|
Chesterfield Human Services Quarterly Newsletter
April 2026 |
|
Dr. Worsley serves as the Deputy County Administrator for Human Services
 Where did March go? It has flown by, and it goes without saying that we’ve experienced just about every season over the last couple of months—sometimes all in one day, and for several days in a row. Where else but Virginia?
March was Women’s History Month, which originally began in 1978. Spring has now officially arrived and is visible everywhere you look, with new buds emerging and vibrant colors brightening our days. Earth Day will be celebrated on April 22, so be sure to get outside and enjoy the beauty around you.
April also highlights Workplace Violence Prevention Awareness, reminding us of the importance of safety and well-being in our work environments. Looking ahead, May is ALS Awareness Month—a time to raise awareness, support research and honor the ALS community.
As we wrap up the first quarter of 2026 and move into a season full of activities and programs, it’s clear that our success depends on all of us working together and staying connected. Thank you for everything you do to help make this happen.
You can always visit our Human Services page on the county website for more information about programs and services.
|
|
Community Corrections Services
|
|
Community Corrections Services Expands Support Through Opioid Abatement Authority Funding
Community Corrections Services (CCS) is proud to announce several new initiatives made possible through funding from the Opioid Abatement Authority (OAA). These efforts strengthen CCS’s commitment to supporting individuals on their path to recovery by increasing access to resources, safety tools, and essential services.
 |
|
24/7 Naloxone Access
To promote harm reduction and save lives, CCS has installed a Naloxone (Narcan) dispenser box outside of the Community Corrections Services building. This provides clients with 24-hour access to life‑saving medication, ensuring support is available whenever it’s needed.
|
|
|
Housing and Transportation Assistance
With the help of OAA funding, CCS clients may now apply for one month of recovery housing assistance and transportation support. These resources help remove barriers that can make early recovery especially challenging. An application is required, and staff are available to help clients through the process.
“Hope on Hangers” Clothing Closet
CCS Peer Recovery Specialist Melody Force has launched Hope on Hangers, a clothing closet designed to support clients who are rebuilding their lives. The closet offers everyday clothing as well as professional attire for interviews, helping clients feel prepared and confident as they work toward employment and stability.
Peer Recovery Support Groups
Recognizing that recovery is not a solitary journey, Melody also leads Peer Recovery 101, a support group open to all CCS clients. The group provides a welcoming space to access resources, receive education and build community with others navigating similar challenges.
These expanded services reflect CCS’s ongoing mission to empower clients with the tools, encouragement and support needed for long-term recovery.
|
|
Therapeutic Recreation Month
February was Therapeutic Recreation Month, and it kicked off with a fun-filled carnival on Monday, February 2, from 4:30–7:00 p.m. Aging and Disability Resources partnered with Parks and Recreation to host the first Therapeutic Recreation Month Carnival at Beulah Recreation Center.
The event welcomed 81 participants and featured 15 vendors—an incredible success for the inaugural year. Best of all, the carnival was free for all to attend. Guests enjoyed music, face painting, popcorn and opportunities to connect with a wide range of helpful community resources.
|
Spring Senior Law Clinic
The Spring Senior Law Clinic was held on Tuesday, March 10, where it proudly served 18 individuals by assisting them in obtaining essential life‑planning documents.
Chesterfield County Aging and Disability Resources partnered with The Span Center to bring this event to the community. The event was deeply grateful to Sands Anderson for providing pro bono attorneys, along with volunteers from Christian & Barton (retiree), Dominion Energy and the University of Richmond School of Law. Their dedication, professionalism and commitment to service helped strengthen our community and made this clinic a true success.
We look forward to serving even more residents at our next clinic this summer—stay tuned for details!
|
Lynne Wingfield Receives Prestigious Pat Cullen Award
The Chesterfield–Colonial Heights Positive Parenting Coalition recently held its annual session, themed “The Impact of Homelessness on Our Youth.” During the event, the Coalition honored Lynne Wingfield with the prestigious Pat Cullen Award.
Pat Cullen served as the Prevention Services Manager for the Chesterfield Department of Mental Health Support Services for more than 30 years. A pioneer in developing and implementing research-based practices, she shaped prevention efforts that supported countless children and families across the region.
Lynne Wingfield, CFit Community Resource Analyst and retired educator, has been an extraordinary force in advancing the wellness of children from birth to age five in Chesterfield County. Her leadership and vision have significantly expanded the reach and impact of The Basics, a countywide initiative focused on fostering social–emotional development and school readiness in young children. CFit Community has also provided funding to distribute Basics Kits through community organizations, ensuring that more families have access to tools that support early learning.
Lynne’s dedication and passion continue to strengthen community connections and expand healthy opportunities for families throughout Chesterfield County. Her recognition with the Pat Cullen Award reflects her long-standing commitment to collaboration, early childhood wellness, and creating a thriving foundation for our youngest residents.
|
American Red Cross Community Partner Award
Chesterfield County and Chesterfield Central Library, were recently honored with the Community Partner Award from the American Red Cross. Kelly Dale, Red Cross Account Manager from Community Engagement and Resources, and Jen Shepley, Community Services Manager for Chesterfield Public Libraries, accepted the award on behalf of both departments.
In 2025, Central Library hosted 13 blood drives, welcoming 476 donors and collecting 434 units—potentially saving up to 1,302 lives. The award reads: “On behalf of the American Red Cross Capital Chapter, we want to thank you for your service and dedication to enhancing the lives of others in 2025.”
|
 My Chesterfield Academy
Congratulations to the My Chesterfield Academy Class of 2025! This year’s cohort includes 15 graduates representing nine countries of origin and one U.S. territory. With this group, the academy now celebrates a total of 83 graduates representing 30 countries of origin and one U.S. territory.
