A Video Library of Virtual Workshops 

Welcome to our series of virtual workshops on ‘Preserving Georgia’s African American Resources.’ In these sessions, we explore the critical issues surrounding the preservation of historic African American sites across Georgia. Whether you’re a preservationist, community leader, or simply passionate about history, these workshops offer valuable insights into protecting, funding, and restoring these culturally significant spaces.

The recordings provide guidance on technical preservation, fundraising strategies, and more, to help you make an impact on your local preservation efforts. Explore the full collection below and join us in protecting and preserving Georgia’s African American heritage.

Preserving Georgia’s African American Resources
Part 1

December 2020 

This is an introductory workshop, providing an overview on preserving Georgia’s African American Resources. Hear from Melissa Jest, African American Programs Coordinator with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs Historic Preservation Division; Keilah Spann, Chief of Cultural Resources at Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park; and the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation.

In Part 1, we cover introductions and major themes and issues in African American Historic Preservation.

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Preserving Georgia’s African American Resources
Part 2

December 2020

Part 2 covers fundraising planning & strategies, and preservation techniques & strategies

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Non-Profits 101

February 2024

This class is your gateway to the essentials of establishing and managing a non-profit organization. Dive into the fundamentals of non-profit creation, from shaping a compelling mission and vision to navigating the intricacies of bylaws and governance. Explore the dynamic world of non-profit strategy alongside guest speakers, the Friends of Cherry Grove Schoolhouse, as they share their inspiring journey. Gain invaluable insights into building a robust board and crafting effective plans for impactful preservation efforts.

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Grant Opportunities with the National Park Service

June 2022

The Georgia Trust partnered with the National Park Service (NPS) and the Georgia African American Preservation Network (GAAHPN) to bring you this webinar as part of our African American Preservation Program. Interested in learning more about the grant opportunities through the National Park Service? Do you have a project that might be a good fit for the African American Civil Rights, History of Equal Rights, or Underrepresented Communities grant programs? Are you looking ahead to upcoming opportunities including Save America’s Treasures, Tribal Heritage Grants, HBCU Preservation Grant, or the Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grants? Then join us for this program with Megan Brown and Katherine Carey of the National Park Service to learn about funding opportunities, ask questions, or learn how your organization might partner as a fiscal agent to take advantage of the grants.

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Grant Writing Workshop

August 2022

Interested in learning more about the grant writing process and how to sell your preservation project? This workshop features tips and insights from speakers who will cover the different elements of writing and getting grants. Hear from Mark Beatty, Director of Planning and Government Services with the Northeast Georgia Regional Commission; Rebecca Fenwick, Principal at Ethos Preservation, a preservation consulting firm; and Bryn Chanudet, Development Director with the Georgia Trust. 

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Understanding the National Register

October 2023

Join us for a virtual workshop to better understand the National Register! This two-hour webinar will introduce this important preservation tool, its functions, and the nomination process, as well as the challenges and opportunities involved in nominating African American resources. The National Register of Historic Places recognizes and honors significant historic and cultural landmarks across the United States and is a vital resource for preserving these treasures. Beyond mere recognition, inclusion in the National Register brings a host of benefits to listed properties and the communities that surround them. Inclusion in the Register can open doors to grants, tax incentives, and funding opportunities that help owners maintain and restore these historic properties. Moreover, the National Register serves as an invaluable resource for researchers, historians, and educators. It provides a wealth of information about the nation’s history, architecture, and culture, easily accessible to anyone interested in exploring it. The documentation and research behind each listing contribute to our understanding of America’s past and serve as a foundation for scholarly work and education.

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Challenges and Opportunities of Ownership

April 2022

This workshop focuses on the challenges and opportunities of both ownership and stewardship of historic African American resources. Topics touched on include: generational ownership, revitalization of resources, and preservation strategies in real estate. Hear from the Georgia Heirs Property Law Center; LeJuano Varnell, Executive Director of Sweet Auburn Works; and The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation.

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Preserving African American Cemeteries and Burial Grounds

February 2023

This workshop focuses on African American cemeteries and burial grounds, and tools for their preservation. Topics include: identifying and preserving cemeteries; preserving landscapes, plantings, and monuments; and grassroots advocacy for cemeteries. Hear from Dr. Joe Joseph and Dr. Matt Matternes, Directors of the Cemetery Studies Program for New South Associates; Ashley Shares, Director of Preservation, and Abra Lee, Director of Horticulture, with Oakland Cemetery Foundation; and Elon Osby, a Board Member of Buckhead Heritage, who fought to preserve Mt. Olive Cemetery in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta.

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Preserving Black Musical Heritage

August 2024

Join The Georgia Trust for an insightful virtual workshop as part of our series on Preserving Georgia’s African American Resources. This workshop, “Preserving Black Musical Heritage,” features three distinguished presenters who will share their unique experiences and preservation strategies:

  • Ms. Florene Dawkins, Chair of the Friends of Ma Rainey, will delve into the legacy of the “Mother of the Blues” and the significance of preserving her home, the Ma Rainey House and Blues Museum in Columbus.
  • Dr. Shelton Land, Executive Director of The Douglass Theatre in Macon, will discuss the theatre’s rich history as the premier theatre open to African-American citizens in the city and its ongoing preservation efforts.
  • Ms. Rutha Harris of the Albany Freedom Singers will highlight her experience and the importance of preserving the musical heritage of the Civil Rights Movement.

Download accompanying Resource Sheet

Disclaimer: the views, information, or opinions expressed by presenters in these videos are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation.