LIVES

Unity Foundation of La Porte County presents, 

POWER FOR GOOD... POWERFUL 

LIVES 

2 0 Y E A R S O F F R I E N D S H E L P I N G F R I E N D S 

Unity Foundation of La Porte County 2011–2012 Community Report

WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE? 

STORIES OF FRIENDS HELPING FRIENDS 

3 Our Vision and Mission 

4 Co-Chairmen’s and President’s Letter 

5 Board and Staff 

6 Unifying La Porte County Over 20 Years 

8 New Prairie: Activity Center Enriches Student Lives 

10 Rural Summit: Forging Friendships 

11 Couple Nourishes Roots While Serving Country 

12 Madeline Smrt: Decades of Building Friendships 

14 Pursuing A Calling 

14 Friends Since Toddlers 

15 A Treasured Friend, The Power of A Nickel 

16 Financial Summary 

17 Grant and Growth Distribution 

18 Investment in Our People 2012 

19 Lilly Scholars: Brittany and Mitchell 

20 Reading For Life: Unity and New Prairie Join Forces 

21 Grants Given For Good in La Porte County 

24 Funds: Friends Helping Friends 

31 Donors: Friends Helping Friends 

37 Friends: Helping Friends 

39 Gold Key Society 

BOOKMARK US AT WWW.UFLC.NET 

Join Our E–News List 

Contact us at: 

P.O. Box 527 

115 East 4th Street 

Michigan City, IN 46361-0527 

219.879.0327 • 888.898.6489 

219.210.3881 fax 

unity@uflc.net • www.uflc.net 

Unity Foundation is open 24 hours a day at our Web 

site, www.uflc.net. It’s the place to go when you want 

information on . . . 

• Unity • Issues • Ways to Give • Family of Funds 

• Scholarships • Grants • Professional Advisors 

• Online Giving 

Sign up for our E-Newsletter at www.uflc.net 

2 U N I T Y F O U N D A T I O N O F L A P O R T E C O U N T Y | C O M M U N I T Y R E P O R T 2 0 1 1 - 1 2

VISION AND MISSION 

OUR VISION FOR LA PORTE COUNTY 

We envision La Porte County to be a dynamic county, 

recognized for its investment in its people, economic 

vitality, and rich quality of life, and to be a model for 

innovative leadership and supportive citizenry. 

Created by ordinary citizens in 1992. 

OUR MISSION 

Unity Foundation will strengthen La Porte County 

now and forever by: 

• Building permanent endowments 

• Providing leadership 

• Offering philanthropic vehicles 

for everyone 

• Being a catalyst for social 

and economic vitality 

ABOUT OUR COVER: 

New Prairie United School Corporation students 

enjoy fun and fellowship after school at the Activity 

Center. Learn more on pages 8–9 about the exciting 

work occurring there, as “friends help friends” to 

benefit the students and the community. The Center 

was the happy beneficiary of a recent Unity grant. 

Cover photo by Ryan Juszkiewicz. 

The National Standards Seal by our name indicates official confirmation from the Council on Foundations that 

we have met the most rigorous standards in philanthropy. It affirms our commitment to financial security, 

transparency and accountability. It says our grantmaking includes an open, competitive process designed to 

address the changing needs of our community. The National Standards Seal also confirms our history of honoring donors’ wishes—to support 

the arts, cultivate gardens, save endangered species, cure illness, expand literacy, feed children—and support countless other important causes. 

GIVING TO UNITY 

Work with Unity to… 

• Have the spirit and intent of your 

charitable wishes honored 

• Give to remember or honor someone else 

• Receive maximum tax deduction and 

saving allowed by law 

• Help develop Unity’s funds to strengthen 

community 

• Accomplish charitable objectives in a 

variety of ways: 

- With our Simple Giving Program, 

electronic donations may be set up on a 

monthly, quarterly, semiannual or annual 

basis 

- Gift of stock, life insurance, property, etc. 

- Mention Unity Foundation in your will 

- Establish a fund to create an endowment 

and leave a permanent legacy 

- Contribute to existing funds—find your 

favorite on pages 24–30 

Look to Unity for… 

GETTING FROM UNITY 

• Personal attention and in-depth knowledge 

when trying to find the best fit for your 

charitable priorities, financial goals and 

personal preferences 

• Help establish, manage and administer a 

charitable fund 

• Help identify areas of greatest and unmet 

needs within the community 

• Help further your education through our 

many scholarships 

• Information on services from other 

non-profits that receive grants from or have 

endowment funds with Unity 

• Community awareness through the studies 

and information Unity collects and shares 

• Ways to volunteer 

U N I T Y F O U N D A T I O N O F L A P O R T E C O U N T Y | C O M M U N I T Y R E P O R T 2 0 1 1 - 1 2 3

FRIENDS HELPING FRIENDS 

CO–CHAIRMEN’S AND PRESIDENT’S LETTER 

Twenty years can seem like a lifetime in this instant message, breaking news society. For Unity, it’s merely a first step in a 

journey to make La Porte County a better place. 

When Unity Foundation opened in 1992, La Porte County’s vision was, “We envision La Porte County to be a dynamic 

county, recognized for its investment in its people, economic vitality, and rich quality of life, and to be a model for 

innovative leadership and supportive citizenry.” Those words are just as true today. It’s a vision that brought La Porte 

County together—along with new friendships. Friends helping friends. 

In 1991, friends from both Michigan City and La Porte were each going to start a community foundation. Each was 

responding to a call from our good friends at the Indianapolis-based Lilly Endowment Inc. to create a community 

foundation; it offered to match each dollar raised locally. 

Founding Unity Member Mike Brennan says: “I was there at the beginning. The consultant said if we didn’t come 

together as a county, we probably wouldn’t get funded. So we came together. That’s how we picked our name…Unity, 

because it truly was unifying.” 

Another Unity Founder and friend, Leigh Morris, told us, “To me it was a really important step in the process of 

normalizing relationships between Michigan City and La Porte. You go 20 years back and the separation between these 

two communities was much greater than it is today. I believe the creation of Unity Foundation was an important step in 

changing that in a positive way.” 

