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Chesterfield Human Services Quarterly Newsletter
November 2025 |
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Dr. Worsley serves as the Deputy County Administrator for Human Services
As fall gently settles in, we find ourselves less than 100 days away from the holiday season. Though the days are growing shorter, they remain filled with meaningful activities and opportunities that continue to enrich the lives of our citizens and strengthen our community.
I want to take a moment to express my deep gratitude for each member of our team. Your dedication and daily efforts—often quiet and unseen—create a lasting impact. You truly make a difference, and while it may not always be recognized, it is always felt. As we continue to work side by side, let’s remember the importance of caring for one another and for ourselves. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is not just helpful—it’s essential. Please take the time you need to rest, recharge and reconnect. Use your PTO, lean on your colleagues and know that asking for help is a sign of strength. We are here for each other, united in our shared purpose to serve and uplift our community.
Today, I also ask that we pause to honor the life and legacy of Mr. James M. Holland, a devoted member of the Dale District Board of Supervisors, who passed away from illness on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. Mr. Holland was a tireless advocate for Chesterfield County and especially for the Dale District, which he served with unwavering commitment for many years. He never lost sight of the trust placed in him and carried that responsibility with humility and grace. His passion for Human Services and his deep love for the community were evident in all he did. May his legacy of compassion, service and leadership continue to inspire us and live on in the work we do.
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Community Engagement and Resources
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Community Engagement and Resources (CER) Participates in National Night Out Events Across Chesterfield
The CER team was proud to take part in this year’s National Night Out (NNO) celebrations, joining community members at the Stonebridge, Bensley, Ettrick and Beulah Recreation Centers. These vibrant events brought neighbors together in a spirit of unity and collaboration.
Each location buzzed with energy, thanks to strong support from the Chesterfield community. Attendees enjoyed free entertainment, delicious food, family-friendly activities, and opportunities to connect with a wide variety of local vendors and organizations. CER team members were on-site to engage with residents, answer questions and promote community resources.
National Night Out continues to be an important opportunity to build stronger community relationships, and CER was honored to be a part of these impactful events.
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Christmas in July Annual Luncheon
On Wednesday, July 9, Aging and Disability Resources hosted the Annual Christmas in July luncheon at Winfree Church. The event welcomed seniors and sponsors involved in the Telephone Reassurance Program and the Chesterfield Council on Aging.
Thirty attendees enjoyed a festive afternoon filled with warm conversation, holiday cheer and delicious food. Guests also played a lively game of Christmas Jingo—a seasonal twist to Bingo—that brought plenty of smiles and laughter.
To top off the celebration, each participant received a thoughtfully prepared gift basket. It was a joyful gathering that celebrated community, connection, and the spirit of giving—no matter the season!
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Senior Town Hall Meeting
On Wednesday, July 30, Chesterfield Aging and Disability Resource partnered with Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan to host a Senior Town Hall Meeting at Meadowdale Library. The event drew more than 80 local residents, who had the opportunity to engage directly with the Congresswoman and ask questions about upcoming policy changes affecting older adults and individuals with disabilities.
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Older American Month Essay
On Tues., July 22, Madison was recognized at The Span Center Board meeting for her heartfelt entry in the Chesterfield County Older Americans Month essay contest. Inspired by her grandmother in heaven, Madison wrote a touching tribute that moved everyone who read it. This year, Madison was the only student to enter the contest—a true testament to her initiative, courage, and leadership. We are incredibly proud of her!
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Senior TRIAD Ice Cream Social
Seventeen members joined us for a friendly game of Chair Volleyball and to enjoy a sweet treat from Bruster’s Ice Cream.
TRIAD meetings are free and held on the third Thursday of each month from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. They offer a great opportunity for seniors to learn valuable safety tips and receive education on crime prevention.
Representatives from the Chesterfield Police Department, Sheriff’s Office, Fire and EMS, Chesterfield County Public Libraries, the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, Chesterfield Aging and Disability Resources and the Office of the Attorney General are regularly in attendance.
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Kinship Fair
The Fall Kinship Fair was held on Friday, September 12, at the Beulah Recreation Center and was a great success! Thirty participants registered, which featured a powerful presentation by Claudia Perez from Greater Richmond SCAN on the importance of self-care and the benefits of joining a Kinship Support Group.
