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Latest Press Release and News from CCE Orange County:

CCE Orange County Holds Donor recognition Event in Otisville, Walden Savings Bank Makes Significant Investment

Middletown, NY – On Thursday, June 18, Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Orange County hosted the Because of You Donor Event at the Education Center & 4-H Park in Otisville, NY. The evening celebrated and honored past and present donors while highlighting the tremendous growth and development of the Park since its groundbreaking in 2013.

Guests had the opportunity to tour the facility, connect with fellow supporters, and see firsthand the impact their generosity has made on the Education Center & 4-H Park. Some significant milestones over the last several years include:

• Completion of the 70,000-gallon Rainwater Harvester Collection System, providing sustainable water resources for irrigation, animal care, and arena maintenance.
• Construction of the Livestock Wash Rack
• Creation of Justin Terrace in Memory of Mia, a beautiful educational garden connecting the Kosuga and Dairy Barns
• Continued growth of Gregg's Garden through our partnership with Access Supports for Living
• Expansion of programming, including initiatives such as All Aboard to the Fair, which connected youth and families from Newburgh, Middletown, and Port Jervis with agricultural education experiences at the Fair.
• The continued success of the Bountiful Harvest Celebration, which has become a cornerstone event supporting the future growth of the Park.

A highlight of the evening was the announcement of a significant leadership investment from Walden Savings Bank, which will support the future of the Education Center & 4-H Park through the naming of the Horse Barn. The Horse Barn serves as a cornerstone of Orange County 4-H’s equine programming, educational opportunities, and community events. During the ceremony, Orange County 4-H Horse Program members shared heartfelt words of appreciation, expressing how this investment will positively impact current and future participants.

CCE Orange County is deeply grateful for Walden Savings Bank’s generous support and for the continued commitment of all donors who help make educational programming, youth development opportunities, and community engagement possible. The organization looks forward to strengthening its partnership with Walden Savings Bank and continuing to build a vibrant future for the Education Center & 4-H Park.

“Walden Savings Bank has been a trusted community partner throughout Orange County for more than 150 years. Their commitment to strengthening our communities, supporting youth, investing in agriculture, and helping organizations like Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County thrive has left a lasting impact throughout the region.” Said Jill Van Aken, CCE Orange County Development Officer. “Their commitment extends far beyond financial support; they have been true partners in helping us create opportunities for future generations”

For more information about the Education Center & 4-H Park in Otisville and to learn more about how to get involved, visit https://cceorangecounty.org/education-center-and-4-h-park

Last updated June 18, 2026