The Lumber Heritage Region of Pennsylvania Inc. (LHR) announced it has been awarded a $10,000 Spring Semiquincentennial Grant from America250PA in support of its upcoming project, Pennsylvania’s Lumber Heritage Quests: Celebrating America!

The competitive grant process received more than 440 applications requesting more than $6 million in funding. LHR’s project seeks to interactively engage Pennsylvanians in honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. The 15-county region has played an important role throughout American history and continues to have a significant impact today, LHR officials observed.

“We are honored to receive this grant from America250PA as we prepare to commemorate our region’s vital role in our nation’s history,” said Holly Komonczi, LHR executive director. “This support allows us to engage communities across 15 counties in meaningful, place-based experiences that celebrate our past and inspire future generations. I especially want to recognize the dedication of our education and outreach administrator, Rowan Crisp, whose creativity and leadership were instrumental in bringing this project to life.”

The grant will support the creation and promotion of regional “quest” activities — self-guided experiences that blend outdoor exploration with historical storytelling. Designed to engage both residents and visitors, the initiative aims to encourage deeper connections with the landscape, opportunities and complex history of this significant region within Pennsylvania.

“America250PA is proud to support creative, place-based initiatives that bring Pennsylvanians into conversation with their history and landscape,” said Cassandra Coleman, executive director of America250PA. “The Lumber Heritage Quests offer a unique and meaningful way to experience the stories of the commonwealth’s forest communities — through exploration, reflection and discovery. By inviting residents and visitors to walk, paddle and connect with the land, this project honors our EPIC principles of Educate, Preserve, Innovate and Celebrate, while reinforcing the shared pride and forward-looking spirit at the heart of the Semiquincentennial.”

Details about quest sites and launch events will be released in the coming months. LHR will coordinate with local partners and America250PA staff to ensure the project aligns with broader statewide celebrations and commemorative efforts.

“The Lumber Heritage Region thanks America250PA for its support and is proud to be part of a statewide movement to ensure every Pennsylvanian has a meaningful opportunity to participate in the Semiquincentennial,” LHR officials said.

For more information about LHR and updates on Pennsylvania’s Lumber Heritage Quests: Celebrating America, visit lumberheritage.org or follow LHR on social media.