CityView Magazine

CityViewNC.com | 13 V era Bell learned early on the importance of sharing, giving and helping. Her mother and father passed on a commitment to compassion for others. She soaked it up like a dedicated student, fueling a disciplined work ethic that remains to this day. "Working took a lot of time. Once I retired, it was like, 'Oh.' I realized I could do more for my community. I got time to do it," she says. "I set myself up in a position that I didn't have to find a new job. And I was a young woman when I retired.'' She found ways to help others at her church. "My church is a senior church," Bell says. "And so, people found out I was retired, and I ended up picking people up, taking them to the doctor and sitting there with them. "I heard people complaining about all different things in the community," she adds. "My question was always, 'What are you doing to change it? What have you done?' I had to look at myself: What was I doing? Getting involved. Being vocal. If I'm committed to something, I'm committed to it. And I'm going to work at it." At that point, she says, people began recommending her to serve on different boards and with community agencies. Glenn Adams, chairman of the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners, nominated Bell for CityView Magazine's 2022 Community Impact Awards presented by PWC. She will receive one of three awards presented this year. Bell is recognized as the first woman in the history of the Fayetteville Police Department to achieve the rank of lieutenant. She worked with the force for two decades before retiring. e extra time that retirement gave her opened a wider window of opportunity to volunteer her services. "Let me tell you what: A lot of people have not heard of Vera Bell," Adams says. "at's because she doesn't do it for any accolades. She's working with nonprofits to make this community better." Adams says it was "a no brainer" to nominate his friend for the honor. "I would tell you that if you call Better Health, United Way, Connections, Urban Ministry or you call our church, you'll get Tuesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 2706 Bragg Blvd. themillendstore.org 910-483-2375 Specializing in custom window treatments, pillows, table cloths, bedding, cushions & more MILL END THE STORE E s t . 1 9 3 6 A F a y e t t e v i l l e T r a d i t i o n You counseled that reimagining a creative institution is community endeavor. Five years ago you joined me in a leap of faith.... For Your Bright Light I am truly blessed, Because of you, the storied destination for designer home decor textiles & wallpapers has once again become a vibrant center for creative camaraderie. Babette Giving Thanks

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