The Arizona Heritage Preservation Youth Council
Hello Students and Parents!
It is the State Historic Preservation Office’s (SHPO) sincere pleasure to be a part of the launch of the inaugural Year of the Arizona’s Heritage Preservation Youth Council (HPYC). The Council, established and led by a dedicated group of high school students, is the outgrowth of our office’s collaboration with the Preserve America Youth Summit, Arizona Historic Route 66 Association and the National Trust for Historic Preservation Hope Crew, to bring 35 students grades 8-12 together to learn more about the history of the places and communities that are historically linked by their association with the “Mother Road”. The Event was a success and, desiring to learn more about Arizona’s history and continue engaging in historic Preservation activities, several student collaborated on a plan for a statewide Youth Council of student leaders that work within their communities to identify and preserve the places that are important to our heritage.
In September of 2025, the Governor’s Arizona 250 Commission unanimously voted to adopt the HPYC as an official initiative of the Commission. In 2026, the Council will launch with nine students hailing from around the State. Council members will hone their leadership skills through development of messaging and service projects and assist the Commission in executing their vision for Arizona’s semiquincentennial celebration. The HPYC is a student-organized and student-led and represents a unique opportunity to learn about the state’s history, engage with policy-makers and ensure the future of the places that matter.
Kathryn Leonard, Arizona State Historic Preservation Officer
The Arizona Heritage Preservation Youth Council acts as stewards of Arizona's cultural, historical and natural legacy. The nine member council represents the voice of Arizona's youth and will lead projects that promote preservation and inspire their peers and communities to value heritage as a cornerstone of Arizona's future.
<< Click Here to Read Our Charter >>
Mission Statement
To educate future leaders on the importance of historic preservation, empower young voices to actively protect and promote historic sites across the state, and engage with government structures to provide youth-driven insights on preservation policies and initiatives.
Who Are We
Made up of current middle school, high school studying in the State of Arizona, with a demonstrated interest in history, cultural heritage, preservation, sustainability, civic engagement, or community leadership.
For questions regarding the program, or to find out how you can help, please contact us at:
Email - azshpo@azstateparks.gov
Phone +1 (602) 542-4009
Are you a student grade 8-12 interested in learning how historic preservation strengthens communities? Consider applying for the 2026 Preserve America Youth Summit to be held June 1-4 in Flagstaff. Registration is free!"
