Bethel Community Facility (BCF) began construction in 1974 under the leadership of Pastor John H. Rice, Sr., as Pastor of St. Bethel Baptist Church.  After years of watching the area he grew up in deteriorate, he decided that a local community center was needed to serve as a headquarters for community restoration.   Without bank loans, the center was constructed—brick by brick—slowly but surely, with 100% community support. Often, construction was halted for months until money was raised to buy more brick.  14 years later, the building was completed DEBT FREE.

The doors of the 25,000-square-foot complex finally opened in 1988, hiring its first employees.  The building housed a 5,400 square foot gymnasium, with shower and locker rooms; a barber shop, a fitness and equipment area; a restaurant size kitchen; cafeteria; day care center; a 50-seat performing arts room with 4 study rooms; a browsing library for children and adults; 3 classrooms, a computer lab, a medical clinic, pharmacy, and a banquet hall. The first community crisis to be tackled was adult literacy. Soon, over 15 programs and services were available to the community.  Many are still offered today.

In February 2014, Pastor Lawrence J. Blackful, Jr. became CEO of Bethel Community Facility.  In the spirit of this new leadership, the organization’s name was changed to Bethel Family Resource Center in 2015 to emphasize a more holistic approach and a commitment to strengthening families within our communities. 

In 2026, Dr. Christopher E. L. Toote was appointed as the President, CEO, and Chairman of the Bethel Family Resource Center, marking a significant leadership transition for the organization. Dr. Toote brings a rich background and extensive expertise to this role, having held numerous high-ranking positions across organizations at both the local and national levels.  Dr. Toote aims to strengthen the organization’s foundational principles and ensure that all members of the community have access to the essential services and resources they need.   Under his leadership, the Bethel Family Resource Center is poised to enhance its services and engage more effectively with the community it serves.