There’s a magical place like no other right on the border of Saratoga County: Double H Ranch in Lake Luzerne. This haven for seriously ill children and their families offers free specialized programs and year-round support designed to create a wonderful place where kids can just be kids, and also receive around-the-clock medical care.
Double H is currently preparing to welcome nearly 900 children to the Ranch this summer, gearing up for their fun and kid-friendly annual gala (a must-attend event!), and raising funds for some overdue building renovations with their first Capital Campaign in Ranch history.
Committed to Health & Happiness For 25 Years And Counting
Over 60,000 children with life-threatening illnesses have been served since Double H Ranch opened its doors on July 4, 1993. The brainchild of Charles R. Wood, a major philanthropist in the area for many years, and Paul Newman, a renowned actor and entrepreneur, Double H is part of the SeriousFun Children’s Network, a global network of camps that offer recreational and therapeutic experiences for kids living with a serious illness.
All programs and services that Double H provides are free of charge for these kids and their families, and include:
A Summer Camp Full of Outdoor Adventures and Lasting Memories
From June through the end of August Double H, located on beautiful Lake Vanare, offers kids with critical illnesses a true Adirondack summer camp getaway where they can experience the simple joys of childhood as they participate in a high ropes course, archery, horseback riding, fishing, and more. There are eight summer residential camp sessions lasting six days each, open to ages 6 to 16 (and 17 to 21 during the alumni season).
The camper to staff ratio is an incredible 2:1, and there is a fully equipped medical facility that is staffed 24 hours a day, allowing kids to tackle new adventures they might not otherwise get to do, away from their traditional caregivers and families.
Although many people associate Double H solely with this amazing summer camp program, the non-profit organization actually provides programs, services, and support all year round.
An Adaptive Winter Sports Program That Tackles the Thrill of Downhill
The winter program gives the kids a chance to participate in various winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Volunteer instructors work with Double H and the National Ski Patrol to teach these children a life-long skill and provide a rewarding experience they can enjoy with their family.
Spring and Fall Family Weekends Where Fun Is On The Schedule
In the spring and fall Double H offers camp-based family programming for a weekend, sometimes collaborating with other nonprofits in the process.
A Camp Experience On The Go With The Hospital Outreach Program
For some children going to camp may not be a possibility due to lengthy or frequent hospitalizations. In this case, Double H can bring camp to them! Through the Hospital Outreach Program, Double H brings camp to a hospital or other medical-based setting.
The Double H Ranch Gala Puts the Fun in Fundraising
The always exciting Double H Ranch Gala is happening this year on Saturday, June 24th at the Great Escape and you won’t want to miss it!
Just like Double H, the gala is all about the kids. A kid’s ticket gets them admission to the park, a kid-friendly dinner, tickets to play games, a tee-shirt, and snacks. Adults aren’t left out of the fun either! Adult tickets include delicious appetizers, refreshing cocktails, and the always popular silent auction.
This event is the biggest fundraiser Double H puts on all year, and typically draws over 700 fun-seeking guests. Get your tickets!
The Camp’s Ongoing Renovations Continue
Double H is aiming to raise $3.5 million with their first-ever Capital Campaign to complete essential renovations. Many of the buildings are outdated and need to meet current codes and regulatory requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
A total renovation of the Beaver & Eagle Cabin was just completed this month. The next phase of the project will be the demolition and reconstruction of the Raccoon Cabin, which is scheduled to begin this August.
These renovations are incredibly important to the safety and comfort of the camp kids, as well as the counselors, volunteers, medical staff, and families. Without updated, current cabins and buildings Double H wouldn’t be able to provide the important, free-of-charge services they do for these families.
Learn more about Double H Ranch and how you can help >>
Editor’s Note: Saratoga.com and its parent company, Mannix Marketing, Inc., proudly sponsor, support and volunteer at Double H Ranch.
