Leaders from Prominent Grantmaking Institutions Gather in La Porte to Witness Local Philanthropy’s Impact
Dozens of influential leaders representing prominent grantmaking institutions from across Indiana converged in La Porte County on June 8-9 to experience firsthand the transformative power of local philanthropy in the community. Hosted by the Indiana Philanthropy Alliance (IPA), a nonprofit membership association representing Indiana foundations that invest over $2 billion annually for social causes, this two-day board meeting marks the first time the IPA has chosen Northwest Indiana as its meeting location.
“This gathering is a testament to the tremendous potential that philanthropy holds in transforming communities,” said Claudia Cummings, President and CEO of IPA. “La Porte and Michigan City are vibrant cities with so much to offer, and I eagerly look forward to experiencing the impact philanthropy has had firsthand.”
Unity Foundation of LaPorte County and Healthcare Foundation of La Porte (HFL) hosted the meeting. IPA Board Chair Maggi Spartz of Unity Foundation expressed her excitement, saying, “Through our collaborative efforts, we have witnessed tangible change and progress, and we are eager to share these inspiring stories with our esteemed colleagues from across Indiana.” Maria Fruth of HFL and IPA board member, added, “We are delighted to host the IPA Board meeting at HFL Conference & Learning Center. This is a great opportunity to welcome members from throughout the state and showcase the philanthropic work in our community.”
During their stay, foundation executives had the opportunity to savor a delightful dining experience along the picturesque Lake Michigan shoreline. The first day’s itinerary also included visits to notable Michigan City locations such as the future site of the large-scale multi-use facility at You Are Beautiful property, the esteemed Lubeznik Center for the Arts, views of the iconic lighthouse from the Washington Park Zoo, the NIPSCO coal generating station, Mount Baldy at Indiana Dunes National Park, the STAR Center, a cutting-edge nonprofit co-working space, and the site of the ambitious $500 million South Shore Double Track NWI project.
On day two, attendees experienced the City of La Porte and embarked on kayaking, biking, and walking tours to explore various community investments made possible through visionary project planning and strategic investments from Healthcare Foundation of La Porte. Notably, these projects have had a profound impact on La Porte’s natural infrastructure, making it easier for active living and enjoyment of the lake life the City of La Porte offers. Attendees explored a variety of HFL-funded Healthy Living projects, including the Chessie Trail, a walking and biking path that connects the Kiwanis Teledyne Park to NewPorte Boulevard, Clear Lake Trailhead and boardwalk, and Stone Lake Beach with its accessible kayak launch and new beach access mat. Attendees also experienced Unity Park, a two-acre park on the shore of Pine Lake, dedicated in 2016 as a gift to the City from the Unity Foundation of La Porte County.
For more information about Indiana Philanthropy Alliance and its mission to connect and empower effective philanthropy in Indiana, please visit www.inphilanthropy.org.
About Indiana Philanthropy Alliance
Indiana Philanthropy Alliance (IPA) is the largest association empowering effective philanthropy in Indiana. Comprising foundations, corporations, and other social investors, IPA leads the way in fostering impactful investments. Each year, philanthropy in Indiana contributes over $2 billion in support of nonprofits and causes that drive success in crucial areas such as education, health, housing, human services, workforce development, arts, and culture.
About Unity Foundation of La Porte County
Since 1992, Unity Foundation of La Porte County has served donors, nonprofits and local communities. As La Porte County’s community foundation, it manages $40 million in assets, administers more than 350 charitable funds, and has distributed more than $23 million through direct grants and scholarships. The Council on Foundations has deemed Unity Foundation in compliance with all Indiana and national ethical and operating standards for community foundations. Unity Foundation’s mission is to strengthen La Porte County now and forever by building permanent endowments; providing leadership; offering philanthropic vehicles for everyone; and being a catalyst for social and economic vitality. For more information, please visit www.uflc.net or call 219-879-0327.
About Healthcare Foundation of La Porte
The mission of Healthcare Foundation of La Porte (HFL) is to empower La Porte County residents to live healthy and well. The foundation’s vision is for La Porte to be among the 10 healthiest communities in Indiana by 2030. Since 2017, HFL has invested more than $38 million in the La Porte County community. To learn more about how HFL supports the community, visit hflaporte.org, call 219.326.2471, or email contact@hflaporte.org.
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