More than 15 community partners also participated, each offering valuable resources and information to attendees. It was a meaningful event filled with connection, support, and shared experiences. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make it possible!
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 2025 International Teachers Welcome Reception
Chesterfield County Community Engagement and Resources proudly hosted the 2025 International Teachers Welcome Reception in July, honoring educators from around the world who are joining Chesterfield County Public Schools.
This year's cohort includes teachers from Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Kenya, Mexico, the Philippines, Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela—each bringing invaluable global perspectives to our classrooms and community.
The evening featured welcoming remarks from County leadership, the presentation of a symbolic gift to each teacher and a catered dinner celebrating the rich diversity of cultures represented.
Leaders from local multicultural organizations were also in attendance, offering new teachers a meaningful opportunity to connect with the broader community. We extend our sincere thanks to the Chesterfield County departments that participated and shared vital resources to support our educators’ success both inside and outside the classroom.
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Government Citizens Academy (GCA) and My Chesterfield Academy (MCA) Reunion
On Tues., Aug. 26, alumni from the Government Citizens Academy and My Chesterfield Academy came together for a summer reunion and tour. Attendees enjoyed a relaxed networking social followed by an outdoor tour of Chesterfield’s Henricus Historical Park.
It was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, reflect on shared experiences, and continue building community engagement beyond the classroom.
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 Celebrating Pretrial, Probation and Parole Supervision Week
On Wed., July 23, 2025, in honor of Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Week, the Chesterfield/Colonial Community Corrections Services (CCS) staff gathered at the Colonial Heights Courthouse for a special celebration featuring lunch, staff recognition, and an inspirational guest speaker—a Recovery Court graduate.
This year’s theme, “Heroes Behind the Mission: Changing Lives, Enhancing Public Safety,” highlights the vital role that pretrial officers, probation officers, and professional staff play in promoting public safety, justice, and support for their clients. Their dedication continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and the broader community.
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Juvenile Justice Services celebrates two NACo and VACo achievement awards for 2025
Juvenile Justice Services is proud to announce that two of its programs have received 2025 Achievement Awards from both the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the Virginia Association of Counties (VACo).
The Home Incarceration Program was recognized for its expansion of supervision services to juveniles residing in the City of Richmond. In just one year, this expansion enabled more than 20 youth to avoid secure detention while being successfully supervised in their communities—helping reduce geographic disparities in service access. Congratulations to the Home Incarceration team for earning both NACo and VACo awards for this impactful initiative!
The Court Navigator Program, part of the Court Alternative Resource Program (CARP), was also honored for its work supporting youth and families involved in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. Launched in 2020, the program assists families referred by the Court Service Unit—often those managing multiple court-related responsibilities. By helping families navigate court requirements, the program has improved compliance and reduced the time needed to complete court-ordered services.
Not only did the Court Navigator Program receive both NACo and VACo awards, but it also earned the Best Large County Achievement Award—marking the second time Juvenile Justice Services has received this prestigious distinction.
Congratulations to both the Home Incarceration and Court Navigator teams for their dedication to innovation, equity, and community impact!
Residents Heroism Recognized
On September 24, Board Chair Jim Ingle, County Administrator Dr. Joe Casey, Deputy County Administrator Dr. James Worsley and Fire Chief Loy Senter visited the Chesterfield Juvenile Detention Home to honor several residents for their heroic actions during a medical emergency on August 25. When a staff member experienced a seizure, the youth responded immediately by calling for help, placing the staff member on their side and cushioning their head with a blanket.
Their calm, quick thinking and teamwork made a critical difference in a moment of crisis.
County officials praised the residents for their courage and composure, offering heartfelt words of encouragement and recognition for their actions.
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Child Advocacy Center (CAC) Strengthening Community Partnerships
The Child Advocacy Center continues to build strong community partnerships! In August, the CAC joined the Domestic Violence Task Force at National Night Out at Bensley Park—an excellent opportunity to connect with residents and network with other service agencies.
Also in August, the CAC partnered with the Chesterfield County Police Department to provide training for School Resource Officers on using minimal facts cards—a tool designed to help officers have brief, appropriate conversations with children to assess safety and determine next steps.
