ALBANY, N.Y. -- Stewart's Shops and its owners, the Dake family of Saratoga Springs, N.Y., were honored on Tuesday for their outstanding philanthropic leadership and extraordinary commitment to preserving and enhancing the quality of life in the community. The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region presented them with the C. Jordan Vail Spirit of Philanthropy award.
The award was presented at the foundation's annual Celebration of Philanthropy Luncheon, which celebrates the thoughtful generosity and spirit of giving throughout the Capital Region.
"[image-nocss] The Dakes have been leaders in helping our community grow through their ongoing commitment to children, families and the arts and cultural institutions in our region," said Karen Bilowith, foundation president and CEO. "We know they don't do this for the recognition but, rather, because of their deep commitment to our community. We honor them today because they are a shining example for others."
"On behalf of myself and my family, I am pleased to accept this award and hope that it encourages everyone in our community to feel the same responsibility to giving back that we do," said Bill Dake.
The Dakes partner with the foundation and, through a fund entrusted to the foundation, make grants to local institutions and organizations that they feel strongly about, including Skidmore College, Saratoga Care Foundation, Siena College, Saratoga Performing Arts Center and St. Peter's Hospital, among others.
Since 1968, The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region has provided a means for people who care about the community to be part of shaping its future. Currently, the foundation manages more than 340 funds with assets totaling $51 million, and has granted more than $36 million to not-for-profit organizations since inception. Through flexible donor services, strategic grantmaking and community leadership, the foundation helps people support the causes they care about, now and for generations to come. In 2010, this partnership resulted in nearly 900 grants to local and national organizations totaling more than $3 million.
Stewart's Shops is an employee- and family-owned convenience store chain based in Saratoga Springs. It is known for milk, ice cream, coffee, food to go, gasoline and more. There are 328 Stewart's Shops located in more than 30 counties across upstate New York and southern Vermont.
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