1 ORGS · 6 ACTIVITIES ← all strategies ·
theory of action →

Thematic Historical Focus

By centering preservation and education on key regional development themes, organizations foster deeper community engagement and historical understanding, because shared thematic narratives make history more relatable and meaningful to diverse local audiences. This strategy involves curating historical content around unifying themes—such as indigenous presence, transportation infrastructure, and ethnic diversity—that critically shaped a region’s identity. Unlike broad chronological exhibits, this approach highlights interconnected social and economic forces, enabling nonprofits to create cohesive educational experiences across programs like oral histories, exhibits, and commemorative events.

1
orgs running it
6
activities of those orgs
6
clusters touched
who runs it

organizations running this strategy · 1

what it looks like in practice

activities of orgs running this strategy

A sample of programmatic activities from the orgs above. These are what the strategy looks like on the ground.

  • Curate and maintain historical collections Sulphur Springs Valley Historical
    direct service
    Maintains extensive collections of local historical materials, including early editions of local newspapers (in physical and microfilm formats), over 2,000 photographic prints, reference books, legal records, family histories, newspaper clippings, court records, land deeds, and books, photos, and prints related to Edgar Rice Burroughs. The organization continuously expands its collection of artifacts, documents, photographs, and other items of historic interest.
  • Develop and display cultural exhibits Sulphur Springs Valley Historical
    direct service
    Constructed a wickiup representing Chiricahua Apache temporary shelter with the assistance of Cochise’s great granddaughter, Elbys Hugar, and her family. Received and displayed a Chiricahua Apache puberty dress and other personal items donated by Hugar. Maintains museum displays on early life in the Southwest, Cochise, Geronimo, and other regional historical topics.
  • Host cultural and educational events Sulphur Springs Valley Historical
    direct service
    Holds regular monthly meetings at The Toggery on the second Thursday of each month, special events throughout the year, and educational programs for school children. Also hosted a blessing ritual with cultural performances by Elbys Hugar and her family, including dancing and the sprinkling of pollen.
  • Operate the Chiricahua Regional Museum and The Toggery archives Sulphur Springs Valley Historical
    direct service
    Operates the Chiricahua Regional Museum in a historic building dedicated to the history of the Sulphur Springs Valley and San Simon Valley, established in 1999. Also operates The Toggery, which houses a Research Library and Museum Archives, serving as an extension of the museum.
  • Organize commemorative projects and gatherings Sulphur Springs Valley Historical
    direct service
    Is erecting a stone monument with a bronze plaque near the Southern Pacific Railroad Depot in Willcox, Arizona, to commemorate Edgar Rice Burroughs’ arrival and military service. Co-hosting the four-day ERB Chain of Friendship Gathering in Willcox from September 25–28, 2025, including a dedication ceremony for the Burroughs monument.
  • Provide member access and public engagement Sulphur Springs Valley Historical
    direct service
    Offers unlimited free admission to the museum for members as part of its public engagement and membership program.