SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – The Dake Foundation for Children has announced that five nonprofit organizations have been selected as the inaugural recipients of their newly formed Community Grants program. Founded by Gary Dake, President of Stewart’s Shops, the Foundation has provided grants to local children with disabilities since 2009 with a focus on inclusion, independence, and fun. In 2023, the organization announced plans to increase its impact by supporting local 501c3 nonprofit organizations seeking to make their spaces or programming more accessible and inclusive.

“In this first-time effort, our board of directors was so impressed with the thoughtful proposals we reviewed,” said Dake Foundation for Children Executive Director Sarah Burns. “Our nonprofit partners are invested in the betterment of our community and know firsthand the positive impact their spaces and programs will have with increased accessibility. Together, we are building more opportunities for all community members to experience independence, empowerment, and dignity.”

The Dake Foundation for Children’s Community Grants Program recipients are:

· Double H Ranch, Lake Luzerne, NY – Funding will support their Winter Adaptive Sports Program, providing winter recreation opportunities for children ages 6-16 with life-threatening and chronic illnesses.

· Southern Adirondack Independent Living (SAIL), Queensbury, NY – Funding will be used to purchase Access Trax, equipment that makes events, beaches, parks, and other outdoor venues more accessible for wheelchair users.

· Bring On The Spectrum, Albany, NY – Funding will support equipment and other necessities for their Autism Fitness Program.

· Wilton Emergency Squad, Saratoga Springs, NY – Funding will purchase “Carter’s Kits” that contain items designed to help soothe and calm children with varying communication and sensory needs during their interactions with first responders.

· Southwestern Vermont Medical Center Early Intervention, Bennington, VT – Funding will support the purchase of audiology equipment that will detect hearing loss in young children.

This year, the Dake Foundation for Children is celebrating 15 years of service to the community, culminating in an anniversary celebration fundraiser on May 29, 2024 on the grounds of Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

For more information on the event, their grant programs, or to learn more about the Dake Foundation for Children, please visit their website at http://www.dakefoundation.org.

The Dake Foundation for Children was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization to help children with disabilities access opportunities unavailable through medical insurance and family budgets. Their goal is to provide children with disabilities access to equipment and services that will give them more opportunities for participation within their families, communities, and with their peers.