about

Who We Are.

YPA began in 2003 by shining a spotlight on the underserved historic sites in our community, especially those in the African-American community. Since our founding by Dan Holland, YPA’s mission has been to empower young people to invite them to share their voices in how the history of our community should be preserved. We’re here for you and invite everyone to work beside us and be counted; to lift up your voices and be heard, and to help us to fix the important historic things that are broken. This is who we are. This is the movement we invite you to join.

YPA’s Mission.

The Young Preservationists Association (YPA) represents and promotes younger voices in historic preservation. Our organization uses community engagement and education to advocate for the preservation of historic sites and structures in the Greater Pittsburgh region. YPA insists that historic preservation is an essential tool for economic development and regional revitalization. 

The specific purpose of the Corporation shall be active participation of young people in the preservation of historic resources to combat community deterioration in Southwestern Pennsylvania and other economically distressed areas of Pennsylvania, and for other purposes and regions related hereto.

YPA’s Vision.

YPA has a vision of a national network of young preservation groups stretching across the country; all working together to share best practices and to inspire in each other a common purpose of empowerment for young people to engage in the historic preservation of their communities.

YPA’s Objectives.

The YPA will accomplish its mission by pursuing the following objectives:

Educate young people about the value of historic preservation as a key component of economic and community renewal in their community.

Train young people to use strategies and tools to preserve their history.

Provide opportunities for youth participation in preservation activities.

Explore Our Programs.

We offer a number of programs to educate, empower, and impact our community members throughout the year. Learn More

Become a
YPA Member

Please consider becoming a member of YPA. It shows us that you’re paying attention and enjoy the work we’re doing. It tells us that you’re there and we can count on you for your support. You can become part of a movement that will immediately impact your life and community around you. Please join our team and lend your voice!

BECOME A MEMBER

join