About VNH

Board of Directors - Don Chesnel

Don Chesnel is a New Hampshire native who has been involved in volunteerism programs for over 35 years in the Granite State. His primary focus for over two decades involved participating, managing and coordinating volunteer work for the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, a nationally recognized fraternal organization that has approximately one million members. Don joined the Elks in 1975 and has chaired numerous lodge and state committees. He has served as Lodge President, State President, District Deputy and as a National Committeeman for Government Relations. He currently is the State Elks Government Relations Chair and enjoys the distinction of being the only Honorary Life Member in the Rochester Elks.

In the late 1990’s, Mr. Chesnel made a decision to expand his knowledge in regards to other volunteer programs and activities within New Hampshire by becoming involved as a member of the planning committee for the Governor’s Conference on Volunteerism, a yearly volunteer management seminar offering a variety of workshops in Concord, New Hampshire. He served on this committee for a number of years. In addition, he has served on the planning committee for the Spirit of New Hampshire Volunteer Awards Program. Don also joined the New Hampshire Association of Volunteer Administrators (NHAVA) in 2000, has been a board member for over eight years and is currently serving as their Treasurer.

Donald was a career federal employee for the Department of the Navy. After graduation from high school, Don was accepted into a technical job skills training program to become a marine electrician starting in 1966. He progressed through many levels of advancement and studies to eventually become the Resource Manager for the Electrical /Electronics Group in the Production Department at the Shipyard. He retired in 2005 with 38 years of service and still maintains a membership in the Federal Managers Association.

Don has been married for 44 years to his wife Joan. They have 3 daughters and 5 grandchildren. Don and Joan were born in Rochester, New Hampshire and still reside in the Lilac City. They both enjoy family, civic and volunteer activities, traveling, reading and meeting new people.

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