New tax check-off program to help communities showcase history

A new tax check-off program debuting on the 2015 Kentucky state income tax return is designed to help build stronger history organizations across the commonwealth and instill pride in its communities. Donations for Kentucky’s Local History Trust Fund will help local historical organizations — museums, cemetery preservation groups, educators, genealogical societies and more — to meet professional standards and to share their community’s role in Kentucky’s development. This voluntary donation can be made by checking a box on the tax return, designating a portion of one’s state income tax refund to the fund. Grants will range from $500 to $1,500 and can be used to support anything to do with local history that meets field-based standards and is designed to strengthen the organization. Such projects include, but aren’t limited to, education programs, collections care, cemetery preservation, publications and more. “The new tax check-off for the Local History Fund is an unprecedented opportunity for historic and heritage organizations across the state to extend their services and take on new projects with the direct support of generous Kentuckians,” said Alissa Keller, executive director of the Museums of Hopkinsville, one of the groups that stands to benefit from the program. “Our museum is excited at the possibility to do more to serve our community and our state because of this program.” The Kentucky Historical Society (KHS) is administering the trust fund and will begin awarding Local History Trust Fund grants later this year. “Even a small donation will go a long way toward helping local history organizations improve their work and make a lasting impact on their communities,” said KHS Outreach Services Manager Stuart Sanders, who oversees the program. More information.