Preserving Our Heritage: National Trust for Canada Resolutions for 2024
As we usher in the New Year, the National Trust for Canada is setting ambitious resolutions to continue our pivotal role in preserving and promoting our nation’s rich cultural heritage. With a diverse array of projects and initiatives on the horizon, 2024 promises to be a year of growth, engagement, and innovation. Let’s explore a few of the Trust’s resolutions and how you can join in these impactful endeavours.
Young Canada Works, deadline January 19
The deadline is fast approaching for submissions to our Young Canada Works. YCW is a shared initiative with the Department of Canadian Heritage that creates meaningful youth employment in the built heritage sectors by funding employers who offer student summer jobs. Heritage organizations and sites across the country are invited to submit proposals to hire summer students passionate about preserving our cultural legacy. This initiative not only provides invaluable experience for young professionals but also ensures that our heritage sites are cared for by the next generation of custodians. The deadline for submissions is Friday, January 19.
Announcing our latest Launch Pad Coaching Grant Recipients
Through the generous support of donors, the National Trust’s Launch Pad Coaching Grants give community organizations access to a team of seasoned professionals. Together, we find solutions to unlock the potential of their historic places. These grants aim to provide expert mentorship to emerging initiatives, and saving historic places ensuring they receive the guidance and resources necessary to flourish and make a lasting impact on our cultural landscape.
Our most recent coaching grant recipients are two BC heritage organizations. St. Andrews United Church in Kaslo and St. Andrews Lodge Historical and Cultural Society in Qualicum Beach will receive support to boost their fundraising efforts and work toward a sustainable future.
Meet the new recipients
Does your project need sustained assistance? See if a Launch Pad Coaching Grant would be right for your organization. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and reviewed monthly.
Next Great Save launches in time for Heritage Week in February
Heritage Week (February 19-25) is a time to celebrate and reflect on the cultural tapestry that defines Canada. In response to the success of last year and the remarkable need that exists out there, the Trust is excited to launch the second edition of the Next Great Save competition. The call for applications opens on February 19, 2024.
Last year, the 10 finalists were showcased as gathering spaces, visitor centres or cultural hubs, and it was a joy to see Canadians rally around these significant places and make the case for their future. We learned that awareness grew for the significant role that heritage places play in communities across Canada.
We’re thrilled to be working again this year with Ecclesiastical Insurance as Title Sponsor for the competition. Their generous contribution of $75,000, coupled with their valuable expertise, exemplifies their commitment to community and conservation. Their participation on the Jury for the Next Great Save enhances the competition with unique insights. The Grand Prize, a substantial $50,000, awaits the winner, with $10,000 for the second place and $5,000 for the third.
Registered charities or non-profits are invited to submit applications starting February 19. Groups need to have project plans for their historic place that focus on protecting, adapting, renewing, or improving a heritage place, and inspire us all in the process. The role of heritage places to address current issues like climate change, diversity and inclusion, and housing is particularly important to the National Trust.
Recognizing the pivotal role of historic places in addressing contemporary issues, a distinguished jury of experts will rigorously evaluate the applications and select 10-12 finalists. However, the ultimate decision rests in the hands of the public, who will cast their votes online. Last year, the competition garnered 200,000 votes from participants across Canada and beyond.
Let’s surpass that remarkable turnout this year and demonstrate to Canadians the unifying power of heritage in bringing communities together!
APT-National Trust Joint Conference with CAHP this November
The APT-National Trust Joint Conference 2024: Building Bridges (with Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals) is slated to take place from November 12-16 in vibrant Montréal, Québec. This conference will provide a platform for heritage professionals, enthusiasts, and experts to exchange ideas, share best practices, and explore new frontiers in heritage preservation.
2023 Conference attendees: Don’t forget to use your exclusive access to “A Year of Learning”, the Trust’s on-demand library of webinars and past conference sessions.
Coming soon, call for papers.
Members Corner
Members, keep an eye on your inboxes, you’ll be receiving the next digital issue of Locale this month.
Get involved
As we embrace the opportunities and challenges that 2024 presents, the National Trust for Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving our cultural heritage. Whether you are a heritage professional, a community advocate, or simply someone passionate about our shared history, there are numerous ways to get involved. If you’re not a member, please consider joining our movement.
We’d love for you to stay in the know. Please consider signing up for our monthly e-newsletter or become a member to stay updated on these projects and contribute to the ongoing journey of safeguarding our cultural legacy for generations to come.
