Three residents of Chesterfield were inducted into the county’s Senior Volunteer Hall of Fame at the 43rd annual ceremony held on June 5 at the Career and Technical Center. Robin Hoerber, Peter Plourd, and Wonnease Rhone were selected for the 2025 class, joining a group of 95 others who have been recognized since the Hall of Fame’s inception.
The event celebrated this year’s 16 nominees who collectively provided over 108,000 hours of volunteer service since turning 60. Dr. James Worsley, deputy county administrator for human services, emphasized the importance of their contributions: “Today we gather to honor a group of individuals who remind us that purpose doesn’t retire – it only deepens with time.”
Established in 1982 by Dorothy Charles alongside the Chesterfield Council on Aging and the Board of Supervisors, the Senior Volunteer Hall of Fame recognizes local seniors for outstanding community service. It is now managed by the county’s Office of Aging and Disability Resources.
Andrea Price from VCU Department of Gerontology served as keynote speaker. She highlighted personal experiences with volunteers Frances Christian and her late father John Smith: “Volunteerism is the gift that keeps on giving,” she said.
Robin Hoerber has continued to support blind citizens after retiring from a career with Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired. She has been active at Mt. Pisgah United Methodist Church for three decades and will soon serve as president of a local Lions Club chapter.
Peter Plourd, a Vietnam veteran, actively participates in organizations such as Military Officers of America and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He recently earned recognition for his service during COVID-19 vaccine clinics.
Wonnease Rhone founded Five Loaves, a mobile food pantry launched during COVID-19 to combat hunger in food deserts. She also serves as head usher at St. Paul Baptist Church.
Clover Hill District Supervisor Jessica Schneider praised their efforts: “Your contributions have created a ripple effect… Thank you for your generosity.” The inductees will be recognized with a resolution from the Board of Supervisors on June 25.
