National Trust Council: Leading the Preservation Movement

The National Trust Council is a dedicated community of donors who believe in the power of historic places to improve people’s lives, to create new opportunities, and to build a more perfect union. While Council members come from all walks of life, these generous leaders are united by their passion for preservation—not only to protect our past, but also to build a stronger, more resilient future.

Your Invitation

You can propel the preservation movement by joining the National Trust Council, the premier giving society for the National Trust.

Your leadership giving will protect historic places, galvanize public engagement, and leverage preservation to tackle today’s biggest challenges. You'll also join an intimate community of like-minded supporters who understand preservation’s potential to uplift and unify our communities.

As a member of the Council, you can build your legacy while building a stronger tomorrow where future generations can find inspiration and common ground through historic places.

Join the National Trust Council today with an annual gift of $10,000 or more. Some Council members make annual gifts of $20,000, while others give $50,000 and even $100,000.

Right now, thanks to a match challenge from the Robert W. Wilson Charitable Trust, your gift may be matched—doubling your support for historic preservation.

Outside 103 Orchard Street. Credit: Travis Roozée

Philanthropy at work: student groups outside the National Trust Historic Site, the Tenement Museum in New York City, where they will tour historically created homes of immigrants, migrants, and refugees.

Member Benefits

As a valued member of the National Trust Council, you’ll have many opportunities to see the impact of your giving. Plus, you’ll enjoy a variety of exclusive benefits including

  • Invitations to travel with the National Trust Council Travel Program where you’ll enjoy behind-the-scenes access and curated experiences at world-renewed museums, cultural sites, and private homes—all while building connections with fellow Council members. Each year, you’ll be invited to 1-2 trips to historic destinations across the U.S.
  • Invitations to special events such as behind-the-scenes tours and other invitation-only gatherings.
  • Invitations to webinars, presentations, and virtual gatherings with executives, experts, and senior leaders from the National Trust.
  • Insider updates from National Trust leadership on the latest programs and strategic priorities.
  • Recognition in National Trust publications.
  • Full suite of benefits provided to Chairman’s Circle members.
Route 66 Road Trip Crew in front of Clifton's Republic in Los Angeles, California (2018).

photo by: David Kafer

Philanthropy at work: Preserve Route 66 Road Trip Crew in front of Clifton's Republic in Los Angeles.

Why Council Members Give

  • “Living out my passion for preservation” – Randy Bryant, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • “Feeling part of something larger” – Sheffield Hale, Atlanta, Georgia
  • "Sharing our love for America’s heritage” – Isabel and Peter Malkin, New York, New York
  • “Making a difference in the world” – Ken Woodcock, Washington, DC
  • “Seeing the impact of my support” – Camille Strachan, New Orleans, Louisiana
  • “Experiencing the power of place” – Gray and Sam Dixon, Edenton, North Carolina

Join the National Trust Council Today

The National Trust Council is a dedicated community of donors who believe in the power of preservation to improve people’s lives, to strengthen communities, and to build a more perfect union. Their leadership giving protects the past and makes a shared future possible.

Join the Council today! Remember, your gift may be eligible for the Wilson Trust match challenge, which will double your philanthropic impact.

Contact Us

Please contact Vice President of Philanthropy Patty Winterton at pwinterton@savingplaces.org if you have any questions.

photo by: Harlin Miller Photography

Philanthropy at work: Hands-On Preservation Experience Crew (HOPE Crew) at the TEP Center in New Orleans.

National Trust Historic Sites are open! We encourage you to check directly with each site for up-to-date information on available activities, ticketing, and guidelines if you are planning a visit.

Plan Your Visit