“He shares his vision and wisdom with a grace and generosity that, without a doubt, is making a tangible impact to alleviate the unthinkable struggles for children living in poverty.”
Recognised for setting his own priorities aside to better the community, Derryck was awarded the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation 2024 Chairman’s Medal.
Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation’s Chair, Catherine Robson, acknowledged the outstanding impact Derryck has made to children and families across the region.
“Derryck is known at We Care Connect as a volunteer CEO who leads from the ground up, tackling any job that needs doing including packing donations, repairing furniture and maintaining the warehouse, regularly dedicating five to seven days a week to the cause,” Catherine said.
“Through the hard work of Derryck and his team, We Care Connect has now expanded to the Hunter and sees 120 volunteers across two sites collaborate with 300 case workers from 100 social support agencies.
“The number of children who are better off thanks to the support of We Care Connect is amazing, but there is a phenomenal impact that you can’t quantify – restoring safety, dignity and self-worth to these kids and their families.
“Derryk remains at the heart of everything achieved by We Care Connect, and it has been our privilege at the Foundation to be along for part of this ride.”
For Derryck, co-founding We Care Connect was a retirement project that embraced his passion for volunteering and supporting people in need.
“It’s very humbling to receive this acknowledgement,” Derryck said.
“Whilst I am the volunteer with the official CEO title, this award really is a reflection of the incredible contribution that all of the We Care volunteers past and present have given.”