The Merrillville-based Legacy Foundation’s Annual Celebration Aug. 19, was an evening of recognition and community pride.
Guests gathered to celebrate a year of growth and impact in Lake County, honor community leaders with the Heart of Lake County Awards and reflect on milestones.
The foundation celebrated:
- Raising $9.3 million in donations and the Lilly Endowment GIFT VIII match.
- Partnering with organizations to support projects like the Tolleston Opportunity Campus, expanded food pantries, youth arts access and preservation of Marquette Park.
- Securing a $20 million Lilly Endowment grant for NWI Thrive, expanding trails and connecting communities across the Region.
- Announcing a $1.1 million grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and Press Forward to strengthen local journalism and civic engagement.
- Celebrating Cedar Lake as Indiana’s first Heart & Soul community, engaging residents to shape their town’s future.
- Awarding $6.6 million in grants and scholarships, supported by 792 donors.
- Growing managed assets to $130 million — a 55% increase in 18 months.
The foundation also recognized community changemakers with Heart of Lake County Awards. Winners included:
- Community Spirit – Dr. Michael McGee
- Excellence in Nonprofit Board Leadership – Beth Casbon
- Corporate Philanthropy Award – Centier Bank
- Gold Key – Dana Rifai
The Legacy Foundation also thanked attendees for believing in Lake County’s potential.
