Extension awarded $250K grant for Trolley Building revitalization, Community Collaboration Initiative

Photo courtesy of Robert Batt: The Trolley Building at the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds will get a big upgrade through a grant from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation.

Press Release, Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension

KNOWLESVILLE – Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension is pleased to announce it has received a $250,000 grant from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation to fund significant improvements to the Trolley Building at the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds and launch a new community collaboration program aimed at strengthening connections across the county.

The Trolley Building, a key four-season facility on the fairgrounds originally constructed in 1966, will undergo essential upgrades, including comprehensive bathroom renovations, furnace improvements, and the replacement of existing flooring.

In tandem with the physical upgrades, the grant will facilitate a new community collaboration project centered around a “Collaboration Café.” This initiative will feature monthly speakers addressing topics relevant to county needs, enhancing and adding to already existing vital platforms for local non-profit organizations to network, learn, and discuss ideas.

The goal is to foster further teamwork and advance innovative solutions stemming from these presentations and discussions.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation for this generous support,” said Robert Batt, executive director of Orleans CCE. “These improvements will not only modernize a cherished community asset but also provide a crucial gathering space for non-profits to work together more effectively for the public good of Orleans County.”

To further support local community efforts, Orleans County non-profits actively involved in county-wide networking efforts (such as the Capacity Café, Human Service Council, or monthly non-profit Hub call) will be granted no-cost use of the Trolley Building and the Education Center through 2029 for meetings, classes, and other events that serve the public good. Eligible organizations must meet standard contract and insurance requirements.

This opportunity allows CCE Orleans to further commitment to creating a stronger and healthier community through learning initiatives that build skills in everything from nutrition to farming & gardening to youth development to digital literacy.