That’s how friends Brennan, Bob Gilmore, Ed Raab, Larry Reed, Bud Ruby, Phil 

Sprague, and Bob Schaefer of Michigan City began meeting with friends Ben Bortz, 

Fred Brust, Jack Gabbert, Fran Hiler, Fran Rumely Jones, Dan Lewis, and Leigh 

Morris of La Porte and rural areas. The concept, Phil Sprague used to say, was that 

“we were going to plant trees under which we’d never sit but future generations 

could.” Unity’s work helps people we’ll never know…Friends helping friends for 

generations to come. 

Long-time Unity Board member Ed Volk adds: “I joined the board later, but in 1992 

things looked very different. Thinking county-wide was a new concept. There were 

only a few county-wide organizations, we had “ two” of many groups. Today, we 

collaborate more than ever to get important things done. New challenges have arisen 

and Unity continues to be a champion for La Porte County.” 

We hope YOU become a Friend of Unity for the next 20 years! Join us as “friends 

helping friends.” 

Michael Brennan, Maggi Spartz, Edward L. Volk 


BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND STAFF 

Board members pictured left to right: 

Jerry Kabelin; Kim Sauers; Burton B. Ruby; Marti Swanson; Dr. Vidya Kora; Daryl L. Crockett; Michele Thompson; 

Jack L. Jones; Michael Brennan, Co-Chair; Maggi Spartz, President; Edward L. Volk, Co-Chair; Elizabeth Bernel; 

Jon Gilmore; Mary Lou Linnen; Ronald J. Ragains; Daniel E. Lewis; Jim Jessup. 

Staff members pictured left to right: 

Carol Pozos, Administrative Assistant (PT); Debbie Sellers, Program Assistant; Sandy Gleim, Vice President; 

Gabby Dziadkowiec, Development Assistant (PT); Warren Ransom, Professional Advisor Liaison (PT). 

Unity Associates: AFS, Inc., Applegate & Co., Figment Creative Group, Fund Evaluation Group, 

Ryan Juskiewicz, Renaissance, LLC., Rick Richards, Strategic Financial Group, Jennifer Warfel Juszkiewicz, 

Richard Warner Photography, Bob Wellinski 

Honorary Board Members: Fran Hiler, Robert Schaefer, Romona Hay 


UNITY FOUNDATION 

UNIFYING LA PORTE COUNTY OVER 20 YEARS OF GOOD WORKS 

In The Beginning... 

1990: GIFT Program 

launched by 

Lilly Endowment 

Foster Printing 

donates printing 

of first Unity 

brochure 

1991: Board Formed 

and Bob Schaefer named 

as 1st director on loan 

from NIPSCO 

2001: 

Moved into 

619 Franklin St. 

Michigan City 

Founding Board at 

kickoff held at 

historic Barker Hall 

1992: Horizon Bank 

donates 2nd office 

space for 8 years, 

Maggi Spartz 

hired as full 

time President 

Leadership & Convening 

• Comprehensive 

Community Studies 

• Literacy & Education 

• Homelessness 

• Health 

• Non Profit Capability 

Builder 

• Technical Support 

• Major Funders 

• Regional Initiatives 

• Rural & Agricultural 

Development 

2002: Unity 

hits 10 Years 

and families 

Celebrate! 

2007: Hit the 

$20 Million Mark! 

2007: 

Unity turns 

15-Debut of 

Pledge-a- 

Palooza 

2010: Preserving 

Beautiful Views 

Venture into 

Environment in 

a big way: 

Trail Creek 

Watershed Plan 

(Tale of 2 Creeks) 

2012: Move into 

115 East 4th Street 


1993: $80,000 awarded 

for 4 Demonstration 

Grants: Union Mills 

Mill Pond (The Little 

Town That Could) 

1993: 

Dunebrook 

was our 1st 

agency fund 

1994: 

Hit the 

$1 Million 

Mark! 

Met all GIFT 

Challenge Matches 

generously offered by 

Lilly Endowment Inc. 

GIFT=Give Indiana 

Funds for Tomorrow 

Leave a Legacy- 

Regional effort to 

promote planned giving 

1996: First 

Unity Grants 

awarded 

$26,000 to 

20 grantees 

1998: 

Hit the 

$5 Million 

Mark! 

Investment in People: 

Scholarships “Over 

$8 Million Given.” 

2000: Brought $18 

Million into region for 

education & literacy 

The Next 20 Years... 

1998: 

1st Lilly Scholars 

Mandy Marsh & 

Jada Anderson 


NEW PRAIRIE 

ACTIVITY CENTER ENRICHES STUDENT LIVES 

Unity, the New Prairie United School Corporation’s 

Activity Center, and the Dunes Learning Center 

Imagine a space half as large as a two-car garage. Now, fill it with 

75 elementary school children, fresh from a 20-minute bus ride. 

The decibel level is initially stunning. 

The Rolling Prairie Elementary children line up and enter in the 

front door of this space, the New Prairie United School Corporation’s 

Activity Center (AC). They 

“WE ARE 

TRYING 

TO GIVE 

THESE KIDS 

OPPORTUNITIES 

THEY CAN’T 

AFFORD ON 

THEIR OWN.” 

– Angie Hambling 

check in, grab their snack, hang 

their backpacks on hooks around 

the rooms and then tumble back 

outside to play soccer on the hill. 

“It’s all much better when it 

doesn’t rain,” explains Kregg Van 

Meter, the director of the AC. 

“Then they can be outside and 

calm down before I bring them in 

one class at a time.” 

That day, it rains. 

The kids come in and Van Meter diverts them into separate 

streams: kindergartners work on phonics, another grade has the 

computer lab. Some are in the reading room; others in the front 

hall playing learning games on iPads. Now there’s simply a 

constant hum of voices and tapping keys. 

The process is a magnificent exercise in diversion of energy, and 

Van Meter stands at the center, jovially and respectfully directing 

the streams. He never once has to tell the children to be quiet. 

Broadening Kids’ Horizons 

The AC began in 2009, to better serve elementary students who 

are struggling academically—especially those living in poverty 

or who are learning English as a second language. 

