Local Hero: Don Bellingham, Vernon

VERNON, CT — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented and changing times.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. We’re working to let all your neighbors know about these outstanding people and their stories. See more about it here.

This submission comes from Dennis J. Plevyak who nominated Donald Bellingham of Vernon.

Local hero’s full name

Donald Bellingham

Local hero’s home state

Connecticut

Local hero’s Patch

Vernon

How do you know the local hero?

Don is the long time leader of Vernon Greenways Volunteers.

What does the local hero do?

As leader of the Vernon Greenways Volunteers Don has led the maintenance and upkeep of our town's extensive Rails to Trails system. These trails are volunteer maintained

Why do you believe the local hero should be recognized or honored?

Vernon's Rails to Trails system is a wonderful recreation resource for walkers, runners and cyclists. Don has been a dynamic supporter of the trails as founder of the Vernon Greenways Volunteers. His enthusiasm and leadership inspire many in our community. It's hard work, and Don with shovel in hand, leads a great volunteer organization by example. Without Don our community would not have a quality recreational resource utilized daily by so many on a year round basis,

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the local hero?

Don is a humble and dedicated volunteer who well deserves the spotlight turned his way

Thank you for all you do, Donald Bellingham!

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Know people making a difference in town? Nominate them as a local hero here.