Federal Disaster Response Donation | Support for African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund | America 250 Leadership | Best City Parks

The deadlock over the FY26 federal budget and reopening the government continues with little hope that an end is in sight. While the budget fight is dominating headlines work still goes on. Here are some updates on the programs and policies important to the vitality of tourism communities.

FEMA | Federal Disaster Response

Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has made a $60 million donation to the Center for Philanthropy to counter cuts to federal emergency assistance by improving disaster resilience and recovery in communities that lack the resources to rebuild. The Center has rewarded grants for hurricane recovery in Western North Carolina, Florida, and Louisiana. The New York Times as an article on the donation and its impact.

Historic Preservation

MacKenzie Scott is developing a remarkable legacy for supporting communities, on October 15, she announced that she has donated $40 million to the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund. The Action Fund is the largest privately funded resource dedicated to the preservation of sites associated with African American history in the United States. As communities focus on showcasing their unique stories for America 250, the Action Fund grants could be a significant resource. The National Trust press release has detailed information on the donation and the Action Funds programs.

America 250 Commission

POLITICO reports the White House nominates a former Vance and DeSantis aide as executive director for America 250 Commission. With 8 months to go until July 4, 2026, this is an important hiring decision.

Parks Tourism

With the National Parks and other public lands facing challenges due to the federal government shutdown, The Washington Post travel section is reporting on 8 city parks in the U.S. worthy of a trip.

I hope everyone has a fabulous Halloween!