BEDFORD – The Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County presented prestigious awards to two local leaders, recognizing their efforts and achievements in championing our community’s youth.
Victor Makximenko Receives Most Valuable Professional Award:
The Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County is proud to announce that Victor Makximenko, STEM Coordinator, has been honored with a Most Valuable Professional (MVP) Award by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Indiana Area Council. This award recognizes outstanding Boys & Girls Club program professionals who make a lasting difference in the lives of youth across Indiana.
For the past five years, Makximenko has led innovative STEM programming at the Club’s Maker Space for teens in grades 7 through 12. Through hands-on experiences in 3D printing, laser engraving, robotics, electronics, CAD design, and engineering, he has inspired local youth to build confidence, problem-solving skills, and interest in future careers.
Before joining the Club, Makximenko served a distinguished 33-year career as an Electrical Engineer and Chief Strategist for Expeditionary Warfare at Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division. He now uses that experience to help young people explore new possibilities and discover their potential.
“Vic is incredibly deserving of this recognition,” said Ashley Gilstrap. “He brings patience, knowledge, and passion to our Club every day. Vic has created opportunities for our youth that many never imagined possible, and his impact will be felt for years to come.”
Under Makximenko’s leadership, the Maker Space has become a signature program of the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County and a place where teens can learn, create, and grow.
The Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County congratulates Victor Makximenko on this outstanding achievement and thanks him for his continued dedication to local youth.
Larry Arnold Inducted into Boys & Girls Club of Indiana Hall of Fame:
The Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County is proud to also announce that longtime Board Member Larry Arnold has been inducted into the Boys & Girls Club of Indiana Hall of Fame, one of the organization’s highest honors recognizing extraordinary leadership, service, and commitment to youth.
Arnold has served on the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County Board of Directors for the past 13 years and has been a driving force behind the Club’s growth, safety, and long-term success. During his tenure, he has served as Vice President for six years, Facilities Co-Chair for five years, Safety Committee Member for eight years, and Facilities Committee Member for 13 years.
With more than 30 years of industrial management experience, Arnold has used his professional expertise to lead several transformational projects that have directly impacted local youth. Among his most notable accomplishments was overseeing the $330,000 renovation of the Club’s Launching Center, one of the largest maker spaces in Southern Indiana. The space has become a hub for STEM learning, innovation, and workforce development opportunities for young people.
Arnold also led the redesign of the Limestone Unit’s front entrance, significantly enhancing safety and security for members, families, and staff. The project has drawn praise locally and interest from other organizations exploring similar improvements.
Most recently, he played a key leadership role in the complete renovation of the Limestone Unit kitchen, modernizing the space to support evening meal service, hands-on culinary education, and workforce readiness opportunities for Club members.
“Larry Arnold represents the very best of servant leadership,” said Ashley Gilstrap, Director of Resource Development for the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County. “His dedication and generosity have created lasting change for our Club and the youth we serve. Larry does not just support our mission; he helps build it. This recognition is incredibly well deserved.”
In addition to his leadership and financial support, Arnold is known throughout the organization for his positivity and willingness to help wherever needed. His presence at the Club brings energy, laughter, and encouragement to staff and members alike.
The Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County congratulates Larry Arnold on this well-earned induction and thanks him for his years of outstanding service to Lawrence County youth.
