ROANOKE RAPIDS — Vernon Bryant always knew he had a calling. Unlike many who struggle to find their niche in society, the Halifax County native set his goals early and never looked back. “I just wanted to help people,” he stated during an interview, “I just wanted to make a difference.”

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Evidence of his success isn’t hard to come by. Bryant was among the group of eight individuals honored as local heroes during Halifax Community College’s Black History Month celebration. The title was in recognition of Bryant’s years of service to the community through his work in law enforcement, education and humanitarian based projects.

After graduating from Fayetteville State University Bryant knew the direction his life was headed. “I always felt my calling was in the field of human services. That’s where I wanted to be,” he stated.

Returning to Halifax County for six months as a teacher for Weldon City Schools, Bryant then found a job with the Department of Corrections Probation and Parole Office in July of 1981, where he would become the first African-American male probation officer, supervisor and district manager in Halifax County history.

Having graduated from the department’s Correction Leadership Program in 2001, he currently acts as Halifax County District 6A judicial manager of community corrections.

In 1997 Bryant became the first African-American appointed to the Roanoke Rapids Graded Schools District school board and currently serves as the board’s chairman.

Among his other duties, Bryant is vice-chairman of Halifax Regional Medical Center’s board of directors. He is also the past chairman of the State Employee’s Credit Union.

But the role that brings the biggest smile to Bryant’s face is that of co-founder of Exodus for Youth Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives and futures of youth in the four county area of Bertie, Halifax, Hertford and Northampton.

“It’s a good feeling,” Bryant said of his recent recognition. “I don’t consider myself a hero or anything. I just do what I have to do. I can only do this by standing on the shoulders of many others, not just African-Americans but all races. ” He went on to single out a few of his personal heroes who have given him guidance throughout the years such as Weldon’s civic and political leader Doc Brown, attorney Lunsford Crew, Sen. Julian Allsbrook and Halifax County Superior Court Judge Alfred Kwasikpui.

Like most successful individuals, Bryant credits his family for providing him with the strength to carry his dreams to fruition. “My wife Sandra is my backbone,” he said. “She always supported me.” Bryant also credits his two children, Kendall and Kevin, both college graduates, and his older brother, Eugene, who passed away in 2002, as positive influences in his life.

“I truly appreciate HCC, Dr. Ervin Griffin and the Daily Herald for selecting me,” said Bryant, “I do this because I like doing it. This isn’t just a job to me.”