Oklahoma Humanities HOPE Grant

In May, the Oklahoma Route 66 Association received an Oklahoma Humanities HOPE Grant thanks to Oklahoma Humanities and the National Endowment of the Humanities. These monies helped replace the lost funds that we depend on to keep our Executive Director, our single paid staff member, employed and engaged with our individual and business members. Since summer is typically our busy season, it is vital we are in a position to provide travelers with the resources they need to enjoy the Mother Road in Oklahoma.

As you know, we have over 400 miles of Route 66 within our borders. The association helps bridge the gap that comes with those 400 miles to provide promotional opportunities, education resources, and enhancement to state tourism efforts like the #OKHereWeGo effort to encourage local engagement. If we can help someone in Sayre see what’s working in Vinita or share best practices from one of our sister organizations in the other seven Route 66 states, it helps everyone. A rising tide raises all boats!

This grant program would not be possible without the $2.2 trillion relief package that passed federally in late March. The association wants to thank our representatives for their support of these measures along with others to help our communities weather this unprecedented time.

As you feel comfortable venturing out and exploring Oklahoma, we know that Route 66 will be a part of that journey. Our continued engagement will make sure that people are aware of the long-time attractions and the new points of interest along our famous highway.