Bellwether Community Credit Union is proud to announce Derek Foxwell as the first-ever recipient of its Heart of the Community Award, a new quarterly recognition honoring individuals whose compassion, service, and leadership make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
The Heart of the Community Award is part of Bellwether’s newly launched Heart of the Community initiative, an extension of the credit union’s Banking with Heart philosophy, which puts people, purpose, and community at the center of everything it does.
Derek Foxwell works in the Housing and Homeless Services Department at The Center for Life Management, where he serves as the Homeless PATH Outreach Specialist. In this role, Derek works directly with Rockingham County’s unhoused population, meeting people where they are and providing hands-on, compassionate support every single day.
From visiting homeless encampments and delivering essential supplies, to setting up tents, transporting individuals to medical care, court dates, and appointments, Derek goes far beyond the scope of a typical workday. Known for his tireless dedication, his work phone is rarely off, and he often responds to calls from clients in crisis late at night. On many occasions, he has even donated his own personal belongings, including clothing, boots, and tools, to help those in need.
“Derek is truly the heart of the community,” said Adam Scalingi, who nominated Foxwell for the award. “I’ve seen firsthand how he gives everything he has to help others. He is someone I look up to greatly and learn from on a daily basis. His compassion, dedication, and selflessness are one in a million.”
Bellwether President and CEO Nathan Saller said Foxwell exemplifies exactly what the Heart of the Community initiative was created to celebrate.
“Banking with Heart is more than a slogan. It is our promise to lead with empathy and purpose,” Saller said. “Derek Foxwell lives that same philosophy through his actions every day. He puts people first, serves without hesitation, and brings compassion to those who need it most. We are honored to recognize him as our very first Heart of the Community award recipient.”
As part of the recognition, Foxwell will be featured on Bellwether’s website and social media channels, receive a personalized recognition gift, and have a $500 donation made in his name to the Quimby Fund, a homeless-focused fund at The Center for Life Management established in honor of his late supervisor. The fund provides direct assistance to Center for Life Management clients experiencing homelessness, further reinforcing Bellwether’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the communities it serves.
Bellwether Community Credit Union encourages the public to continue nominating local changemakers, including caregivers, mentors, helpers, and leaders whose quiet acts of kindness create lasting impact. To learn more or submit a nomination, visit bccu.org/heart-of-the-community.
