Ordinary People • Extraordinary Results.
Join WHALE and be part of the extraordinary effort to save New Bedford’s historic places — and give them renewed purpose.
WHALE members receive:
- Special Discounts — Reduced rates on WHALE-hosted tours, workshops, and other events.
- Member-Only Access — Invitations to free programs, workshops, and special gatherings open only to members.
- Preservation & Rehab Guidance — Direct access to high-level technical insight from our staff to help navigate historic preservation standards, community development programs, and building rehabilitation resources.
- Insider Updates — Regular communications on WHALE’s projects, advocacy, and the preservation news shaping New Bedford.
Why it matters:
WHALE’s members, partners, and supporters believe that by preserving New Bedford’s historic architecture and adapting old buildings to new uses, we can:
- Preserve the city’s architectural and multicultural heritage
- Foster economic growth and create workforce opportunities
- Stabilize neighborhoods and expand affordable housing
- Grow New Bedford’s arts and culture sector
Join WHALE today and help save the places that make New Bedford “not just anywhere”.
“I’ve read and heard about WHALE’s work for a long time, but it was the demolition of the beautiful, historic New Bedford YMCA (1974) that inspired me to join and support WHALE. Preservation is important and good for the communtiy, and WHALE does a really good job. For example, the First Baptist Church restoration, and it’s a relief to see that building come back to life.”
Joanne Cameron, Mattapoisett
Memberships
Membership Levels
Family – $50
Individual – $35
Student/Senior – $25
Advocate – $100
Supporter – $250
Champion – $500
Partner – $1,000, $2,500 or $5,000
Become a Partner in Preservation
Our most generous members, WHALE’s Partners in Preservation believe in the transformative impact historic preservation has on the city today and for generations to come. Meet the WHALE Partners in Preservation.
Contributions of $1,000 or more receive a 50% MA Tax Credit, reducing your out-of-pocket donation by half. Out-of-State donors receive a 50% cash rebate.
Learn How to Receive Your Tax Credit or Rebate
Meet the WHALE Partners in Preservation