The Preserve America Stewards Recognition Program: Nomination Information

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIORBUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENTWASHINGTON, D.C. 20240www.blm.gov October 29, 2008 In Reply Refer To:8100 (172) P EMS TRANSMISSION 11/05/2008Information Bulletin No. 2009-017 To:                   AFOs                         Attn:   Volunteer Coordinators, Cultural Leads, Heritage Education LeadsFrom:               Chief, Division of Education, Interpretation, and PartnershipsSubject:           The “Preserve America Stewards” Recognition Program:  Nomination Information The purpose of this Information Bulletin is to publicize the new “Preserve America Stewards” recognition program.  The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP), the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), and other partner agencies are implementing this initiative on behalf of the White House in order to recognize stewardship programs that have demonstrated successful use of volunteer time and a commitment to caring for our nation’s cultural heritage.The Preserve America Stewards designation will be granted to eligible entities with volunteer stewardship programs that:• provide individual volunteers with opportunities to contribute in direct and tangible ways to the       preservation, protection, and promotion of historic properties;• address an otherwise unfilled need in heritage preservation through the use of volunteer efforts; and• demonstrate innovative and creative use of volunteer assistance in areas such as youth involvement, volunteer training, public education, and public/private partnerships.Prospective Preserve America Stewards programs may apply (self-nominate) to be recognized at the national level using the application form and materials available on the Preserve America Stewards website at  http://www.preserveamerica.gov/stewards.html.  Government entities (Federal, Tribal, State, and local), non-profit organizations, and businesses are eligible to apply.  Applications are accepted at any time; however, the applicant’s stewardship program must have been in existence for at least one full year prior to submission of the application.  When an application is approved by the ACHP and DOI, the name of the applicant is added to a list pending the next announcement of designated Preserve America Stewards.  Announcement of designated Preserve America Stewards will take place several times a year and may be made by official letter or at a public event.  Bureau offices are encouraged to submit nominations to recognize their outstanding volunteer organizations, and  are also encouraged to make their volunteer and partner entities aware of this new opportunity for recognition.   The Division of Education, Interpretation, and Partnerships will draw attention to designated Stewards with connections to BLM by showcasing them on the Adventures in the Past, Volunteers, and Learning Landscapes web pages.Requests for specific program information should be directed to Druscilla Null of the ACHP Office of Preservation Initiatives at (202) 606-8532 or dnull@achp.gov.   If you have questions regarding BLM’s involvement in the program, please contact the BLM Preservation Officer, Robin Burgess, at (202) 785-6581 or Robin_Burgess@blm.gov. Signed by:                                                                   Authenticated by:Mary Tisdale                                                               Robert M. WilliamsDivision Chief                                                            Division of IRM Governance,WO-560Education, Interpretation, and Partnerships