The program is entirely voluntary; students want to come. Van 

Meter explains, “If students are given better educational experiences 

outside of school, this improves their in-school experience.” 

The AC aims to broaden their horizons through 

initiatives such as its new teaching garden and area field trips. 


“We are trying to give these kids opportunities they can’t afford 

on their own,” says Angie Hambling, former principal of 

Rolling Prairie Elementary and a founder of the AC. “By giving 

them experiences beyond school, we never know what 

may spark their interests or change their lives, so we are always 

looking for good faith and wonderful opportunities for 

the kids.” 

Van Meter has no doubt activities like this have made permanent 

change for these children. He gestures to the simple 

white posters plastering the 

“BETTER 

EDUCATIONAL 

EXPERIENCES 

IMPROVE 

THEIR 

IN- 

SCHOOL 

EXPERIENCE.” 

– Kregg Van Meter 

walls of the AC. Each has a 

child’s name, school photo, and 

a list of questions about their favorite 

color, food and what they 

want to be when they grow up. 

“When they first start coming 

here, they usually say they want 

to be firemen or soccer stars, and 

that’s fine,” he says. “But as they 

spend more time here, their answers 

change. They get more 

specific. They want to be veterinarians 

or join the military.” This 

shows maturation, not only because 

the kids are getting older, 

notes Van Meter, but because they are learning that there are 

more opportunities for them. They are getting to know the 

world around them and trying to find their place in it. 

LEARNING TO APPRECIATE THE ENVIRONMENT 

When New Prairie Activity Center Director Kregg Van 

Meter arranged for a day trip to Mt. Baldy last spring, 

nearly half of the 40 students had never been to Lake 

Michigan. This isn’t really surprising, he explains, since 

their experiences are generally limited to school, a shop 

down the street, their home, and the Center. 

The Indiana Dunes Learning Center (IDLC) summer camp 

seemed like a perfect opportunity (www.duneslearningcenter.org). 

Their mission: to “provide an in-depth exploration 

of the dynamic relationship between people and their environments 

using the natural and cultural resources of the Indiana 

dunes region where nature and society co-exist.” 

That’s why John Slater, long-time educator at Rolling 

Prairie, advocated the program. He is assisted in the classroom 

by his wife, Jane, and they have long been invested 

in promoting environmental awareness at the school. 

“The Dunes are an ecosystem near us,” explain the Slaters, 

and “[the IDLC offers] an opportunity for students to learn 

what we can do regarding survival from cities, poor planning, 

pollution and things of that nature.” 

Adding Your 

Nick el’s Worth 

No matter what an organization’s 

goals—whether it provides 

housing or shelters animals (or 

protects the environment, supports 

the arts, awards scholarships, etc.)—it 

is individuals who ultimately benefit. 

Even though these groups help 

many, most work with few resources 

and need our support to continue 

their missions. 

Leave Unity in your will to build its Literacy Fund so 

that it can ‘forever’ support literacy efforts like the ones 

in Rolling Prairie and many others. 

The week-long, overnight camp consists of exploring 

rivers, identifying native wildlife and plants, wilderness 

hikes, and swimming in Lake Michigan. It’s a characterbuilding 

and educational opportunity for each participant. 

Changing Kids’ Lives 

Serendipitously, Unity had a friend who was deeply impressed 

by IDLC and wanted to sponsor children to visit. Unity approached 

the Activity Center, and 16 students attended last year. 

For most, it was their first time away from home. The trip 

was a rousing success, and these students, now in middle 

school, are better aware of their environment, have had a 

chance to be semi-independent, and are better prepared for 

the future. 


RURAL SUMMIT V 

FORGING FRIENDSHIPS TO IMPACT OUR COMMUNITIES 

Adding Your 


We should all listen to the 

voice inside us asking, 

“What are you doing in your 

own community?” 

As you consider your 

charitable goals now and in the 

future, keep in mind the many 

worthy organizations of Unity 

Foundation. If you set aside just 

five percent of your assets 

towards Unity (only five cents on 

every dollar), your legacy will be 

secure, knowing these organizations will be a 

power for good—permanently. 

“UNITY HELPS 

YOU GET THE 

BALL ROLLING. 

IT HAS 

BROUGHT 

PEOPLE 

TOGETHER 

WHO BEFORE 

DIDN’T KNOW 

HOW TO FIND 

EACH OTHER.” 

– Laurie Dittmar 

When Laurie Dittmar moved to Fish Lake from 

Rockford, Mich., over three years ago, the only person 

she knew was her new husband. But she loved the small, 

rural community in southeast La Porte County and was 

determined to get involved. 

As librarian at Fish Lake Library she had an opportunity 

to do just that, and when she found out about the annual 

Rural Summit funded by Unity Foundation, Dittmar 

signed up. 

It was through the Rural Summit and her involvement 

with civic organizations that Dittmar began meeting 

people, some of whom have become friends. 

When she walked into the meeting room for the Rural 

Summit in Wanatah, Dittmar said she was overwhelmed. 

Several representatives from every small 

town in La Porte County were there. 

“We’re smaller and don’t have the connections like 

some of the bigger communities. This was something 

that really helped,” said Dittmar. 

Also attending from Fish Lake was Dave Kaufman, 

who has been Lincoln Township Fire Chief in the 

small unincorporated community for 37 years. 

Unlike Dittmar, Kaufman said he knew about 80 

percent of the people at the Rural Summit. “For me, it 

was about renewing old acquaintances. I had dealt 

with a lot of the other folks before.” 

But the mix of experienced hands like Kaufman 

and new, enthusiastic members like Dittmar created 

an interesting dynamic. As ideas were kicked 

around, Kaufman was there to, as he put it, prevent 

people from getting a feeling of false hope. “We 

were talking about getting grants for the things we wanted to 

do, but not everybody can get a grant,” he said. 

Dittmar and Kaufman have also gotten to know each other 

through the Lincoln Township Improvement Committee, 

which seeks to improve the appearance of Fish Lake and 

Mill Creek. 

“What I’ve seen in my short involvement is that groups like 

Unity Foundation support efforts to strengthen communities 

in the area,” said Dittmar. “Unity helps you get the ball 

rolling. It has brought people together who before didn’t 

know how to find each other.” 

