Congrats to Reach Volunteer Hettie Fleming on Winning the Neal Potter Path of Achievement Award

This year, Montgomery County honored Hettie Fleming with the prestigious Neal Potter Path of Achievement Award, which recognizes volunteers 60+ with a lifetime of commitment to the community. We want to congratulate Hettie on her decades of unwavering service and spotlight her work with multiple Reach service areas.

“It has been an honor and blessing to be recognized for what you love to do." - Hettie Fleming

Hettie’s passion for volunteerism was planted early. “My parents, especially my mother, instilled in our family the importance of giving back,” she said. Growing up in a household where community involvement was a way of life, Hettie learned that service is both a responsibility and a joy. Today, she continues that legacy alongside her husband through their membership at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church and her leadership in the Montgomery County MD Section of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), where she chairs the People in Crisis Committee.

Hettie (center in purple) with other members of Mt. Calvary Baptist church at Reach's Volunteer Appreciation Event in spring 2025

“Serving others is what we are expected to do,” Hettie says. And she lives that expectation every day—whether it’s delivering food and supplies, supporting those transitioning out of homelessness, or simply offering a kind word and a helping hand.

Hettie’s connection with Reach stretches back over ten years, through her church and NCNW. “Reach has been a community partner with Mount Calvary Baptist for many years,” she explained. “We were aware of your programs and wanted to support the work you do for the community.”

One of her most memorable experiences came during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Working with Reach during COVID was a great experience,” she recalled. “We were able to donate needed supplies for your housing program, the Kaseman Clinic, and especially serve your seniors.” She also finds deep joy in assembling Welcome Baskets for individuals moving into permanent housing, including residents at Jefferson House and Rockland House—small gestures that carry a powerful message of hope and dignity.

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