As part of its 30th anniversary celebrations, the Fermanagh Trust is honouring 30 remarkable individuals whose commitment to their communities has made a lasting difference. Each awardee receives a £1,000 bursary to benefit the organisation they’re involved with. A gift that celebrates their service while investing in the future.
Our latest recipient is Joe Brown from Derrylin, a man whose life’s work, both personal and professional, has quietly but powerfully shaped his local community. With over 50 years of continuous voluntary service, Joe’s name is inseparable from Knockninny Credit Union, where he has been a constant and committed presence since its founding in 1972.
Fermanagh Civic Honour Award recipient Joe Brown
“It started with a small group of locals who saw a need,” Joe recalls. “We didn’t know anything about credit unions at the time, so we brought someone in to explain what it was.” That early commitment saw Joe take on the role of assistant secretary on the first committee. “We just pulled together and made it work.”
Joe’s working life included a long career in the Unipork factory in Enniskillen. He later worked for Teemore Enterprise before retiring. His sporting years brought Junior GAA winners’ medals with Derrylin GFC, a club he remained closely tied to for decades, notably as groundsman. Alongside this, he supported various local committees and saw Knockninny Credit Union win Social Enterprise of the Year in 2014 during his time as Chair.
Like many rural credit unions in the early days, it was a humble beginning. “It was tough at the start. In a rural area, people were wary,” Joe admits. “Everyone knows each other and if someone saw you going into the credit union, they might think you were borrowing money and back then, people were very private about that.” The first meetings took place in St. Ninnidh’s Hall with “just a table and two wee money boxes. One for membership cards and one for money.”
From those modest beginnings, Knockninny Credit Union has grown into a cornerstone of the local area. “From that table in the hall, now we’ve our own premises, paid staff, and we’re extending again. It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come.”
Joe has held many roles over the years, including 10 years as Chair of the Board. He is currently Vice Chair and remains a dependable and wise voice at meetings. “Coming out to meetings kept me going. Even after 50 years, I still enjoy it,” he says. “You sit at home after dinner and think, ‘it’s time for the meeting,’ and you look forward to it.”
His leadership style is grounded in listening and inclusion. “I really enjoyed how it was run. Never any disagreements, just good discussions and always consensus,” he says. “Everyone got a chance to have their say. That was important.”
Whether through his decades with the credit union, the GAA, or local fundraising events with Derrylin Drama Group in the 1970s, Joe has been a quiet but guiding presence. His gentle manner, strong values and immense knowledge continue to inspire all those around him.
“Looking back, seeing where we started and where we are now, that’s very satisfying,” he reflects. “People’s attitudes to credit unions have changed. It’s a wonderful organisation. Unlike the big banks that are closing down or sending you online, you can ring us or call in and see us and speak to a real person.”
Joe’s story is one of consistency, generosity and humility. He believes the success of the credit union and the community lies in people giving of their time. “Places like Knockninny Credit Union wouldn’t exist without volunteers. If that culture changes, society changes.” He adds, “You get great satisfaction helping people out. You can really make a difference. There’s a camaraderie in it, like being on a football team. That’s part of what kept me coming back.”
Know someone like Joe?
Do you know someone whose long-term volunteerism deserves recognition?
The Civic Honour Awards include:
Inspirational Young Person – for those under 30 making a standout impact
Community Impact & Legacy – for those with 30+ years of service
In light of significant interest in the awards, we encourage all nominations to be submitted by early August.
CLICK HERE or email sonya@fermanaghtrust.org to find out more.