Arizona students & educators,
An exciting opportunity awaits you! The Preserve America Youth Summit(opens in new tab) is taking place June 1 - 4, 2026, and we are seeking teachers as well as 7th - 12th graders to participate.
The Route 66 Centennial Youth Summit will be presented by the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Preserve Route 66 Initiative(opens in new tab) and HOPE Crew programs(opens in new tab) in partnership with the Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona(opens in new tab) and other AZ partners.
The Summit will offer engaging on-site interactive learning and leadership experiences at historic places for students and educators with goals of strengthening community efforts and motivating the next generation of stewards.
This Youth Summit is a fully funded opportunity for both students and teachers! All program costs, including meals, transportation, and lodging are covered for all Summit participants. Additionally, community service hours are offered to participants.
The Youth Summit is a four-day program for Arizona middle and high school students, teachers, and service leaders sharing historic places associated with Route 66 preparing for the 100th anniversary. Participants are selected through an online application process(opens in new tab). All applicants- teachers and students alike- fill out the same online application.
During the Summit participants will:
- travel along Route 66 in Arizona
- explore significant historic properties associated with Route 66
- develop ideas for celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66
- participate in hands-on learning activities
- investigate interpretive approaches for historic places
- study innovative programs and approaches to preservation
- interact with other students and national and state leaders
- serve through work on an important community service project
- create recommendations for future generations
- experience fun and unique activities
- BE a leader! Participants' ideas will be shared at a public Town Hall
Please note, this is not a field trip nor a summer camp. Participants act as consultants and problem solvers! Space is limited, and the application deadline is April 2026. Applications are available here(opens in new tab).
For more information please contact:
Jessika: [email protected]
Ann Alexander Walker: [email protected]
Michelle Pearson: [email protected]