But with her new friends, some patience, a lot of work, and 

help from Unity, new-found friends like Dittmar and 

Kaufman now have a vision to guide them into the future. 


DAWN & LUKE GROSSMAN 

COUPLE NOURISHES LA PORTE COUNTY ROOTS WHILE SERVING THEIR COUNTRY 

A few years back, Dawn Weik Grossman was sitting in the 

lobby of a local bank waiting for her mother to complete 

some financial business. Grossman noticed a Unity 

Foundation brochure, picked it up and read it, then 

took it home to show her husband, Luke. 

They liked what they saw and decided Unity Foundation 

deserved their support. Over the years, 

the Grossmans have regularly contributed to 

the Foundation, through seven military 

assignments that have kept them away 

from home for nearly 20 years. 

variety of people from other nations and 

other military services. As a result, we have 

friends around the world.” 

Dawn has served 17 years as a civil servant 

working with military children from the United 

States and NATO countries. Currently, the 

Grossmans live in Germany where Luke has 

responsibilities with NATO and the U.S. Air 

But no matter where 

they are, the Grossmans 

tell anyone who asks 

“EACH 

YEAR, 

WE 

CHOOSE 

TO DONATE 

TO 

DIFFERENT 

RECIPIENTS 

THROUGH 

UNITY 

FOUNDATION.” 

that 

home is La Porte 

County, Ind. 

Col. Luke Grossman 

of La Porte is a pilot 

in the U.S. Air Force and his 

assignments have taken him to 

Germany, Japan, Turkey, 

Kosovo, Korea, Iraq and 

Afghanistan. He was born in 

Bloomington, but grew up in 

La Porte. Dawn was born in 

Michigan City and attended 

local schools. Both graduated 

– Dawn Weik Grossman 

from Indiana University and were married when Luke was 

an Air Force ROTC cadet and Dawn was in graduate 

school. 

“Never did we expect our lives to be so unique,” said Dawn. 

“Together and separately, we have interacted with an enormous 

Force. “The ability to work with, interact, host and entertain 

others goes back to our Hoosier roots,” said Dawn. “There 

is something to be said about Hoosier Hospitality and 

through our parents, friends and experiences, we learned it 

along the way.” 

She and her husband learned those values from their teachers, 

coaches, 4-H leaders, and music instructors in Michigan City 

and La Porte. They are forever grateful for that teaching, so 

when Dawn found that brochure for Unity Foundation, she 

and Luke thought it was a perfect way for them to give back 

to the community. 

“We recognize that along with our parents, La Porte County 

and Indiana gave us a solid and positive foundation,” said 

Dawn. “Each year, we choose to donate to different recipients 

through Unity.” 

But regardless of the recipient, she said there is always a 

connection to their lives. These include Michigan City 

Boys & Girls Club, Save the Dunes, 4-H, and La Porte 

County Symphony. 

“As a small thank you and a way to give back, and to encourage 

others, we’ve donated,” said Dawn. “It is our hope that other 

Hoosiers will benefit from living in La Porte County.” 

U N I T Y F O U N D A T I O N O F L A P O R T E C O U N T Y | C O M M U N I T Y R E P O R T 2 0 1 1 - 1 2 1 1

MADELINE SMRT 

DECADES OF BUILDING FRIENDSHIPS BENEFITS WEST SIDE NEIGHBORHOOD 

“WE STILL 

NEED 

TO MAKE 

SURE 

WE’RE 

DOING 

ALL 

THAT 

WE 

CAN.” 

– Madeline Smrt 


CHALLENGE MATCHES INSPIRE GIVING 

On a case-by-case basis, Unity Foundation’s Board of Directors 

challenges nonprofits or communities to build 

their endowment funds with a $1 for $2 cash match. 

Currently, Ivy Tech Pejic Campus Michigan City and 

the town of Westville are in Challenge Matches. 

“I FELT 

THIS 

WOULD 

BE THE 

THING 

THAT 

WOULD 

HELP THE 

WEST 

SIDE.” 

– Madeline Smrt 

Adding Your 


As the George & Madeline 

Smrt Neighborhood Center 

and the Unity Foundation 

demonstrate, it takes a dedicated 

effort today and a long term view 

to make the future better. The West 

Side now has a permanent 

endowment fund just to support 

that neighborhood. They would put 

your nickel to good use! 

Ivy Tech’s goal is 

to build its endowment 

fund by 

$100,000 and the 

Unity Foundation 

will make a 

$50,000 cash 

match over a 

three year period, 

ending in 2014. 

For life-changing educational organizations like Ivy 

Tech, we believe building more self sufficiency through 

endowments is critical. They’ll use their cash match to 

improve their building at 3714 S. Franklin St. 

In addition, the Westville 

Community 

Fund’s goal is to raise 

$25,000 and Unity will 

put $12,500 toward a 

community improvement 

project of their 

choice. Their challenge 

ends September 2013. 

Previous challenge match groups include Dunebrook, 

Samaritan Counseling Center, Junior Achievement, 

Boys & Girls Club, Women’s Care Center, and the La 

Porte County Family YMCA Child Care Center. 

Those groups and the people they serve all 

won…they raised a combined $567,000 in funds for 

tomorrow’s needs through the ‘miracle of endowments.’ 

And for their urgent needs, they earned 

$275,000 in cash matches! 

To make your gifts worth even more, consider supporting 

the Ivy Tech Pejic Campus Fund or the Westville Community 

Fund! 


PURSUING A CALLING 

SCHOLARSHIP OPENS DOORS TO POSITIVE CAREER PATH FOR FRIENDS 

When I was in high school, the term 

“brain drain” meant nothing to me. I had 

few concerns about the future of Indiana. I 

“UNITY 

GAVE 

ME 

THE 

RIGHT 

TO 

CHOOSE 

MY 

FUTURE” 

just knew that I wanted 

to go to Saint Mary’s 

College. But my parents, 

who already had 

one child in school, 

couldn’t afford the 

small, Catholic school. 

Therefore, I made 

finding and applying 

for scholarships a parttime 

job. 

