Volunteers are an essential part of the Harrisburg Area YMCA. Their time, energy, and selflessness strengthen our programs and expand what we’re able to offer. Join us in thanking them for showing up, supporting our mission, and making a real difference.
Association Office: Mark Reilly
Mark Reilly has dedicated nearly two decades to the YMCA, starting as a West Shore YMCA Branch Board member and joining the Area Board in 2016. He has served as the Strategic Planning Committee Chair, a fundraiser, and a steadfast supporter of the YMCA mission. As Strategic Planning Committee Chair, Mark guided every aspect of strategic planning — developing structure, timelines, events, communications, and budgets — while ensuring staff and community voices were central to the process. His leadership transformed the planning from a top-down approach to a “community-up” model, empowering front-line staff and participants to shape priorities and take ownership of execution. A lifelong advocate for youth, Mark has supported his children and countless youth activities, athletics, and events. His optimism, charisma, and dedication are evident in every endeavor, yet he consistently deflects attention to the YMCA mission and staff. Mark’s commitment, energy, and inclusive leadership make him an invaluable asset to the YMCA and the community it serves.
Camp Curtin YMCA: Sensei Howard Alexander
Sensei Howard has shown exceptional dedication as a Judo Instructor at the Harrisburg Area YMCA, teaching not just the sport but life lessons in discipline, confidence, respect, perseverance, and integrity. His classes foster teamwork, personal growth, and character development, reflecting the YMCA’s mission and values. He models humility, dedication, and service, inspiring students, peers, and the community. Sensei Howard meets youth where they are, adapts lessons to individual needs, and encourages responsibility both on and off the mat. He emphasizes respect, honesty, and accountability while creating a safe and engaging environment. Volunteering at both Camp Curtin and West Shore branches, he keeps youth engaged, provides leadership opportunities, and extends the YMCA’s impact through community events, demonstrations, and tournaments. His passion, innovation, and commitment make him an invaluable contributor to the YMCA, helping youth grow in skill, character, and confidence while promoting the YMCA mission throughout the community.
Center for Healthy Living: Paige Szarowski
Paige serves on the YMCA Center for Healthy Living Community Advisory Board (CAB) and consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication. She makes every effort to attend meetings, answer calls and emails, and participate in events, representing the YCHL with professionalism and care. Paige is often the face of the YCHL at events, reliably showing up when others cannot and ensuring our programs are visible and understood in the community. She is compassionate, kind, and respectful, fully embracing her responsibilities as a CAB member. Beyond attendance, Paige advocates for YCHL programs, raises awareness of our EBHI offerings, and encourages referrals from colleagues at Select Physical Therapy. Her commitment and consistency make her an invaluable supporter, and she spreads the YMCA mission in every interaction. Paige’s presence, advocacy, and care strengthen both our programs and our connection to the community.
East Shore Branch: Kate Kornucik
Kate has shown remarkable dedication to the YMCA as a board member and active participant in our race series. An avid runner, she competes alongside her family while helping promote and market events through engaging video content. Her feedback and contributions have enhanced the quality of our races, and her video appearances inspire participants and foster community engagement. Beyond races, Kate played a key role in launching the East Shore YMCA’s inaugural golf scramble, demonstrating her commitment to the YMCA’s growth and success. She also leverages her professional network to secure crucial fundraising and sponsorship opportunities, supporting the sustainability and vitality of YMCA programs. Kate’s multifaceted involvement, energy, and passion make her an invaluable asset to the organization. Her leadership, creativity, and dedication reflect her deep commitment to the YMCA’s mission and positively impact both the community and the people we serve.
Friendship Branch: Ainsworth Team
Tyler and Herman serve on the committee that organizes the Clays Classic clay pigeon shoot for the Friendship YMCA. As representatives of our Title Sponsor, Ainsworth, they dedicate time and expertise to planning this annual event, which has grown into a major fundraiser over the past four years. They play a key role in recruiting sponsors and teams, demonstrating commitment to community building and fostering strong relationships. Their leadership ensures the event’s success, allowing the YMCA to expand its impact in the community. Funds raised support children and families in need by sending kids to camp, providing swim lessons, and enrolling them in programs like Youth Basketball. The Clays Classic is more substantial and more impactful because of Tyler and Herman’s dedication, and Ainsworth’s ongoing support. Their efforts exemplify service, leadership, and a passion for helping others, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those served by the Friendship YMCA.
Northern Dauphin County Branch: Cole Davis
Cole has shown exceptional dedication as an assistant swim team coach, consistently going above and beyond for our YMCA swimmers. He leads multiple weekly practices, motivating athletes to reach their full potential, and supports them at every meet with guidance, encouragement, and mentorship. Cole fosters both athletic growth and personal development, particularly among older swimmers, drawing on his own competitive experience in high school and college. He exemplifies the YMCA’s core values — caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility — and encourages swimmers to demonstrate them in and out of the pool. Cole’s leadership has created a positive team culture where swimmers improve skills, practice sportsmanship, and grow as individuals. Through his dedication, mentorship, and advocacy, Cole not only strengthens the swim team but also advances the YMCA’s mission, inspiring youth to excel as athletes and as members of the community. His impact is lasting and deeply valued.
West Shore Branch: Heather Fringer
Heather has shown outstanding dedication as a volunteer for the YMCA developmental volleyball class. Always punctual and ready to help, she went above and beyond to ensure each class ran smoothly — setting up equipment, supporting coaches, and giving individual attention to kids who needed encouragement. Her reliability, selflessness, and proactive approach made her an invaluable part of the program. Heather’s natural leadership, calm demeanor, and positive energy create a welcoming environment where children feel supported and motivated to learn volleyball skills. She models the YMCA core values — caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility — while inspiring kids and fellow volunteers alike. Her involvement strengthened the program, helping children build confidence, teamwork, and skills, while positively impacting families and the community. Heather’s passion for volleyball and the YMCA’s mission, along with her enthusiasm and initiative, have made her a true ambassador, enhancing the program and encouraging families to engage with the YMCA.
