Cornerstones’ heritage preservation work falls into two tracts. The first is what we call core mission projects. These are the preservation projects central to why we were founded 35 years ago: projects that are direct collaborations with community members to preserve their heritage. Recent examples of this work are Plaza del Cerro in Chimayo, churches in Mora County, and the Women’s Morada in Abiquiu. We fund these projects through generous gifts from individuals and companies as well as grants from foundations.
The other tract is projects that take place under the Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units (CESU) Network. This is a nationwide group of organizations that collaborate with the federal government to steward many of our country’s natural and cultural resources. I love that we are part of this effort because it signals to me that Cornerstones is not only a “go-to” organization to care for some of our national heritage, but we are also seen as qualified to train others. An important part of these projects is conducting “hands-on” historic preservation training workshops on public lands for federal employees and volunteers. The federal government funds these projects.
We are currently working on CESU projects in California, Arizona, and New Mexico. In this column, I am focusing on one of them. Ryan Ranch in Joshua Tree National Park has an interesting story that illustrates one of the key periods in the recent history of the American West. But honestly, the motivation for this column came when I was preparing a slide show for a presentation. Many gorgeous photos of Ryan Ranch grabbed my attention.
Planning Your Year-End Giving
As you consider your year-end charitable contributions, please remember Cornerstones' work and contributions to preservation of the Southwest's cultures and iconic landscape.
Our year-end appeal letter and remit envelope will arrive in mailboxes shortly after the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Or, you may choose to donate online. Or, perhaps you're considering a gift of stock, a distribution from you IRA, or payment from a donor advised fund. We can receive payments from all these options.
If you have any questions or would like to arrange a transfer of funds, please contact Mary Madigan, Director of External Relations, at mmadigan@cstones.org or (505) 982-9521, x 301. Many thanks for considering Cornerstones Community Partnerships.