BEDFORD – The fluorescent lights of the Lawrence County Teen Center hummed, but they were nearly drowned out by the rhythmic thump-thump of a basketball and the spirited debate coming from the new gaming lounge. At the center of the swirl stood Bram Boyd.
For Boyd this wasn’t just a job; it was a homecoming. He had first walked through these doors in 2021 as the Teen Center Director, planting seeds of community before life took him away for a few years. But the pull of the Club was strong. When he stepped back into his old office in January 2025, he didn’t just pick up where he left off, he ignited a transformation.
The results of Boyd’s return were immediate and undeniable. By the end of 2025, the center was transformed. On any given afternoon, there were 20 more faces than there used to be. The quiet corners were now filled with life, thanks to a relentless outreach campaign.
Boyd wasn’t content waiting for the kids to find him. He was a constant fixture at Local Middle Schools Boyd was connecting with students before they transitioned to the high school years. At the High School, he was walking the halls to share exactly what the Teen Center had to offer. He visited local businesses forging partnerships to bring new resources and vocational opportunities to the youth.
His momentum didn’t go unnoticed. In January 2026, the Club leadership recognized his impact with a promotion to Area Club Director. While his heart remained with the teens, his vision expanded to oversee the Lincoln Elementary and Mitchell Community Schools sites.
“He has gone above and beyond to reach the teens of Lawrence County,” noted Ashley Gilstrap, Director of Resource Development. “He has greatly increased attendance, but more importantly, he has brought a unique positivity and energy to our team. I truly enjoy working with him.”
Today, Boyd balances his dual roles with the same grit that defined his first year back. Whether he’s designing a new program for the Mitchell site or mentoring a regular at the Teen Center, his goal remains the same: to create a space where Lawrence County youth don’t just show up, but where they feel they belong.
As the sun sets over the county, the Teen Center remains a beacon of activity, a testament to one leader’s dedication to the next generation. We are incredibly thankful for Bram’s heart, his hustle, and the vibrant future he is building for our community.
