Heritage Club
Admittance: June - August
To apply for the Heritage Club, interested 10th-12th graders must submit a completed application. This application typically includes questions about the applicant's interest in history, community involvement, and academic goals.
Once applications are reviewed, selected candidates will be invited to interview with members of the Senior Board and Senior Leadership. These interviews provide an opportunity for applicants to discuss their passion for history, their potential contributions to the club, and their understanding of the program's goals.
Educational Curriculum: September - October
The Heritage Club's educational curriculum is designed to provide members with a comprehensive understanding of local history and historic preservation. The four-session program, held every other week from September to October, takes place at the History and Culture Center.
- Historic Franklin Tennessee: Led by Rick Warwick, this session delves into the rich history of Franklin, Tennessee, exploring key events, influential figures, and the city's unique character.
- Historic Primary Source Research: Under the guidance of Nat Taylor, members learn how to analyze primary sources such as historical documents, photographs, and artifacts to gain firsthand insights into the past.
- Grant Writing and Fundraising: Cynthia Stielow will teach members the art of crafting compelling grant proposals and securing funding for their projects. They will also learn strategies for fundraising events and community outreach.
- Historic Preservation Laws and Protections: Anna Marcum will provide an overview of local, state, and federal laws and regulations related to historic preservation. Members will gain a deeper understanding of the legal framework that governs historic sites and buildings.
Election of Officers: November
In November, the Heritage Club members participate in a single session dedicated to electing their leadership team. This process involves:
1. Application and Speech: Members interested in running for a leadership position must submit an application and deliver a short speech outlining their qualifications and vision for the club.
2. Voting: Following the speeches, club members cast their votes to elect the following officers:
- Chairperson: The overall leader of the club, responsible for overseeing projects and meetings.
- Vice Chairperson: Assists the Chairperson and takes on additional responsibilities as needed.
- Secretary: Maintains accurate records of club meetings, correspondence, and project documentation.
- Treasurer: Manages the club's finances, including budgeting, fundraising, and expense tracking.
The Capstone Project: November - April
From November to April, Heritage Club members embark on a year-long project, similar to a Boy Scout project, that focuses on local history and preservation. This hands-on experience allows them to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world challenges.
Project Phases:
1. Project Selection: Members collaborate to select a project that aligns with their interests and contributes to the community. This might involve restoring a historic landmark, creating an educational exhibit, or conducting oral history interviews.
2. Research: In-depth research is conducted to gather information about the project, including historical context, relevant documents, and expert opinions.
3. Community Engagement: Members may present their project proposal to the Historical Zoning Commission, seeking input and approval. They may also participate in public meetings or workshops to share their ideas with the community.
4. Fundraising: To fund their project, members may apply for grants, organize fundraising events, or seek donations from local businesses and individuals.
5. Execution: With funding secured, the club members execute their project, working together to achieve their goals. This phase involves tasks such as restoration work, exhibit design, or event planning.
Through this immersive experience, members develop leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deep appreciation for Franklin's history.
Graduation Ceremony: May
The culmination of the Heritage Club experience is a formal graduation ceremony held in May. This event celebrates the accomplishments of the graduating class and recognizes their contributions to the community.
Key elements of the ceremony include:
1. Project Presentation: Each graduating member presents their completed project to an audience of family, friends, and community members. This showcase highlights the hard work, creativity, and dedication of the students.
2. Speeches: Members of the graduating class may deliver speeches reflecting on their experiences in the club, the impact of their projects, and their future aspirations.
3. Charge from William and Bari: William and Bari, key figures in the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, offer words of wisdom and encouragement to the graduating class. They may share insights on the importance of preserving history, community engagement, and lifelong learning.
4. Welcome from NextGen Board: Members of the NextGen Board, a young professionals group affiliated with the Heritage Foundation, extend a warm welcome to the graduating seniors. They may invite them to participate in future NextGen events and encourage continued involvement in the community.
The graduation ceremony serves as a powerful conclusion to the Heritage Club experience, inspiring future generations of young leaders to carry on the legacy of Franklin's rich history.
