Preservation League Secures Grant for Field Services

Corning Incorporated Foundation Provides $7,500 to support work in Central New York and Southern Tier

ALBANY, NY (05/25/2011)(readMedia)-- The Preservation League of New York State recently received a grant of $7,500 from Corning Incorporated Foundation to support field services programs in Central New York and the Southern Tier.

Founded in 1974, the Preservation League is New York State's only statewide preservation organization. From its headquarters in Albany and a satellite office in Ithaca, the League's staff of ten serves all of New York's 62 counties in an effort to advance preservation both as a means to protect our rich history and heritage and to catalyze economic revitalization in New York's distressed communities.

The majority of the League's programs fall under the broad heading of field services, including:

  • Technical Services: Providing educational programs, including Upper Floors and Tax Credit workshops, consulting on a vast array of preservation issues, administering the Preserve New York grant program, and designating New York's most threatened historic properties through its Seven to Save list;
  • Public Policy: Advocating for legislation to advance preservation, such as the Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit; and the
  • Endangered Properties Intervention Program (EPIP): Offering low-interest loans or acquiring threatened historic properties that present an immediate need for intervention.

"We are delighted to support the work of the League in the Southern Tier and Central New York and, thereby, help enable additional communities to embrace the opportunity to celebrate and protect the places that make them unique," said Kristin A. Swain, President of the Foundation.

"Funding for field services in Central New York and the Southern Tier will ensure continuation of important programs and support in this part of New York State," said Jay DiLorenzo, President of the Preservation League. "The value of preservation cannot be overstated, and our technical services outreach helps to promote preservation as a means to protect our history and heritage while bringing about economic recovery in the many cities, towns, and hamlets that have declined in recent years."

According to Tania Werbizky, the League's Regional Director of Technical and Grant Programs based in the Ithaca office, "This gift from Corning Incorporated Foundation will ensure the continuation and broader promotion of the League's important programs, provide funds to support our field services in the region, and allow us to support those individuals, organizations, and municipalities engaged in the important work of preservation."

For more information on the Preservation League, please call 518-462-5658 or visit the League's website at www.preservenys.org .