The graduates span a variety of roles—residents, business owners, community workers and professionals across multiple sectors. What unites them is their shared commitment to strengthening belonging and community in Chesterfield.
This academy is made possible through the steadfast partnership of the Asian and Latino Solidarity Alliance of Central Virginia (ALSA).
Teen Summit RVA
Teen Summit RVA returned on March 14th at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, bringing together high school students from across the region for a transformational day of learning, leadership, and connection. This year’s theme, “Limitless,” embodied the spirit of boundless potential within every young person. Limitless: Unleashing Potential. Breaking Barriers. Discovering Purpose.
The theme encouraged teens to boldly explore who they are, embrace their gifts, and confidently pursue new experiences—without fear, without restrictions, and without limits. Throughout the event, students were inspired to think freely, challenge assumptions, and recognize that their opportunities are as expansive as their imaginations.
Chesterfield County played a central role in the development and success of Teen Summit RVA. Under the leadership of Chloe Carter, Youth Community Engagement Coordinator, Chesterfield has become an anchor partner in shaping the Summit’s vision and execution.
Regional Youth Advisory Council is a team of high school students representing Richmond, Henrico, Chesterfield and Hanover. These young leaders help design the event from a youth lens—offering ideas, reviewing sessions, giving feedback and shaping the energy and authenticity of the Summit.
 |
Dr. Casey, Chesterfield County Administrator, Connects with Academy Alumni
Academy alumni from Chesterfield’s signature programs—including the Government Citizens Academy, My Chesterfield Academy, the Police Academy, and others—gathered for an evening of connection, conversation, and community with County Administrator Dr. Joe Casey. The event featured dedicated networking time, giving alumni an opportunity to reconnect and share their experiences across programs.
Dr. Casey provided updates on current county initiatives and offered a look ahead at upcoming projects, followed by an engaging question-and-answer session. Attendees expressed their appreciation for his thoughtful leadership and for the county’s continued commitment to programs that help residents better understand local government and departmental operations. They also extended warm well-wishes to Dr. Casey as he approaches his upcoming retirement.
|
|
|
Pine Forest Intermediate Care Residents Visit with Therapy Dogs
March was full of meaningful connection and collaboration across Mental Health Support Services (MHSS) programs. At our Pine Forest Intermediate Care Facility (ICF), residential staff partnered with a local therapist who specializes in training therapy dogs. Each month, individuals receiving services at Pine Forest enjoy dedicated time with these therapy dogs—an experience that brings comfort, joy and companionship. The photos from the March 11, 2026 visit capture just how much the individuals enjoyed spending time with their furry visitors.
Annual Partners Recognition Dinner
The following day, March 12, 2026, Mental Health hosted the Annual Partners Recognition Dinner, an event that honors the community partners whose support strengthens our services and enhances the wellbeing of those we serve. This year, six outstanding partners were recognized for their commitment and collaboration:
- Pastor Nathan Decker, Chester United Methodist Church
- Jennifer Shepley, Manager of Community Services, Chesterfield Public Library
- Lawrence Miller (Labor Crew Chief) and John “Billy” Cooke (Chief), Chesterfield Parks and Recreation
- Shawn Frasier, Pinnacle Health Informatics
- Margaret Long, Richmond Program Director, Little Hands
- Sheriff Karl Leonard and Kerri Rhodes, Director of Behavioral and Mental Health, Chesterfield County Jail
Their contributions help our programs continue delivering high‑quality, compassionate services to our community. We remain grateful for their partnership and continued dedication.
|
|
Together in Giving: How Social Services Staff Supported the Community During the Holiday Season
Although Social Services staff are busy connecting residents with services, their giving continues in support of the community. This past holiday season, Social Services staff came together to support 10 families, including 18 children, through a collaborative effort with the Christmas Mother program. Demonstrating a strong spirit of generosity and community care, staff donated a total of 146 items to help ensure these families experienced a joyful and supported holiday.
In addition to supporting Christmas Mother, the agency also rallied together for an internal goods drive in partnership with Boots on the Ground. Through this effort, staff donated non‑perishable foods, baby items, and toiletries to support individuals and families in need. The drive was a tremendous success and further reflected the giving spirit of Social Services employees, highlighting how the agency extends care not only through its official services but also within the broader community during the holiday season.
This initiative reflects the heart of the department’s mission—creating meaningful, positive experiences for the community we serve. Through teamwork and compassion, staff made a direct impact on local families, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and service beyond day‑to‑day responsibilities. Their efforts exemplify the power of coming together to make a difference when it matters most, setting a strong tone for continuing this spirit of giving into the new year.
Changing Lives Through Connection: Career Fair Leads to Jobs and New Beginnings
Employment Services, in partnership with Economic Development, hosted a Logistics & Warehouse Career Fair on January 14 that delivered meaningful results for job seekers in our community. Before the event, ten participants attended a résumé workshop designed to strengthen their job readiness and boost confidence. During the three-hour career fair, 105 individuals connected with employers, resulting in 20 on-the-spot job offers.
The impact of the event reached even further, creating a life-changing opportunity for one of our Fostering Futures youth. With support from their Social Services Case Manager, they were able to interview and receive a job offer—an inspiring reminder of the importance of ensuring that our direct customers have access to events where preparation, support, and opportunity come together to create real outcomes.
This event reflects the department’s commitment to its strategic goals. By streamlining services and enhancing customer experience, staff demonstrated leadership in action. Attendees experienced five-star service through thoughtful preparation and meaningful employer connections. Collaboration with Economic Development showcased how working together leads to stronger outcomes, while the measurable success of job offers highlights how data-driven efforts positively impact the community. This event stands as a strong example of innovation, service excellence, and results-driven work in action.
|
|
Connected and Caring Team
|
|
|
|
|
