Our Mission
Young Ohio Preservationists (YOP) was established in 2013 with the mission of engaging any Ohioan interested in preservation—both professional and novice—all while bringing to light current issues in heritage preservation and introducing people to great historic sites located across the state. We are aiming to further engage those interested in preservation and to develop our generation’s voice in preservation advocacy. The mission of historic preservation is to preserve all cultural heritage—including what is tangible and intangible. YOP’s goal is to recognize all history, and to shift the mindset that historic preservation is only for old, grand homes and buildings, but is instead about putting new emphasis on unique, historic architecture intended to last ages that give a community a sense of place on which to associate an identity. The physical buildings and places help link our present moment to other eras and tell stories so we can understand ourselves, our communities and culture, and when the buildings are lost, so is much of the story. In contrast, many modern developments prioritize profitability above all else, are not built to last, and are so generic they look like they could be anywhere and actually feel like no place at all. YOP aims to communicate the importance of these places not simply because of their physical qualities, but also because of the impact their continued existence has on the livability and quality of a community, as well as the environmental benefits of adaptive reuse.
Our Events
YOP hosts several events each year, including several happy hour events, attended and hosted tours of historic areas and buildings in Central Ohio, and moderated some conversations with local and state subject matter experts. We plan to advance our programming by further connecting with local business and building owners, regional experts, and those who can help facilitate the growth of this generation of preservationists by sharing experience, learning from the field, and solving problems in our communities.
Historic Preservations core is rooted in advocacy. Young Ohio Preservationists aims to provide the newest generation of potential preservationists with the tools to advocate for themselves and for the cultural and historic issues in which they believe. Whether that be a Brutalist university building, or a site with ties to Indian American heritage, knowing how to advocate for preservation will allow them to change things for the better and help to preserve Ohio’s rich heritage.
Young Ohio Preservationists are ready to share our voices on historic preservation matters that are important to us, and to you. We would love to have your voice be a part of our group.
If you would like to engage with the Young Ohio Preservationists, you can find them on Facebook.
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