Navigating the Unexpected: Fundraising and Job Searching Strategies for Historic Preservationists

June 06, 2025 by Preservation Leadership Forum

In 2025, unexpected and difficult changes brought on by governmental actions continue to impact the people and organizations essential to the work of preservation. These challenges include a loss of key funding sources and significant work force reductions from every corner of the field.

As the National Trust continues to respond to these challenges and advocate for historic preservation at all levels, we realize the need to support those in the field with information, expertise, and resources. And so, this summer, Preservation Leadership Forum is not only hosting a series of webinars from June to August that will provide expert advice on topics addressing both fundraising and job search strategies, but also welcoming job seekers to join our LinkedIn group to connect with others in the field.

Join the National Trust LinkedIn Group

As an additional resource, the National Trust would like to invite Job Seekers and Supporters to use our LinkedIn Group as a platform to connect. While the space continues to be a forum for events and information, we want to encourage those looking for a job right now to use the group as a tool to build connections and share more about what you are looking for.

For Job Seekers: Introduce yourself and share what kind of positions you are looking for along with your geographic preferences. Also, share if you are open to connecting with others for informational interviews. Make sure to include a link to your LinkedIn profile.

For Job Supporters: Comment on the individual posts with information on potential positions (with salary transparency!) and if you are willing to talk and share your experiences with the original poster.

Forum Webinars

June 26, 2025

2:00 PM ET – 3:00 PM ET

Ask Me Anything with National Trust Talent Acquisition Specialist Dave Ferguson

Forum Webinar
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In this one-hour session National Trust Talent Acquisition Specialist Dave Ferguson will provide, in an Ask-Me-Anything format, answers and tips on everything from resume revision to strategies for job hunting in the current climate. Whether you are tackling the job market for the first time in decades or are just beginning your search for the first time, this session is for you. When registering, you will have an opportunity to submit questions in advance of the session.

Note: This session is meant to be broad and not specific to applications for positions at the National Trust

Speakers: Dave Ferguson, Talent Acquisition Specialist

Track: Job Search Strategies

July 17, 2025

3:00 PM ET – 4:00 PM ET

How to Kickstart a Fundraising Program as a Staff of One

Forum Webinar
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With the loss of essential funding from the federal government, some organizations are feeling the pinch and searching for strategies to pivot development plans in the face of the shifting philanthropic landscape. Three vice presidents from the National Trust Development Division will share opportunities, challenges, and tips for any organization facing the need to reevaluate their fundraising program from the ground up.

Speakers: Cari Maslow, Interim Vice President of Annual Giving and Development Services | Patty Winterton, Vice President of Philanthropy | Michelle Horton, Vice President of Institutional Partnerships and Strategy

Track: Fundraising Strategies

July 31, 2025

2:00 PM ET – 3:00 PM ET

Grant Writing Strategies

Forum Webinar
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For many nonprofit organizations across the United States grant writing a key piece of a fundraising strategy. With major governmental grants in jeopardy or off the table, it’s time to brush up on your grant writing skills. National Trust staff from the Preservation Services and Outreach Department and the Development Division will share tips and techniques to writing a great grant application.

Note: While some of the material will be focused on National Trust grants, this session is meant to be broad and applicable outside the National Trust programs.

Speakers: Nicky Vann, Director of Grants & Awards Program | Haley Powell Kelly, Associate Director of Institutional Giving

Track: Job Search Strategies

August 7, 2025

2:00 PM ET – 3:00 PM ET

Leveraging LinkedIn for Stronger Online Networking

Forum Webinar
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For those looking for a new job in historic preservation (or even in allied fields) it is important to recognize the role LinkedIn plays in building networks, connections, and conversation. In this session National Trust staff will talk through their approach to recruiting on LinkedIn and provide some tips on how to strengthen your online job search process to your benefit.

Speakers: Dave Ferguson, Talent Acquisition Specialist

Track: Job Search Strategies

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