Stewart’s Shops/Dake Family Give $100,000 Grant for Expansion of 4-H Training Center

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga County 4-H is receiving $100,000 from the Stewart’s Shops/Dake Family for their 4-H Lead the Legacy Campaign to raise funds for a new educational facility at the Saratoga County 4-H Training Center in Ballston Spa. The Center is used by 4-H youth clubs and for community events and attracts over 12,000 youth each year. 

“It’s an honor that Stewart’s Shops and the Dake Family Foundation found this project to be worthy of such a donation, but not unexpected. Stewarts has always been a strong supporter of agriculture and 4-H, including providing support for the original 4-H Training Center back in 1980. They continually see our ‘worth’ by funding countless projects through the annual Stewart’s Holiday Match Program,” said Gregory Stevens, 4-H Extension Issue Leader.

The facility is located at 556 Middle Line Road in Ballston Spa. Originally built in 1988, they have outgrown their current building. The new multi-functional facility will offer more space and will break ground in Spring 2023. The expansion will include 3,780 square feet of additional classroom space, a dedicated space for STEM space to host robotics teams, additional restrooms, and community event space. 

According to Susan Dake, Stewart’s Shops Foundation President, “Stewart’s Shops/Dake Family are longtime supporters of the 4-H, and we are proud to support the education they provide for our youth.”