This search brought me 

to Unity Foundation of 

La Porte County. I still 

remember picking up 

– Jennifer Warfel Juszkiewicz 

the phone and being told that I had received 

the Lilly Scholarship. 

Unity gave me the right to choose my future. 

A Process of Discernment 

The Lilly Scholarship meant I could attend 

my school of choice, and participate 

in their study abroad program in Ireland. 

The year in Ireland taught me that geography 

and culture may be different, but people 

are the same the world over. I returned 

to Saint Mary’s, double-majored in history 

and English literature, and graduated with 

highest honors. 

Since I didn’t have to jump into the workforce 

to pay off college debt, I was given 

valuable time to discern my calling. I began 

to freelance write, but realized writing wasn’t 

entirely fulfilling. Rather, I wanted to 

teach college English. So I received my 

Master’s degree from Notre Dame and 

have taught at 

Saint Mary’s 

for the past 

three years and 

PNC for two 

semesters. I 

now have begun my doctoral degree at Indiana 

University in Bloomington as part 

of their Composition, Literacy, and Culture 

Literature program. 

Creating Opportunities 

My generation is faced with what feels 

like a dearth of choices. We have one of 

the highest unemployment rates of any demographic: 

16 percent for 18–24 year 

olds. Many of us must forge our own way: 

starting a business or learning new skills. 

My husband, Ryan, and I decided to start a 

video production company, ElectroProductions, 

here in Indiana. He directs, produces 

and assembles production teams, while I 

copywrite and, occasionally, help produce the 

commercials, music videos and documentaries. 

We have the great privilege to show off 

companies and organizations in our area and I 

can continue practicing what I teach: writing 

clearly and for varied audiences. 

Unity has, in many ways, made my life 

here possible. They allowed me the freedom 

to find my own way. As we go forward, 

I hope to help others find reasons to 

choose this area as their home as well. 

FRIENDS SINCE TODDLERS: UNITY SCHOLARSHIPS HELP THEM BECOME NURSES 

When Jenna Schultz and Erika Richards met 

as toddlers, neither had any idea of the 

parallel lives they would lead. They became 

friends, they went to school together, and 

thanks to Unity Foundation, both received a 

financial boost to attend college. 

They progressed from playing house to 

graduating from Michigan City High School 

(Class of 2006) together. They also graduated 

together from the Ball State University School 

of Nursing (Class of 2011). 

“Absolutely it was an honor to receive a 

Unity Foundation scholarship,” said Schultz, 

24, who is an emergency room nurse at 

Memorial Hospital in South Bend. “The 

people who donate the money helped make 

it possible for me to go to school.” 

Richards immediately enrolled at Ball State 

after high school, but Schultz attended a year 

at Indiana University-Purdue University in 

Indianapolis. When she transferred to Ball 

State, she wound up on the same floor in 

the dormitory with Richards. “People in 

our nursing classes couldn’t believe it,” 

said Richards. 

The idea that two people who met as 

toddlers would graduate from college in 

the same nursing class is a topic 

that continues to amaze their 

friends. Schultz and Richards both 

laugh about it, and even though 

they’re on opposite ends of the state, 

they say there is a bond that will 

always connect them. 

Both say their opportunity to pursue a 

career they love began by filling out an 

application with Unity Foundation, 

asking for some financial help. 

“Unity Foundation is doing a great 

thing,” said Richards. 

Erika and Jenna 


A TREASURED FRIEND 

UNITY PARTNERS JOIN TO PRESERVE PINE LAKE VISTA 

1010 Pine Lake Avenue is a “two acre treasure” 

that will keep the view of La Porte’s Pine 

Lake open for generations to come. The project 

began in 2010 

“OUR 

when someone 

noticed the “For 

ROLE 

Sale” sign and 

HERE IS 

asked, “What’s 

going to go 

TO GET 

there?” At the 

same time, the 

THINGS 


was looking to 

GOING 

make an even 

AND 

greater community 

impact. With 

COORDINATE the support of 

many others, the 

ACTION.” 


– Maggi Spartz stepped up as 

quarterback for 

this project that no one group could do alone. 

During 2012, the Love Our Lakes volunteers 

have been delighted with the excitement this project has generated. 

Most exciting are financial commitments of $820,000 toward our 

$1.2 million goal! Reaching this goal will mean that the property is 

paid for, readied for transfer, and a maintenance endowment fund 

is in place. Support comes from a growing list individuals, families, 

businesses, clubs, foundations and grants. 

The property itself is starting to take shape. In 2011, the La Porte 

Park Foundation organized initial clean-up by demolishing unsightly 

garages and removing rubble. In 2012, a grant from the 

Northwest Indiana Construction Advancement Foundation provided 

concrete work on the seawall 

and demolition of a small 

building. Thankfully, we had 

volunteers step up to cut grass 

and continue clean-up. We continue 

to work on plans to get the property ‘ready’ to gift it to the 

La Porte Parks. 

The ability to save a part of one of La Porte's greatest treasures is a 

once in a lifetime opportunity. Be a part of it! Consider supporting 

this Love Our Lakes project today! 

THE POWER OF A NICKEL IN LA PORTE COUNTY 

Wouldn’t it be nice if 

100 years from now 

the people in your 

community appreciated 

something you 

did? Don’t think 

it can happen? 

Others have 

done it, like John 

Barker or Maurice 

and Herbert Fox. 

Only you don’t have 

to be as wealthy as the 

Barkers or Foxes…In 

fact it only takes a 

nickel! 

Think of your home, 

bank account(s), investments, life insurance, 

401(k), IRA, etc. It is estimated 

that in the next 10 years, $1.5 billion 

of money and property (together called 

assets) will be passed on from residents 

of La Porte County to descendants, 

relatives, friends, charities, and 

(too much!) to the government. If we 

all increased the amount to charities by 

giving assets to be set aside forever, we 

would be just like the Barkers and 

Foxes. You may reduce taxes and control 

what is “given” to the government 

and what stays here, in your own community. 

Let’s say we set a goal to give one 

dollar of every twenty to be permanently 

used for our community’s future. 

