Saratoga Casino Hotel in New York state recently commemorated Giving Tuesday by awarding $120,000 to 12 Capital Region non-profit organizations at its annual Make a Difference holiday luncheon.
“Over 20 years later, this remains the event we look forward to most each year,” Saratoga Casino Hotel Vice President of External Affairs Skip Carlson said in a statement. “Supporting organizations that enhance the lives of so many — our guests, our team members, and the community at large — is a core value of our company and something our owners deeply believe in. We’re honored to be able to contribute.”
WAIT House Executive Director Jason McLaughlin expressed gratitude for the donation. The non-profit organization in Glens Falls, New York, provides emergency shelter and support services for homeless youth ages 16–24.
“At WAIT House, we witness every day the tremendous courage of homeless and vulnerable youth who come to us carrying the weight of trauma that no young person should ever have to endure,” McLaughlin said. “Some arrive after fleeing unsafe homes or chronic instability, while others are escaping the horrors of human trafficking and exploitation. They walk through our doors scared, exhausted, and often unsure if they can trust anyone again.
“This generous contribution directly strengthens our ability to surround these young people with safety, compassion, and hope. It helps us provide not just a warm bed, but the restorative care, advocacy, and support they need to heal and reclaim their futures. We are deeply grateful for this investment in the resilience, dignity, and well-being of the youth we serve.”
Theese organizations received a $10,000 donation at the event:
- AIM Services
- Capital Roots
- The Donna M. Crandall Memorial Foundation
- Folds of Honor
- Franklin Community Center
- Jake’s Help from Heaven
- Saratoga Hospital/CHC
- Saratoga Sponsor-A-Scholar
- SNACpack Program (Saratoga Nutrition Assistance for Children)
- Wait House
- Wellspring
- The Wesley Community
Established in 2004, the Make A Difference initiative is the company’s signature philanthropic effort, dedicated to recognizing and supporting local non-profit organizations. Saratoga Casino Hotel has contributed more than $3.7 million to charitable organizations across the Capital Region in New York.