “It recognizes clubs that elevate their voices for young people, ensuring elected leaders understand the critical importance of supporting our youth.”
Gilstrap said the local club works year-round to communicate with elected officials and community leaders on issues affecting both the organization and young people more broadly.
“Our staff and board members communicate with elected officials and local leaders on issues not only affecting the Club, but also our young people as a whole,” she said. “We are incredibly grateful to have local elected officials consistently involved in the Club. Many clubs across the nation do not have that kind of support.”
She noted that several local leaders serve on the club’s board, including Mayor Sam Craig, Chief Terry Moore, Judge Nathan Nikirk, and City Councilman Heath Hawkins. Gilstrap also expressed appreciation for State Rep. Chris May and State Sen. Eric Koch for supporting the club’s work locally and at the state level.
“Their leadership and advocacy strengthen our ability to serve youth every day,” she said. “Their support helps ensure that the voices of Lawrence County youth remain a priority in conversations that shape their futures.”
Gilstrap said clubs nationwide are tracked annually by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America for their advocacy work and ranked accordingly. While she was unsure of the specific point system used or where Lawrence County ranked overall, she said the award demonstrates the club’s consistent engagement.
There is no monetary prize associated with the recognition, but Gilstrap said the honor carries significant meaning for the organization and the young people it serves.
“Advocacy is not a one-time effort for our Club,” she said. “It is an ongoing commitment to elevate the issues impacting young people and to push for solutions at the local, state, and national levels that help them succeed. For our local youth, it means their needs are being heard and represented by adults who are committed to creating safer and more supportive communities for them to grow and thrive.”
She added that the award serves as a reminder of what can be accomplished when community leaders and youth advocates work together.
“This recognition is a reminder that when we work together and speak up for young people, real impact is possible,” Gilstrap said.
