Joyce Makes A Difference In Chester: Patch Community Leader

CHESTER, NJ — Without community leaders, Chester wouldn’t hum along nearly as smoothly as it does. We’d miss their contributions in big and small ways.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to recognize these often unsung community leaders and celebrate their contributions.

This submission comes from Eileen Specchio, a Mendham and Chester Patch reader who nominated Joyce Casillo.

How do you know this community leader?

Neighbor, organizer, chairperson, president of organizations

What does this community leader do?

Founded and still active member of Chester Lioness Lions Club, Coordinates many of the subcommittees, is Chair of Valley Place Book Club, and Service to multiple organizations.

Why do you believe the community leader should be recognized or honored?

Joyce is a strong leader and advocate for many service organizations. She initiated the Chester Lioness Club to provide hands-on services to communities in need in 1985 and was chartered as Chester Lioness Lions Club, an independent club in 2020.

For 38 years, Joyce has led this volunteer service organization. The service organizations supported during the past year includes: Vision Loss Alliance of NJ, Homeless Solutions, Community Hope, Camp Marcella, Chester Mendham and Long Valley Food Banks, Morris County Correctional Facility, Jersey Battered Women Service, Operation Jersey Cares, Matheny School and Hospital, Family Promise and Chester Area Senior Housing to name a few.

This is just a sample of the organizations served through these 38 years. Joyce has been the constant presence and leader for all these years. She also supports other community activities like serving at the Chester Food Bank and leading a book club.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the community hero?

Joyce Casillo is a dedicated compassionate leader and advocate for providing hands-on service to many communities in need and has persevered in initiating and developing the Chester Lioness Lions Club for over 38 years!

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.

Know a community leader who deserves a shout-out?

Nominate them here.