Born in the quaint town of South Hill, Virginia, Irvin W. Hayes was a man with dreams that transcended boundaries. From excelling in a Math-Science curriculum at East High School to majoring in Physics at Virginia State University, his brilliance led him to work at The National Acceleration Lab and eventually to a distinguished 35-year service with the CIA.
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Whether coaching youth basketball, baseball, or football or participating in the Herndon High School Homecoming Parade, Irv’s presence was a testament to his dedication and love for his community. The Herndon Festival was a yearly highlight for him, a time to reconnect, laugh, and celebrate with friends and family. Here In Herndon, Irv, a stranger in a new land, transformed into a cornerstone of the community.
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Irv’s unique experiences and wisdom became a beacon for many. His opinions were not just sought after—they were revered. As an elected board member of the Sterling Golf Club and a lifetime member of the Optimist Club in Herndon, he cemented his legacy as a stalwart supporter of youth and community initiatives.
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Irv’s heart always echoed the values of service, commitment, and community. The Hayes Pioneer Heritage Foundation stands today as a monument to those values, committed to supporting youth programs and assisting those in need, ensuring that the spirit of Irvin W. Hayes lives on.
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In Irv, we see the embodiment of a pioneer—someone who left the comfort of familiarity to carve out a new path, built bridges where there were none, and whose legacy is a testament to the power of community, dedication, and dreams.
OUR MISSION
The Hayes Pioneer Heritage Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of the pioneers who helped build our community. Our mission is to educate and inspire the next generation of pioneers.