$4 million raised so far to support facility improvements
The Friends of Hamilton County Extension has officially launched the public phase of its fundraising campaign to support improvements at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds, part of the Silos @ 37 Hamilton County: 4-H Fairgrounds and Events Center project.
The campaign kickoff coincided with the organization’s “Denim & Diamonds” event on Friday, March 6 where early donors were honored, including foundation donors Sonny and Glendia Beck and the Beck Foundation, Gary Reynolds and the Reynolds Family, and Charlotte and Forrest Lucas.
Gary Reynolds (left) and Sonny Beck (right), two of the generous early donors to the project, each spoke during the March 6 Denim & Diamonds fundraiser at the 4-H Fairgrounds in Noblesville. (Photos provided)
Several Seed Gift Partners were also recognized, including Hamilton County Tourism, Riverview Health Foundation, Duke Energy, Hamilton County Farm Bureau, Hamilton County Extension Homemakers, and the Hamilton County Master Gardeners.
“It was a wonderful evening to gather with people who value Extension and want to see it continue to thrive in Hamilton County,” said David Day, Chairman of the Friends of Hamilton County Extension Board. “We’ve made great progress, but there’s more work ahead, and we welcome anyone who wants to be part of this effort.”
Phase 1A of the project – a $15 million investment funded by Hamilton County – was completed this fall and includes improvements to the exhibition center and llama barn as well as construction of a new Bicentennial Pavilion.
Future phases of the project include the construction of a new multi-purpose show arena, expanded educational classroom, and the development of additional climate-controlled buildings to support year-round programming. Plans also call for enhanced entrance features and the replacement of aging structures.
To date, the Friends of Hamilton County Extension has raised more than $4 million in donations, grants, and pledges to support ongoing improvements. For more information, including donation and naming opportunities, email friendsofhamcoextension@gmail.com or call (463) 254-2022.
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