Involving More than 12,000 People: Thanks to All

As a result of participating in your workshops, students become inspired. … The lessons fostered … encourage Heritage students to look more closely at their communities and to think about how places in their lives matter, not just to their generation but to past generations and generations to come. ––Rob Buffone, Principal, Heritage Elementary School

This year, PHLF’s education staff and docents led 211 tours and offered 46 presentations, 43 Building Pride/Building Character programs, 41 programs at the Landmarks Preservation Resource Center, 3 writing workshops, 2 Architectural Design Challenges, and 1 Architecture Apprenticeship program.

In addition, PHLF presented 8 scholarship and honorable mention awards; provided updated text and photos for a new edition of Pittsburgh Then and Now and published a second, updated edition of H. H. Richardson’s Allegheny County Courthouse & Jail Guidebook, by Albert M. Tannler. Staff and docents also provided essential support for the City’s year-long Bicentennial Celebration, Cram Jam, Doors Open Pittsburgh, and Symphony Splendor, among many other community events.

As a result, more than 12,000 people learned more about their community or city and learned to value the Pittsburgh region all the more, because of what has been accomplished and built here. “We receive so much positive feedback,” said Mary Lu Denny, who helps organize and handles reservations for so many of PHLF’s tours and programs. Participants often thank “our knowledgeable tour leaders” for providing “eye-opening” experiences.

“The volunteer commitment of our 40 docents and the generous funding support we receive from private foundations, corporations, and members help make our educational programs affordable,” noted Education Coordinator Karen Cahall.

The Bitner Charitable Trust, Anne L. & George H. Clapp Charitable and Educational Trust, Dollar Bank Foundation, Fine Foundation, Gailliot Family Foundation, McSwigan Family Foundation, Alfred M. Oppenheimer Memorial Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation, PNC Bank, and Sprout Fund are among those who contributed to our educational programs in 2016. We are grateful to all our donors and docents.