Friends of the Upper East Side Historic Districts, founded in 1982, is an independent, not-for-profit membership organization dedicated to preserving the architectural legacy, livability, and sense of place of the Upper East Side. FRIENDS was created to be a source of information and encouragement for property owners, and an active participant in public decisions that affect the historic and cultural resources of the Upper East Side. FRIENDS regularly monitors, attends and testifies before the Community Board, Landmarks Preservation Commission, City Planning Commission, Public Design Commission and City Council, acting as community advocate to encourage appropriate development on the Upper East Side. FRIENDS also works hard to educate the public. We hold lectures, sponsor walking tours, and give annual awards for community service and outstanding preservation projects. Additionally, we offer educational programming for 1st through 5th graders, focusing on the appreciation of the built environment and neighborhood history. Our goal is to stimulate an interest in architecture, history, and preservation in children at a young age, while also instilling a sense of community pride and awareness.