Courtesy Double H Ranch
The Double H Ranch in Lake Luzerne is embarking on a $5.5 million capital campaign project to support four areas—a new residential lodge, an new adaptive playground, and expansion of the outdoor pavilion expansion and Camp-A-Theater.
Backed unanimously by its board of directors, the Double H Ranch has secured $5 million of its goal.
It will be the ranch’s second capital campaign. It is led by Lisa and Robert Moser, who launched the campaign with a $1.5 million leadership gift.
“Double H Ranch wouldn’t be possible without the support of our community. We are grateful for the individuals, foundations, businesses, and organizations that have provided generous funding in the initial stage of our campaign. We are inspired by the progress we have made and look forward to meeting our campaign goal in 2023 with the help from our community,” said the Mosers.
Neil Golub, co-chair of the campaign, provided a $1 million challenge, matching gifts made by board members and early stakeholders.
“For those of us who have had the privilege of leading the Double H groundbreaking for new facilities, it has always been a source of enormous pride,” said Golub. “Every new facility ensures our longevity. Knowing that our kids will be attending a special place for mind, soul, and body gives us a very warm feeling.”
For over 30 years, the Double H Ranch has provided outdoor Adirondack adventures for children living with serious illnesses. During that time, over 80,000 children have visited the camp, where health challenges do not define them.
Officials said the capital campaign will secure funding to ensure a continued experience of excellence for children and their families who participate in the year-round programs offered at camp, provided at no charge.
The projects were identified in a Master Site Plan to address the critical need to replace or renovate existing structures that do not meet the needs of our programs.
The new Circle H Residential Lodge will offer year- round housing and help build program capacity. The current outdoor pavilion will be doubled in size to accommodate outdoor cabin gatherings, meals, and activities.
Dave Michaels, facilities committee and board member, said the new 12,075-square-foot residential lodge building will have 22 rooms with private bathrooms to allow 44 volunteers and counselors lodging during their stay at camp. It will also have kitchenettes, laundry, and common spaces inside and outdoors for social interaction.
New to the camp will be the Camp-A-Theater and Adaptive Playground. The Camp-A-Theater will be located at the heart of camp and will provide a large, outdoor gathering space for campers and counselors to congregate for morning assembly and talent shows.
It will be named the The RayMax Camp-A-Theater in honor of Max Yurenda, founding CEO, and Dr. Ray Walsh, founding volunteer physician.
The playground will be customized to the needs of campers. The playground has been supported through a gift from Business for Good and Lisa and Ed Mitzen. The new playground will give campers a unique space to freely engage with peers, participate in meaningful play, and build confidence in their own skills.
“For nearly 30 years, I have seen significant growth and improvements to enhance the campers’ experiences,” said D. Ross Sheridan, member of the board of directors and chair of the Facilities Committee.
Double H Ranch will have a phased construction timeline, with the outdoor pavilion expansion beginning this spring. The residential cabin and adaptive playground work will start in the fall.
“In order for Double H Ranch to continue to be successful, we must continue to improve the overall infrastructure to make it safe and comfortable. This Capital Campaign will help us ensure Double H Ranch will continue providing the safest experience for our campers for years to come,” said Charlie Crew, chairman of the board.
For more information, visit doublehranch.org.