WAYNESBORO – Waynesboro Area YMCA made headlines recently as the organization was honored with a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and a volunteer was honored for his efforts.
The citation presented by State Rep. Chad Reichard (R-Franklin) lauded the Y for its “monumental efforts” in providing aid to those affected by a fire July 1, 2025, at The Leland at Laurel Run in Waynesboro. The Y served as the emergency evacuation site for the 81 residents and staff of the senior living facility on West Main Street.
Doug Tengler of Waynesboro earned the Cindy Hawbaker Memorial Award, which is presented annually in recognition of volunteer excellence through the United Way of Franklin County. Hawbaker, the former executive director of United Way of Franklin County, was well known for her volunteer work in the community, as well as her work at Hospice, prior to joining United Way, according to Amy Hicks, United Way executive director.
“Volunteers are the backbone of the United Way, and this award recognizes volunteers who demonstrate exemplary service to the United Way and its partner agencies,” she added.
Tengler “has helped strengthen our partnership and outreach not only through the YMCA, but to the Waynesboro community,” noted Hicks. Nominated by Kim Eaton, executive director of the Y, Tengler was described as “someone who gives generously.”
Eaton added that Tengler, a long-time member and daily swimmer at the Y, approached her with a concern that the pool was not open during the lunch hour after she began her role as CEO two years ago.
“He immediately offered to become a certified lifeguard and cover those hours,” Eaton said. “Although he served as a paid staff member for insurance purposes, Doug consistently donated far more to the Y than he ever earned, contributing to numerous projects across the organization.”
Tengler’s commitment extends well beyond aquatics, according to Eaton. “This past summer, he served as a volunteer reader for the United Way’s Summer Reading Program. When his assigned reading partner became unavailable, Doug willingly took on the full responsibility, reading to the children for an entire hour each week.
“In addition, Doug and another Y member funded a special outing for the entire YMCA summer camp, providing the opportunity for all campers to attend a movie at the Waynesboro Theatre. He made this contribution quietly and without recognition, purely out of generosity and his desire to give children a memorable experience,” she added.
“Doug also conceived the idea of establishing the Y as a satellite site for the United Way’s VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program. He recruited volunteer tax preparers, identified operational needs and helped guide the planning process. With his leadership, the Y secured a grant from The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, allowing us to purchase Chromebooks, a printer and essential office supplies.
“Doug has personally committed to funding the program moving forward and will serve as a volunteer both at the Y and at the United Way’s main office. His passion lies in supporting low-income families by ensuring they receive accurate tax preparation and full access to eligible credits and rebates,” Eaton said. “Doug’s work has filled an important gap in community services and will have a lasting, positive impact on local residents.”
Tengler has been “an invaluable presence in our organization,” Eaton noted. “With his background as a CPA, his experience serving on nonprofit boards and his leadership in multiple organizations, Doug has become one of my most trusted sounding boards.
“When I face a challenge, Doug listens carefully, asks thoughtful questions and offers honest, practical guidance. He doesn’t sugarcoat things — and anyone who has sat in this role knows how rare and valuable that really is.
“His service to the Y extends far beyond monetary donations and advice. He also serves on our finance committee and brings joy to our building in the simplest ways,” added Eaton. “Watching children light up when they recognize Doug — waving, smiling and running over for high-fives — is a powerful reminder that impact isn’t always loud or formal. Sometimes, it’s just about showing up consistently and caring deeply.
“Nonprofit organizations survive because of generosity. We rely on financial support to keep the lights on and the doors open. But equally vital are the gifts of time, talent, and expertise — the kinds of contributions that allow programs to grow, strengthen and truly serve their communities. Doug is rare in that he gives in every one of these ways. He shows up, he gives back, and he does it quietly, consistently and without expecting anything in return.
“What I appreciate most about Doug is his willingness to step forward with solutions, not just concerns, and to do so with kindness and integrity. He is thoughtful, steady and deeply committed to making the Y and our community better.”