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First Lady of Virginia Visits Recovery Academy
On Wednesday, September 17, Suzanne Youngkin, the First Lady of Virginia toured the Recovery Academy. She met with students, listened to a presentation about the program, and heard powerful testimonials from a former student, a parent and a key stakeholder.
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Read to Recovery Expands Access to Supportive Resources
Read to Recovery is an initiative designed to improve access to substance use and recovery-related materials for individuals and families seeking support. The program removes barriers like borrowing periods and late fees, allowing individuals to keep books as part of their recovery journey. No library card or checkout is required. Community members may choose whether or not to return any books they take.
Bookshelves are located at Chester Library, Meadowdale Library and Midlothian Library—areas with historically high overdose rates. In addition to books, the shelves include pamphlets and materials that connect community members to recovery services. The collection is funded by a $20,000 grant from the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority (VOAA) and is part of the wraparound services offered through the Mobile Outreach Cooperative.
Read to Recovery complements other harm reduction services provided by the library, including:
- Naloxone (opioid overdose medication)
- Test strips for fentanyl, xylazine, and benzodiazepines
- Medication deactivation kits
- Home medication lock bags
These efforts promote safety, health and wellness for individuals who use drugs or struggle with substance use.
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Regional Recovery Day
Hundreds of participants, including many Chesterfield County staff members, attended the second annual Regional Recovery Day on Wed., Sept. 3, at the Henrico Sports and Events Center. Hosted by Chesterfield, Henrico, Hanover and the City of Richmond, the free event featured more than 80 vendors as part of a regional community resources fair. The keynote speaker was Dr. Stephen Lloyd, a person in long-term recovery, vice president of the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners and the inspiration behind the main character in the Hulu limited series “Dopesick.” Dr. Lloyd also led a breakout session for criminal justice professionals. The four-hour event included mutual aid groups, Revive! Training and AcuWellness opportunities.
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Social Services is on the Move: Connecting, Educating, and Empowering
Community outreach is a powerful tool for connecting residents with vital services, and Sandra Mattos, the new Senior Benefit Programs Specialist – Community Outreach, is leading the way. In August and September, she participated in numerous events—including Back-to-School nights, food pantry distributions, cultural celebrations—where she provided on-the-spot support, answered questions and scheduled follow-up appointments. Her presence helped bridge the gap between residents and the services they need, from applying for benefits, to accessing food, housing and utility assistance.
In just one month, Ms. Mattos scheduled 45 one-on-one appointments, demonstrating her commitment to removing barriers and streamlining access to care. Her outreach calendar continues to grow, with regular visits to schools, libraries and community centers across Chesterfield and Colonial Heights. Through her compassionate approach and deep knowledge of available resources, Ms. Mattos is not only helping individuals navigate complex systems—she’s empowering them to take meaningful steps toward stability and self-sufficiency.
Career and Resource Fair Connects Jobseekers with Opportunity
On September 10, 2025, the Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Department of Social Services, in partnership with Chesterfield Economic Development, hosted a vibrant Career and Resource Fair open to the public. The event welcomed 87 jobseekers and 12 employers representing a range of industries, including manufacturing, retail, healthcare, government, and education.
We’re proud to share that 50% of participating employers reported anticipating hires as a direct result of the fair. Events like this highlight our ongoing commitment to connecting residents with meaningful employment opportunities and job-readiness resources—made possible through strong community partnerships.
All residents (18+) of Chesterfield County and the City of Colonial Heights have access to free employment services and programs, including but not limited to:
- Career assessments
- Interview preparation
- Job fairs
- Job search assistance
- Help with online applications
- Referrals to community resources
- Resume assistance
- Soft skills training
If you're interested in employment services, please complete a self-referral. You can also follow us on Facebook at Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Social Services | Chesterfield VA | Facebook.
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Skip the Trip to Apply for Benefits
Apply online, check status, or submit documentation to commonhelp.virginia.gov
Apply by phone 1-855-635-4370
Mail or drop off documents to one of our offices:
- P.O. Box 430 Chesterfield, VA 23832
- 9501 Lucy Corr Circle Chesterfield, VA 23832
Fax documents to 804-748-1824 or 804-717-6294
Email documents to DSSDocs@chesterfield.gov *screenshot pictures are acceptable
Please include a case number on all correspondence.
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Connected and Caring Team
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