Descendant and Family Stewardship Initiative

The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund’s Descendant and Family Stewardship Initiative, administered by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, is a specialized funding program designed to support descendant-led and family-led organizations in preserving and managing African American historic places. This initiative reflects the funder’s commitment to recognizing and empowering communities to steward their heritage through a collaborative, well-resourced, and long-term approach. It is supported by the Mellon Foundation’s Humanities in Place program, emphasizing sustainable and culturally grounded historic preservation. The initiative is structured as a unique, two-year partnership where each of the five grantees will receive $200,000 in funding to implement a Stewardship Project. These projects are developed collaboratively with the Action Fund and can include services such as architectural and design planning, community engagement, program development, limited capital improvements, and strategic fundraising planning. In addition to funding, grantees receive ongoing consultation and capacity-building support tailored to their needs, helping them manage their sites more effectively and promote broader preservation practices. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and those working in partnership with eligible fiscal sponsors. Examples include historic sites, museums, genealogical societies, accredited colleges, and public bodies like local preservation offices. Applicants must either own the historic property or have written permission from the owner to carry out the project. Past recipients of financial support from the National Trust or the Action Fund are eligible if all previous grant conditions were met. The initiative emphasizes inclusivity and respect, requiring grantees to adhere to nondiscrimination policies. The application process consists of two steps: a Letter of Intent (LOI) due by February 24, 2025, and, for those invited to proceed, a full proposal due by May 8, 2025. All applications must be submitted through the National Trust’s online grant portal. The LOI is used to assess eligibility and preliminary interest, while the full application process includes personalized support from Action Fund staff to guide applicants in preparing competitive submissions. Award announcements are expected by July 2025. Projects must align with preservation standards and cannot include lobbying activities, construction of new structures, acquisition of property, or entertainment expenses. Up to 10% of the grant can be used for indirect costs. The grantor must approve all consultants and be acknowledged in all project materials. Evaluation criteria include the historic significance of the site, the applicant’s readiness and commitment, local support, and potential for long-term preservation impact. For assistance, applicants can contact actionfundgrants@savingplaces.org. The main contact address is the National Trust for Historic Preservation, 600 14th Street NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20005. General inquiries may also be directed to info@savingplaces.org or 202-588-6000.