Lakeshore PBS’ Friends & Neighbors series, which highlights Northwest Indiana organizations and businesses that went above and beyond during the pandemic, has landed state broadcasting honors.

The Indiana Broadcasters Association awarded Lakeshore PBS with the Cardinal Community Service Award.

“The unprecedented events of the past year means more and more Hoosiers rely on Indiana TV and radio stations for information to keep safe and informed,” said Dave Arland, IBA executive director.  “But beyond the critical up-to-date local news, Indiana broadcasters provided critical resources and put forth unique efforts to support local businesses, schools, and the communities they serve.”

The IBA annually honors the community service of its membership with the Cardinal Community Service Award. Named after the state bird, the awards recognize community service of IBA’s members. 

In 2021, more than 70 stations were recognized for efforts in their communities.

“Friends & Neighbors spotlights great people and great organizations that work to improve our communities,” said James Muhammad, president and CEO of Lakeshore Public Media.  “Our goal during the early days of the pandemic was to continue to bring local stories to our audience (and) our Production team was able to find many, many examples of people and groups helping others during these challenging times.”  

Segments for the local series included features on Tradewinds in Merrillville, InHealth, Signature Banquets and George’s of Lowell, YMCA, the city of Crown Point and the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana.

Lakeshore PBS has won the Cardinal Award the past three years.

 “To be recognized by our fellow Indiana Broadcasters four years in a row is a tremendous honor for our station and the team that worked so hard to make this effort happen,” Muhammad said. “It validates our commitment and our efforts to serve our audience and provide opportunities to have a real impact in our communities.”