First State Bank Commits $75,000 to Support Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds Expansion

Elkhart County, IN — The Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds has announced plans for a transformative campus expansion project designed to enhance facilities, expand 4-H youth programming, and create new opportunities for community events and regional tourism.

First State Bank is proud to support this important initiative with a commitment of $75,000 over the next three years, reinforcing its dedication to investing in the future of local youth and the broader Elkhart County community.

The multi-phase project will significantly modernize and expand the Fairgrounds campus. Highlights of the expansion include construction of the Forest River Inc. & Peter J. Liegl Ag & Community Expo, a new 47,500-square-foot multi-purpose facility that will serve as the home for the swine club during the annual fair. The project also features the development of a Health & Wellness Center, expanded campground accommodations with additional full hook-up campsites, and improvements to several 4-H livestock barns.

In addition to these major enhancements, the project includes infrastructure upgrades across the campus to support long-term growth and increased year-round usage.

“First State Bank is thrilled to be part of this growth project,” said President & CEO, Joe Caffee. “The Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds plays a vital role in shaping youth development and strengthening community connections. We are honored to support efforts that will expand opportunities for generations to come.”

Groundbreaking for the expansion is scheduled for September 11, 2026, with completion anticipated by summer 2027, in time for the Elkhart County 4-H Fair. This investment reflects a shared vision to create a premier destination that celebrates agriculture, fosters youth leadership, and attracts visitors from throughout the region.