Charitable Giving Preserves History
Our rich history is well represented in how Americans conduct business, worship and run our local governments. Historical preservation helps us recall that blood, sweat and tears invested by our founding fathers. Along with the people that have made a difference in how we have lived our lives from then on, historical landmarks where notable events occurred are also very important.
Much of the historical landmarks in Pennsylvania and throughout the middle colonies are residential homes, most of them once owned by some of the most important figures in the history of Pennsylvania. However, as years pass, these structures succumbed to the aging and and many are in desparate need of repair.
In order to maintain and assure that these important locations remain in relatively good condition, the government has set up grants for the historical preservation of PA history so that the future generations are still able to appreciate the original look and feel of the structures that have special places in our country’s history books.
National Trust Preservation Funds
National Trust Preservation Funds gives public agencies and non-profit organizations the opportunity to acquire emergency funds for the purpose of historical landmarks preservation. The money acquired from this may be utilized to consult professionals like engineers and architects with regards to the steps that need to be taken in the preservation of these homes. The grants given can range from $500 to $5,000 or more.
Johanna Favrot Fund for Historic Preservation
The Johanna Favrot Fund For Historic Preservation provides grants between $2,500 and $10,000 for projects geared for preservation. Individuals as well as for-profit businesses would have to apply for funds for the preservation of a national historic landmark to be eligible. Education programs and professional consultations may be incorporated into the project.
Cynthia Woods Mitchel Fund for Historic Interiors
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Fund for Historic Interiors provides grant funding for public agencies as well as for not for profit Philadelphia businesses. This agency provides the needed funding for the purpose of preserving or restoring the interiors of a historic building or homes. Individuals and businesses can also ask for funding if they are working for a certain project that deals with a national historic landmark. Possible projects could include communications materials, professional advice, and education programs.
Partners in the Field Challenge Grants
The Partners in the Field Challenge Grants is a program that was instigated by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. This program provides grants for restoring as well as preserving historic homes and buildings. The grants are funded from a gift from the Robert W. Wilson Charitable Trust of $5 million, matched by local foundations and donors living in the recipient community.
Preserve America Grant Program
The Preserve America Grant Program provides funding for the conservation of important historic landmarks, which are part of a complementary grant program. The grants are not available to individuals, businesses, and non-profits but only to neighborhoods and communities that have been elected by Preserve America. They can be used for education programs, marketing ventures, and preservation documentation and research.
The local government of Pennsylvania, along with that of the entire country, is also providing tax deductions for non profit organizations in order to further come up with additional funding. These along with charitable giving in Philadelphia should be sufficient enough to preserve the rich history that the country holds through its deep-rooted homes and structure.
