Sleeping Bear Forever (formerly Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear) is continuing its commitment to preserving the historic places that make Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore unique through a series of hands on preservation projects across the park in 2026. Volunteers are invited to play a direct role in protecting these irreplaceable landmarks for future generations.
“Our preservation projects connect people to the park in a very tangible way,” said Milan Kuklik, preservation project manager for Sleeping Bear Forever. “Whether someone joins us for a single day or returns throughout the season, every volunteer makes a real difference in preserving the history and character of Sleeping Bear.”
Among this year’s major projects are stone masonry to fill gaps in foundations at several Port Oneida Farms including Thoreson, Kelderhouse, Lawr and Basch, as well as replacement of rolled roofing on outbuildings at these sites. Carpentry projects include floor restoration at Thoreson farm, and the Kelderhouse farm. These improvements help protect these historic structures from further deterioration while preserving their historic integrity and the accompanying stories.
Another major focus this season is continuing restoration of the 75 historic windows at the Faust Log Cabin on Inspiration Point that began last year. Volunteers will work alongside experienced preservation staff to repair and restore the original windows, extending the life of one of the park’s most recognizable historic structures.
Registration is requested for planning, though walk-ons are welcome. Volunteer workdays are scheduled:
• Faust Log Cabin Window Restoration: Tuesdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Other Preservation Projects: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
No previous preservation experience is necessary for many projects. Volunteers receive guidance and instruction, and have the opportunity to learn traditional preservation techniques while contributing to meaningful work in the national park.
Sleeping Bear Forever will also return to North Manitou Island August 21-28 for a week-long preservation project. Volunteers must commit to at least three days. Space for this unique volunteer opportunity with housing provided, is limited, and early registration is encouraged. Additional details about the project and registration are available by emailing Milan@sleepingbearforever. org.
“Every historic building tells a story about the people who lived and worked here,” said Susan Pocklington, executive director of SBF. “By preserving these structures today, we’re ensuring those stories remain part of the park experience for generations to come.”
Preservation projects are made possible through the support of volunteers, donors, grants, and partners who share a commitment to protecting the cultural heritage of Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore, an integral part of our local community.
Those interested in volunteering or learning more about upcoming preservation projects can visit sleepingbearforever.org for schedules, project information, and registration.
Sleeping Bear Forever is an official nonprofit partner of Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore since 1998. Through preservation, education, volunteerism, and philanthropy, the organization helps protect the park’s natural and cultural resources and landscapes while creating meaningful opportunities for people to connect with one of America’s most treasured landscapes.