That’s only 5% but collectively 

amounts to $77 million. These assets 

will generate nearly $4 million to be 

used every year to improve lives in La 

Porte County. Now add your name 

next to Barker and Fox! 

There are many ways to do this and a 

Professional Advisor can help. The 

staff at Unity also helps provide confidential 

and free assistance. 

So, if everyone would leave a shiny 

nickel for every dollar they have accumulated…to 

the community where 

they have been supported…La Porte 

County will have a brighter future! 


FINANCIAL SUMMARY 2011 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AT DECEMBER 31, 2011 

ASSETS 

Cash and Cash Equivalents $57,594 

Other Current Assets 2,830 

Equipment (Net of Depreciation) 1,241 

Investments 19,566,161 

Other Assets 88,981 

Total Assets $19,716,807 

LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS 

Payables $32,144 

Other Current Liabilities 133,676 

Total Liabilities $165,820 

Unrestricted Net Assets 1,999,609 

Temporarily Restricted Net Assets . 

Permanently Restricted Net Assets 17,551,378 

Total Net Assets $19,550,987 

Total Liabilities and Net Assets $19,716,807 

Consolidated Statement of Activity for the Year Ended December 31, 2011 

REVENUES, GAINS AND OTHER SUPPORT 

Investment Income 

Interest and Dividends $469,718 

Net Realized and Unrealized Investment Gains (715,453) 

Administrative Fees Earned 18,133 

Contributions and Grants 1,131,538 

Management Fees (self-charged) 255,378 

Subrental Income 9,420 

Change in Value of Charitable Remainder Trusts (2,201) 

Total revenues, gains and other support $1,166,533 

EXPENSES 

Grant Program $923,119 

Supporting Services 760,726 

Total expenses $1,683,845 

CHANGE IN NET ASSETS $(517,312) 

The above represents condensed financial data for the year ending 

December 31, 2011 as provided by Applegate & Co. CPAs. A complete 

audit report is available upon request. The Unity Foundation of 

LaPorte County, Inc., is a tax-exempt public charity under IRS Code 

Section 501 (c) (3). 

As reported by our independent investment advisors, Fund Evaluation 

Group, Inc., the returns for permanent assets under management (as of 

12/31/11) were -1.9% vs. our peer group benchmark of +2.0%. The 3- 

year return was 12.2% vs. our benchmark of 11.9%. The 5 year return 

was 2.3% vs. a benchmark of 1.8%. 


