HistoriCorps
How We Work

How We Work

HISTORICORPS®

A Simple Guide To Who We Are, What We Do,

and

How YOU Can Help

What is HistoriCorps?

HistoriCorps® is a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to saving and sustaining the nation’s special places. HistoriCorps is headquartered in Morrison, Colorado with a regional office in Petersburg, Virginia. HistoriCorps crews work all over the country, and since 2009 we have engaged volunteers in the preservation of literally hundreds of structures in 26 states and territories from Alaska to Virginia.

We are committed to the preservation and stewardship of historic and cultural resources. The great majority of HistoriCorps projects take place on public lands, like a state park or national forest, and we occasionally will work on privately-held historic buildings, like those owned by nonprofits, that serve public benefit. HistoriCorps does not work on private residences or buildings that do not serve a direct public benefit. We have partnered with many public agencies. HistoriCorps is a service learning partner of the U.S. Forest Service, Department of Agriculture. 

HistoriCorps does not work on private residences or buildings that do not serve a direct public benefit. 

How are you funded?

HistoriCorps is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization funded by a combination of fee-for-service, grants, sponsorships, and donations. Donations are tax deductible as permitted by law. Many projects we take on would be too expensive for our partners, were they to contract with a private business for the work; or the partner does not have the staff resources available to do much needed repair and maintenance of their historic structures. As a nonprofit that engages enthusiastic volunteers to save important, historic places for public benefit, project partners may find that working with HistoriCorps through grants and agreements can help them achieve their preservation goals not only more affordably, but with the added benefit of public engagement and education. 

HistoriCorps’ core competencies are in project management and volunteer management. Project partners are generally responsible for securing funding through grants or other channels, as well as any permits or other clearance needed to work on a building or structure.

How do you choose projects?

We are always happy to explore potential partnerships with public land managers. If you are a public land manager, write to info@historicorps.org for more information on our model and how we can help you meet your preservation goals. 
 
If a potential partner is not a public land manager, we will work with the property owner to determine if the proposed project meets most or all of the criteria below. We work with each potential and current project partner on an individual, case-by-case basis.
  1. Buildings we work on must provide a significant public benefit.
  2. Buildings must be accessible and open to the public.
  3. The work must be appropriate for volunteers of any skill level.
  4. The building must be historically significant.

If you’d like to submit a project inquiry to HistoriCorps, email us at info@historicorps.org. 

Who are your staff and board? 

Not everyone at HistoriCorps is a volunteer. We rely on a team of passionate historic preservation professionals to organize and lead projects around the country to save historic structures. As a nonprofit organization, we are lead by an experienced board. Meet the team here.

Why volunteers?

We want as many people as possible to become involved in what we do. We believe the best way to achieve this is to offer the opportunity of free, hands-on, real-life, experience.

Who can volunteer?

Anyone over 14. No prior experience necessary. Those between 14 and 18 must be supervised by an adult. Our volunteers range from students to veterans, from vacationers to retired folks, to anyone looking for a memorable (and productive!) volunteer vacation. Volunteers are absolutely essential to our mission – really, we can’t do it without you! We are pleased to provide opportunities for volunteers to work “behind the scenes” as stewards of our shared historic resrouces and public lands.

Find more information on volunteering in our Volunteer FAQ!

What does it cost to volunteer?

Nothing.  In fact, HistoriCorps provides all meals, tools, training, and equipment – as well as a campsite or shared lodging. All you have to do is get there: we take care of the rest. Volunteers sign up in advance for a fixed period (usually a week at a time). They work under the guidance of an experienced Project Supervisor and a Crew Leader. We provide safety training, tools and equipment (including safety equipment).

Who benefits?

We like to say EVERYONE benefits! Well-preserved historic buildings enhance neighborhoods and communities in a host of ways. A liability turns into an asset.  An expensive eyesore becomes an attraction. Our volunteers get to explore wonderful places, meet like-minded people and learn new skills.  For some it is an entry into a whole new career.  

How can I help?

Tell people about us!  Although we run around 40 projects a year, we are a small organization with limited funds for promotion.  Yet we depend on people knowing about us in order to source new projects, reach fresh volunteers and attract financial support.

  • SUBMIT STORIES to local newspapers and on television or radio
  • CONNECT us to local organizations that publish newsletters and serve local communities
  • DONATE to help our budget go further
  • TELL US who we need to know in your community
  • SIGN UP for our newsletter or blog
  • SPREAD THE WORD that HistoriCorps is coming to town