Vernon Alford Makes a Difference in the Background
Vernon Alford doesn’t mind the noise of cheering, buzzers or even blaring concert music. In fact, he routinely seeks it out, immersing himself in the vibrant energy of Hartford’s youth. At 80, the city magistrate is a regular at school sporting events, where his presence is as reliable as the rhythm of the clock he manages for basketball and volleyball teams. “I’m probably at 4 games a week,” he says, proudly.
Alford’s love for music and people draws him to concerts, where he indulges in his hobby of people-watching. “It’s fun,” he chuckles, and he finds comfort in the exuberance of younger generations.
But his involvement with Hartford’s youth extends beyond a spectator role. Alford often orchestrates logistics for school sports teams, leveraging his military background to arrange travel accommodations at reduced costs. His goodwill also stretches to sponsoring student activities and providing financial support to college students.
This thread of generosity was spun from personal loss. “After my wife passed away, I heard some kids talking about her kindness,” Alford says. “Some mentioned their financial struggles in college. That’s when I decided to sponsor a student.” What began as a modest gesture of support has grown, and he now aids 4 students. “It’s not a lot, but it makes a difference,” he says.
But it’s not just about the money. He stands as a motivator and friend, forging profound connections that ripple through the community. Yet, if there’s 1 thing that perturbs Alford, it’s the noise made about his altruistic deeds. He’d rather keep that quiet.
Despite his preference for discretion, the community’s recognition of his dedication led to his nomination and subsequent selection as a Silent Hero of the Wiregrass.
This honor, a collaboration between Wiregrass Electric Cooperative’s Operation Round Up Foundation and WTVY, celebrates unsung heroes like Alford.
“Our volunteer Operation Round Up Foundation board members are good at what they do,” says Brad Kimbro, WEC’s chief executive officer. “This award is for individuals like Vernon, who contribute silently, yet significantly, to bettering their community.”
Alford’s response to receiving the Silent Hero award is 1 of humble surprise. “I was shocked. I didn’t want these things to get out,” he admits with a laugh. “But it did, and that won’t change anything for me.
“But I can’t tell you how it makes me feel to even be able to do this,” Alford continues earnestly. “I’m going to keep doing it until either the school or the city council tells me I have to quit. But until then, I have no intention of stopping. I might go bankrupt doing it, but that’s not going to stop me.”