Community Efforts and Collaborations in Northwest Indiana

Hard Rock Casino Supports TradeWinds Stage
The Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana announced a $100,000 donation for a performance stage at the TradeWinds Enrichment Center. This stage at their Merrillville location will host talent shows, choir performances, and community events, dedicated to empowering people with disabilities.

United Way Grants Aid Northwest Indiana
United Way Northwest Indiana has allocated $759,500 in Community Impact Grants. This funding helps 12 organizations address regional needs. Notable recipients include Appleseed Childhood Education with $70,000 and the Boys & Girls Club receiving $150,000, among others.

Franciscan Health Expands Food Access
Franciscan Health Dyer introduced an OrderAhead food locker, part of a partnership with the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana. It is located at the hospital’s Indiana/Illinois state line entrance. This refrigerated locker provides 24/7 access to food for individuals facing food security issues.

Indiana Dunes Tourism Grant Opportunity
Indiana Dunes Tourism offers grants to fund local projects and events attracting visitors to Porter County. Eligible entities include for-profit, non-profit, and government organizations. Applications are due by Nov. 6, with up to $5,000 available for community development projects.

New Cardiac Specialist in Michigan City
Dr. Ali Azeem, a cardiac electrophysiologist, joins the Franciscan Physician Network in Michigan City. He completed his medical education at Tufts University and his residency in Pittsburgh. Dr. Azeem is accepting new patients at the Franciscan Health Heart Center.

Opportunity Enterprises Recognized
Two Opportunity Enterprises members were honored by the Indiana Association for Rehabilitation Facilities. Cassie Stanley received the 2026 Pinnacle Award, and Meagan Toren was granted the 2026 Justin Dart Jr. Personal Achievement Award.

Statewide Literacy Training Initiative Launched
The AIM Institute for Learning & Research launched a training program with the Indiana Department of Education. Their Literacy Coaching Initiative connects evidence-based methods with the state’s educational goals. Four regional events included training for school-based coaches and leaders.

CLH’s Community Engagement
CLH, CPAs & Consultants, supported community events in LaPorte and Porter counties through various initiatives including Operation Feed LaPorte County. Their volunteer team assisted with distributing food and supplies, reinforcing their commitment to community service.