WTHP ANNOUNCES VALERIE SIVINSKI GRANT PROGRAM FOR 2010

Washington Trust for Historic Preservation Announces 2010 Valerie Sivinski Washington Preserves Fund Grant Program  Grants Designed To Assist With Local Preservation Projects  The Washington Trust for Historic Preservation has announced that grant applications for the 2010 Valerie Sivinski Washington Preserves Fund are being accepted.  Established in 1997, the program has awarded 62 projects totaling over $51,000 in funding to local historic preservation organizations and advocates engaged in the important work of preserving Washington’s cultural heritage.  While priority is given to bricks and mortar rehabilitation of historic resources, eligible projects also include preservation planning, producing publications/materials to assist with advocacy efforts, and development of interpretive elements that promote the preservation of a specific resource.  “The Valerie Sivinski Washington Preserves Fund serves the dual role of assisting with key preservation projects across the state and, perhaps more importantly, acknowledges the individuals and organizations dedicated to Washington’s heritage,” stated Jennifer Meisner, Executive Director of the Washington Trust.  Recent grants from the Washington Preserves Fund have been awarded to assist with a variety of projects and preservation activities, including a roof replacement for the 1856 George Pickett House in Bellingham, restoration of the historic façade on the Fox Theater in Centralia, and masonry rehabilitation work to the Cutter Theater, located in Metaline Falls.  “Having worked as a practitioner and advocate for preservation at the local level, I know first hand the impact this grant program can make,” said Kris Bassett, Chair of the Valerie Sivinski Washington Preserves Fund.  “Locally initiated projects are the linchpin of preservation and the Washington Trust is thrilled to support communities across the state as they engage in heritage-related efforts.”  The next deadline for submitting grant applications is Tuesday, February 16^th, 2010.  Applications submitted via email must be received by 5pm that day.  If a hard copy is being sent via U.S. Mail, application materials must be postmarked no later than February 16.  All application materials are available on the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation’s website at www.wa-trust.org.  For additional questions about the application and for information on donating to the Valerie Sivinski Washington Preserves Fund, please contact Chris Moore at 206-624-9449 or via email at cmoore@wa-trust.org.