On November 6, the National Trust for Historic Preservation helped host a dynamic roundtable discussion in New Orleans, as part of a first-of-its-kind partnership between Travelers and the National Trust, called Travelers Across America.

Launched earlier this year in celebration of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, Travelers Across America is dedicated to restoring and protecting historic landmarks across the country. It includes grants that will help restore and preserve historic landmarks and support the communities that surround them. These sites will then serve as models that can be replicated elsewhere.

The first grant is to the Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans, which will assist with housing repairs for low- to moderate-income homeowners living within a New Orleans Historic Landmarks Commission district. Other grant recipients include the Eames House in Los Angeles; the Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic, Connecticut; and the Oliver Kelley Farm in Elk River, Minnesota.

It was a lively and inspiring evening in New Orleans, with thoughtful conversation about what resilience really means for the city and its neighborhoods. Susan Saulny moderated a dynamic panel featuring Ron C. Henderson, Deputy Commissioner for the Louisiana Department of Insurance; Lesli Harris, City Councilmember for District B; Kristin Palmer, Executive Director of the Preservation Resource Center; and Jarrod Franklin, Founder of Franklin Construction & Design.

Panelists spoke about the resilience and determination of New Orleanians to protect their homes and strengthen their communities, the importance of working together across city and state levels, and how partnerships between business and nonprofits can make a lasting difference.

"This initiative is central to our mission, and we are grateful to Travelers for their investment in New Orleans and their dedication to protecting America’s past and fortifying its future." said Carol Quillen, president and CEO National Trust for Historic Preservation.