Applications Now Open for 2026 Arizona Preserve America Youth Summit

We're excited to share an exceptional opportunity for middle and high school students across Arizona! The Preserve America Youth Summit: Next Generation Stewards is coming to Flagstaff, June 1-4, 2026, and applications are now open.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Learning Experience

This nationally recognized program offers students and their teachers, mentors, or service leaders a chance to participate in an immersive learning, service, and leadership experience – completely free of charge. With the Route 66 Centennial as this year's theme, participants will engage in hands-on activities at historic sites throughout the Flagstaff area, gaining unique insights into preservation and community stewardship.

The Summit is presented by the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Preserve Route 66 Initiative and HOPE crew programs, in partnership with the Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona and other local organizations. Thanks to generous sponsors, there are no costs to participants – lodging, meals, program expenses, and transportation during the Summit are all provided.

What Makes This Program Special?

Unlike typical field trips, the Youth Summit offers behind-the-scenes experiences at historic places and treats young participants as consultants. Students are given real opportunities to examine critical preservation issues, share their ideas, and develop recommendations that matter to their communities.

Past participants – students, chaperones, and teachers alike – have described the Summit as one of the most memorable experiences of their lives. The program helps students develop valuable leadership, communication, and organizational skills while having fun and making lasting connections.

Program Details

The Summit runs from noon on Monday, June 2 through noon on Thursday, June 4. Because participants are treated as consultants, the program is highly immersive and requires attendance at all events. Students will stay with chaperones and teachers for three nights, with extensive programming during the day and a final Public Forum/Town Hall presentation on Thursday.

All participants receive a Certificate of Participation recognizing 32 hours of community service, along with opportunities to attend future Summits, including national events. Many alumni have successfully leveraged their Youth Summit experience in college and job applications, scholarship competitions, and other advancement opportunities.

How to Apply

Students, teachers, and service leaders are selected through competitive online applications. The application process is designed to assess interest and motivation rather than solely academic achievement, with particular attention paid to references.

For more information and to access the application, visit preservationyouthsummit.org

Have questions? Don't hesitate to reach out – we're here to help students take advantage of this incredible opportunity to become the next generation of preservation stewards!

The Arizona Preservation Foundation is proud to support programs that engage young Arizonans in preserving our state's rich cultural heritage.