IPA Showcases La Porte's Community Investments
IPA Board Gathers in La Porte to Witness Local Philanthropy's Impact
Dozens of philanthropic leaders representing IPA member organizations from across Indiana converged in La Porte County on June 8-9 to experience firsthand the transformative power of local philanthropy in the community.
This two-day board meeting marks the first time IPA has chosen Northwest Indiana as its meeting location. The meeting was hosted by Unity Foundation of LaPorte County and Healthcare Foundation of La Porte (HFL).
"This gathering is a testament to the tremendous potential that philanthropy holds in transforming communities," said Claudia Cummings, IPA President and CEO. "La Porte and Michigan City are vibrant cities with so much to offer, and we are all excited to experience the impact philanthropy has had firsthand."
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 savored 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, Unity Foundation's 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.