GRANT DISTRIBUTION 2011 

Community Fund Grants 2011 – $196,893 

Environment & 

Recreation 

1% 

Youth Development 

15% 

Community 

Development & 

Philanthropy 

4% 

Arts & Culture 

6% 

Human Services 

22% 

Education 

Programs 

41% 

Health 

11% 

Human Services 

12% 

Health 

12% 

Environment & 

Recreation 

3% 

All Grants 2011 – $964,065 

Youth Development 

8% 

Religious 

2% 

Community 

Development & 

Philanthropy 

12% Animal 

Related 

1% 

Education– 

Scholarships 

19% 

Arts & Culture 

3% 

Asset Growth—All Funds 

Education Programs 

& Teacher Grants 

28% 

Grants & Scholarships Awarded 


INVESTMENT IN OUR PEOPLE 2012 

GENEROUS DONORS FURTHER STUDENT DREAMS OF HIGHER EDUCATION 

Agricultural Scholarship - 

Nolan Sampson, Leslie Thomas 

Diane Kay Bamberth Memorial Award - 

Martin Garcia, James O’Neal, 

Courtney West 

Gustav J. and Elma A. Banzhaf 

Memorial Award - Jessica Bealor, 

Megan Campos, Briana Davis, 

Breanne Dugan, Kala Erickson, 

Tom Feldt , Jessica Menke, Staci 

Mrozinski, Megan Nix, Nicholas 

Rehlander, Carissa Sass, Drake 

Wisser 

Bensz Family Scholarship - Catherine 

Huynh, Kayla Nelson, Karmyn 

Walker 

Lloyd G. and Betty Jane Clayton 

Scholarship - Nathan Mills, Daniel 

Struebing 

William Vernon Compton Scholarship - 

Jacob Archambault 

Cunningham Scholarship - 

Cole Stephens 

Anne H. Daley Youth Service Bureau 

Scholarship - Carissa Sass 

Ernest and Mildred Delco Scholarship - 

Virginia Borolov, Sarah 

McCullough, Kyle Nole, Kelly 

Salyer 

Carley Dickard Memorial Scholarship - 

Kelsie Zawada 

Dr. and Mrs. Carl N. Fischer Scholarship - 

Melanie Beres, Jessica Kuiphoff 

Gail’s Gift Scholarship - 

Megan Daurer, Stephanie Egle, 

Lindsay Kreighbaum, Ian Schult, 

Peyton Webb 

James J. Guerrucci Music Award - 

Andrew Steck 

Harold and Rowena Hargrave 

Scholarship - Heather Voorhees 

Hiler Scholarship - Diana Garcia, 

Kelly Kincaid, Cesar Medina, 

Natalie Pope 

Ruth M. Howe Scholarship - 

Haley Roberts, Britney Severs 

Dr. King S. Jones Memorial Scholarship - 

Evan Schmidt 

Arthur and Alice Kabelin Scholarship - 

Yana Alekseeva, Halie Hajek, 

Heather Mead, Isaiah Owen, 

Carter Perry 

Kabelin Family Scholarship - 

Erin Howard, Kyle Richard 

K.A.T. Volunteer Scholarship - 

Brea Llorens 

Harry L. Kelling Memorial Scholarship – 

Andrew Bartels, Kathryn Kruse, 

Stuart West 

LaPorte County Nursing Scholarship - 

Jenna Burke, Taylor Dye, Rebecca 

Ehrick , Megan Eggert, Sarah 

Mumma, Julio Reyes, Spencer 

Sacks, Raelynn Tannehill, Eva 

Williamson, Clare Wisthoff 

Robert E. LeRoy Scholarship - 

Amanda Barteczko, Adam Hawkins 

Marylouise Lundgren Lossing Scholarship - 

Jordan Amor, Benjamin Barber, 

Brandon Cernel, Madison 

Chartier, Esmeralda Guzman, 

Samantha Holifield, Melody 

Ozdyck, Alex Redmon, Andrew 

Steck 

Jack Lubeznik Scholarship - 

Kellie Deutscher, Aaron Fowler, 

Reid Gast, Conner Post 

Jan R. Nona Environmental 

Stewardship Award - Katie 

Zakutansky 

Pioneer Scholarship - Celia 

Hernandez, Katlin Lestinsky, 

Alfreda Nelson 

Redington & Rootes Scholarship - 

Katrina Kemiel, Callie Miller, 

Courtney Miller, Michael Osborn, 

Brady Severs, Leslie Swanson, 

Jennifer Shelton, Maria Wagner, 

Gabrielle Weber 

Ida M. Reffett Debate Scholarship - 

Jake Burns 

Robert A. and Dorothy Rocke 

Scholarships - Sarah Chlebek, 

Shelby Cotter, Hanna Gielczyk, 

Sarah Harrison, Daniel Hill, 

Brittney Morgan, Jennifer 

Shelton, Andrew Taschler 

Floyd O. and Betty L. Shunk 

Scholarship - Andrew Bartels, 

Kelsey Fine, Alec James, Candace 

Jongkind, Bryn Masson, Sara Noe, 

Cassandra Swanson, Kara Ulrich, 

Jessica Wedow, Joseph Yagelski 

Donald F. Scott Motivational Scholarship - 

Wanoka Dean, Eddie Fowler, 

Victoria Kuiken, Jalen Lewis, 

Wynn Wellman 

Irvin E. Swanson Scholarship - 

Kory Buresh, Austin Butcher 

John R. and Florene A. Troyer 

Scholarship - Kayana Pryor 

Unity Foundation County-wide 

Scholarship - Nolan Sampson 

D. I. Walker Scholarship - 

Gabrielle Weber 

Clarence Weinkauff, Jr. Award - 

Zachary Brown 

Terence Metcalf Memorial Scholarship - 

Leslie Thomas 

Arlo and Jayne Westphal Memorial 

Dr. Edwin C. and Alice J. Mueller Scholarship - Olivia Steele 

Scholarship - Elijah Owen 

18 U N I T Y F O U N D A T I O N O F L A P O R T E C O U N T Y | C O M M U N I T Y R E P O R T 2 0 1 1 - 1 2 

Multiple students benefit annually from the 

Gustav J. & Elma A. Banzhaf Memorial 

Scholarship, established to help graduates 

of New Prairie High School. The Banzhafs 

left a great gift upon their death to help 

people they would never meet. 

The Kabelin Family Scholarship supports 

students who understand the value of work 

and who wish to further their education 

beyond high school. Kabelin family 

members presented the honor this year— 

which coincides with the 

100th anniversary of the business. 

Beth LeRoy set up a scholarship to honor 

her husband, Robert, a beloved La Porte 

High School tennis coach from 1966–1989. 

This scholarship helps students who have 

lettered in the LPHS tennis program, even if 

they don’t play in college. 

Isabelle Peterson created the Pioneer 

Scholarship because she is absolutely 

passionate about the value of education and 

wants to make the world a better place. 

It supports individuals like these students, 

who have a “pioneering” attitude.

LILLY SCHOLARS 2012 

BRITTANY BELKIEWITZ AND MITCHELL ORZECH POISED TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE 

As usual, La Porte County’s 2012 Lilly 

Endowment Community Scholars are an 

awesome representation of today’s youth. 

Brittany Belkiewitz and Mitchell Orzech 

will receive full tuition scholarships, including 

required fees, and an annual book stipend 

of $900. 

Brittany ranked first in her class at La Porte High 

School and is the daughter of Jeffery and Marilyn 

Belkiewitz. She shares that since a very young age 

she has “dreamed of traversing the globe.” In 

addition to volunteering with many local charitable 

efforts, Brittany has already started pursuing the 

passion for travel by volunteering at an orphanage in 

Chile and participating in three other mission trips 

with her church youth group. She is studying 

International Relations and Russian at Indiana 

University, with the goal to obtain a diplomatic 

position with the US Embassy in Moscow. With the 

backing of her self-described “3Cs: creativity, compassion 

and commitment,” we’re sure that Brittany will 

succeed in her service-focused career. 

Mitchell also ranked first in his class at Michigan City 

High School. He is the son of Michael and Nicole 

Orzech, and is attending Rose-Hulman Institute of 

Technology to study mathematics and physics. 

Since his early years, Mitchell has loved 

mathematics, inheriting that talent from his father. 

He enjoys the challenges of solving problems, and is 

debating the potential of an engineering career. 

Mitchell has shared his compassionate nature, in 

activities such as tutoring, volunteering at IU 

Health La Porte VNA Services and Coolspring 

Elementary School, and coaching soccer for 

special needs students. 

With his excellent communication skills and 

personable personality, we also foresee success 

for Mitchell in future endeavors. 

U N I T Y F O U N D A T I O N O F L A P O R T E C O U N T Y | C O M M U N I T Y R E P O R T 2 0 1 1 - 1 2 1 9

READING FOR LIFE 

UNITY & NEW PRAIRIE JOIN FORCES TO BOOST LITERACY FOR LIFE 

When a child curls up in a corner with a book, or an adult reads 

to a child, something magical happens. The world outside disappears, 

and he or she embraces the voice of the author, absorbs 

new words and becomes accustomed to the rhythm of the English 

language. 

“...DETERMINING 

THE NUMBER 

OF NEW 

PRISONS TO 

BUILD IS BASED... 

ON THE NUMBER 

OF 2ND 

GRADERS NOT 

READING AT 

2ND GRADE 

LEVEL.” 

– former Sen. Evan Bayh 

However, reading is a skill 

that children have to learn in 

order to master, and many 

students enter school unprepared 

to tackle the challenges 

of literacy. 

Why We Should Care 

Some students are at a particular 

disadvantage. Fortythree 

percent of children 

younger than six live in 

poverty, according to a 

Columbia University study 

cited by the Jumpstart education 

nonprofit. They have 

limited access to age-appropriate 

books, and receive 

an average of 25 hours of one-on-one picture book 

reading at home—compared to their middle-class peers at 

1,000–1,500 hours. 

