Submissions Now Open for the 2026 Andrea Niehoff Goodson Volunteer of the Year Award

CommunityHuman InterestGeneral News ArticlePress Release

Hanover, PA – Main Street Hanover and the Christmas in Hanover Committee are now accepting nominations for the 2026 Andrea Niehoff Goodson Volunteer of the Year Award, an annual recognition honoring individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication, service, and commitment to the Hanover community.
Established in honor of Andrea Niehoff Goodson, Hanover’s ultimate community cheerleader and Santa’s best elf, this award celebrates volunteers who embody the same passion, leadership, and community spirit that Andrea shared throughout her years of service.
Through her leadership of the Hanover Christmas Committee, Andrea helped transform Hanover into a magical holiday destination year after year. Her dedication preserved cherished traditions, including the historic Santa Cabin, a Hanover tradition spanning more than 85 years, and the annual Christmas Parade, which welcomed a record-breaking 2,600 children in 2022.
Though Andrea’s passing on April 3, 2023, left a tremendous void in the Hanover community, her legacy continues through the countless volunteers who dedicate their time and talents to making Hanover a special place. The Andrea Niehoff Goodson Volunteer of the Year Award ensures that her spirit of service, joyful leadership, and commitment to bringing people together continues to be recognized and celebrated.
“We are excited to once again recognize a volunteer who represents the heart of Hanover,” said the Christmas in Hanover Committee. “This award is a tribute to Andrea’s legacy and a celebration of the individuals who give their time, energy, and passion to strengthen our community.”
Nominate Someone Who Inspires!
Community members are encouraged to nominate an outstanding volunteer who has made a meaningful impact through their service to downtown Hanover, local organizations, community events, or initiatives that bring people together.
Nominations for the 2026 Andrea Niehoff Goodson Volunteer of the Year Award are open July 1 through September 1, 2026. The recipient will be announced in October and honored as the Grand Marshal of the 2026 Christmas in Hanover Parade and recognized during the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Award Application Checklist:
  • Nomination Form: Tell us about your nominee and their contributions to the community.
  • Narrative (250 words): Share how they have made an impact through volunteerism and service.
  • Photos (Up to 5): At least one photo is required—show them in action!
  • Optional: Letters of support or audio/visual materials highlighting their work are welcome.
To learn more or submit a nomination, visit Mainstreethanover.org/volunteer.
About the Christmas Committee
The Christmas in Hanover Committee is a volunteer-led group dedicated to preserving and enhancing the magic of the holiday season in downtown Hanover, Pennsylvania. A program of Main Street Hanover, the committee works year-round to create festive, inclusive, and memorable experiences that bring joy to families, celebrate local traditions, and foster a sense of community pride.
Best known for managing cherished events like the annual Santa Parade, the lighting of the town tree, and the historic Santa Cabin, a Hanover tradition for over 85 years, the committee ensures that the spirit of the holiday shines brightly in the heart of town.

About Main Street Hanover
 

The mission of Main Street Hanover is to expand the economic capacity of downtown Hanover, thus improving the business environment, enhancing the quality of place, and increasing community synergy.

 

Main Street Hanover is a 501c3 non-profit & proceeds benefit the revitalization of Downtown Hanover.

Submissions Now Open for the 2026 Andrea Niehoff Goodson Volunteer of the Year Award