Since 2003, the Washington State Genealogical Society has recognized over 600 outstanding volunteers and teams, nominated by their local society or genealogical organization for their service and dedication. These volunteers are the backbone of their local society, giving their time and expertise, to the organization and the field of genealogy. In the coming months, you will be introduced to each of the 2022 award recipients and learn why they received the 2022 WSGS Outstanding Volunteer and Team Award.

Today we’re introducing Cynthia “Cindy” Fuerst of Yakima, Washington, who was nominated by the Yakima Valley Genealogical Society (YVGS).

Cindy joined YVGS in 1985 “because Cousin Kathy made me do it.” The genealogy bug hit Cindy hard, but she didn’t have to be hospitalized! Cindy volunteered as librarian one day a week and the Thursday night shift at the old YVGS library at First Christian Church in downtown Yakima across from the police department and next door to Shaw & Sons Funeral Home. The night genealogist had to take the money bag over to the night drop box at the funeral home. Such a brave genealogist!  Later, Cindy moved to the coast with husband Kenny and joined the South King County Genealogical Society. During her time there, she was membership chair and greeter while retaining her membership at YVGS. After moving back to Yakima, she started attending meetings again, became a librarian and served two terms as YVGS’s corresponding secretary.

For more information on the WSGS Outstanding Volunteer Award program, visit the Recognition page of the WSGS website or contact Info@wasgs.org. Please type “Volunteer Award” in the subject line.