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Let us all be this believer,
Out on the scaffold of history…
Polishing the Giant Window
‘Til we see our own
Luminous faces.
Throughout the Commonwealth, people of all backgrounds work tirelessly in classrooms, libraries, neighborhoods, cultural spaces, nonprofits, churches, parks, and even on front porches to honor the spirit of democracy. This project is inspired by The Window Keeper, a commissioned poem by Philadelphia Poet Laureate Yolanda Wisher that imagines democracy as a skyscraper window requiring continual care and clarity. PA Humanities invites public nominations for local “Window Keepers” to be recognized and celebrated later in the year in honor of the 250th anniversary of our nation.
Like the brave window cleaner scaling a skyscraper in Yolanda Wisher’s poem, Window Keepers represent communities’ own strengths, stories, and possibilities. They help neighbors feel connected and inspire us through their everyday acts of care, storytelling, teaching, or service. They pass down traditions, knowledge, or skills that help keep culture and community identity alive. They encourage people to participate in community life, making their voices and actions matter. They are not elected officials but everyday Pennsylvanians whose work often goes unnoticed yet has a lasting impact.
They are neighbors, educators, organizers, librarians, faith leaders, volunteers, and community members who help people come together, solve problems, and strengthen civic life in their communities. No story is too big or too small.
Meet our first 25 Window Keepers to see examples of the many ways people serve as stewards of civic life across Pennsylvania. You can also read our FAQs and Terms and Guidelines to learn more about the program and nomination process.
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Residents gather to share personal memories related to family, work, and migration.
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Select stories are professionally recorded and enriched with historical photos.
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Public screenings bring communities together to celebrate and discuss the shared histories.
PA Humanities is proud to introduce the first 25 Window Keepers—people from across Pennsylvania whose everyday leadership helps strengthen civic life. These individuals were selected by PA Humanities to launch the Window Keeper Civic Honors initiative and illustrate the many ways people care for their communities.
Help us recognize everyday leaders from all 67 counties across Pennsylvania whose care and commitment strengthen our communities.
Submitting a nomination just takes a few minutes!
Download graphics, messaging, and outreach materials to help you share the Window Keeper Civic Honors initiative with your community.
Find answers to common questions about Window Keepers, the nomination process, eligibility, and how the program works.
Review the eligibility criteria, nomination requirements, and important information about how Window Keeper submissions will be reviewed and recognized.
