BEDFORD — The Launching Center, an innovative STEM learning environment at the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County’s Thornton Teen Center, is just weeks away from opening to local youth.
With a combination of grants, community donations and in-kind services, the club invested about $305,000 to renovate what was formerly the west gymnasium of the old Boys Club. The multi-use space will feature robotics, a makerspace, enhanced WiFi access, and a tech shop for elementary school children and teens in after-school programming.
The center will introduce students to regionally relevant in-demand skills and jobs through project-based learning, soft-skills training, career awareness and pathway activities.
Frank Decker, chief professional officer of the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County, said The Launching Center offers limitless opportunities for local…