Children without adequate reading preparation enter school at 

a disadvantage, as standard (basal) readers assume an average 

reading level. An underprepared child may find “catching up” 

frustrating or impossible. 

This has long-term consequences. Former Senator Evan 

Bayh, referenced in the above study report, stated reading 

skills are so connected to future success in school and in 

life that “determining the number of new prisons to build is 

based, in part, on the number of second graders not reading 

at second-grade level.” 

Creating Change from the Ground Up 

Educators are taking a new look at the way children learn 

to read, and a local school system, with the help of literacy 

coaches supported by the Unity Foundation, has adopted a 

leveled reading system wherein children learn at their own 

pace and often catch up to their peers. 

Three years ago, New Prairie United School Corporation 

(NPUSC) began a partnership with Lakeshore Alliance for 

Student Success to train educators as literacy coaches. The 

program had a clear impact on teachers’ methods and students’ 

skills. Lisa Smiertelny has taught 15 years at Rolling Prairie, 

and says: “Starting balanced literacy is like taking how you 

teach, wiping it clean and starting on a crisp, clean slate.” 

The Secret to Success 

Balanced or leveled literacy programs use small group 

work, organized and labeled books, and teacher education 

to create a more open learning environment. Because the 

methods are so different, the literacy coaches are key. 

The program was such a great success that when initial 

funding ran out, NPUSC approached Unity to support an additional 

year. Not only are K-1 teachers trained in the methods, 

but second and third grade educators also received 

training. The Unity grant funding further provides materials 

and resources to support the teachers and students. 

Balanced literacy has made a clear impact on the students. 

As Rolling Prairie Teacher Julie Kirkham estimates, “After 

one year, it appears that more students are reading at or 

above grade level by the end of the year, which is giving 

them a strong base to build upon before reaching tests such 

as IREAD. It gives us an opportunity to focus on the skills 

that struggling readers need to help them grow as well.” 


2011 GRANTS GIVEN FOR GOOD IN LA PORTE COUNTY 

Alzheimer's & Dementia Services of Northern Indiana 

American Association of University Women 

American Legion Post 83 

American Red Cross - La Porte County Chapter 

Bethany Retreat House 

Boy Scouts of America - LaSalle Council 

Boys and Girls Club of Michigan City 

Campus Life/Youth for Christ La Porte 

CASA / Harmony House 

Catholic Charities Diocese of Gary 

Catholic Charities Family Center 

CF Leads 

Citizens Concerned for the Homeless 

Council on Foundations 

Discovery Charter School 

Downs Syndrome Association of Northwest Indiana 

Dunebrook Child Advocacy Center 

Dunes House 

Eta Eta Chapter of Psi Iota Xi 

Festival Players Guild 

First Congregational Church 

Food Bank of Northern Indiana 

Food for the Poor 

Franciscan Community Services - St. Anthony Hospice 

The Garner Foundation 

Greater La Porte Chamber of Commerce 

Greater La Porte Economic Development Corporation on 

behalf of La Porte County Economic Development 

Alliance, Greater La Porte Economic Development Corporation, 

and Michigan City Economic Development Corporation 

The Greatest Investment 

Housing Opportunities 

Imagination Station Early Childhood Learning Center 

Independent Cat Society 

Indiana Grantmakers Alliance 

Indiana Youth Institute 

International Friendship Gardens 

Jack and Shirley Lubeznik Center for the Arts 

Junior Achievement Serving La Porte County 

Kingsbury Town Council 

Boy Scouts LaSalle Council members made tasty treats for 

their feathered friends at the Bird Festival event. Afterschool 

scouting in Michigan City elementary schools is supported 

by a Unity grant. www.lasallecouncilbsa.org. 

Kingsford Heights Wesleyan Church 

La Lumiere School 

La Porte City Police Department 

La Porte Community Concert Association 

La Porte Community School Corporation 

La Porte Community School Corporation - Boston Middle School 

La Porte Community School Corporation - Hailmann Elementary School 

La Porte Community School Corporation - Handley Elementary School 

La Porte County Conservation Trust Fund 

La Porte County Habitat for Humanity 

La Porte County Historical Society 

La Porte County Parks Foundation 

La Porte County Public Library 

La Porte County Symphony Orchestra 

La Porte Family YMCA 

La Porte Family YMCA Community Child Care and Learning Center 

La Porte Hospital Foundation 

La Porte Service League 

Leadership La Porte County 

Lincoln Street Boys & Girls Club 

Literacy Council/Healthy Communities of La Porte County 

Marquette Catholic High School 

Metropolitan School District of New Durham Township 

Michiana Humane Society & SPCA 

Michiana Resources 



Michigan City Area Schools 

Michigan City Area Schools Club Discovery/Middle School After- 

School Program 

Michigan City Area Schools - Dress for Success 

Michigan City Area Schools Hour for Ours/School-Based Mentoring 

Michigan City Area Schools - Michigan City High School 

Michigan City Area Schools Teacher Innovation Fund 

Michigan City Chamber Music Festival Inc. 

Michigan City Housing Authority 

Michigan City Public Library 

Michigan City Soul Steppers 

Michigan City United Jewish Welfare Fund 

Mill Creek Community Lions Club 

Nazareth Home 

New Prairie United School Corporation 

New Prairie United School Corporation New Prairie Middle School 

North Central Community Action Agencies 

Northwest Indiana Quality of Life Council 

Notre Dame Catholic Church & School 

Open Door Adolescent Health Center 

Open Door Health Center 

Parents & Friends, Inc. 

Porter County Community Foundation 

Presbyterian Church Foundation of La Porte 

Purdue Foundation 

Purdue University North Central 

Queen of All Saints Roman Catholic School 

READ La Porte County 

Real Services 

Reins of Life 

Rolling Prairie Business & Community Association 

Rotary Club of Michigan City Foundation 

Salvation Army - La Porte 

Salvation Army - Michigan City 

Samaritan Counseling Center, Inc. 

Save the Dunes Conservation Fund 

Service League of Michigan City 

Shirley Heinze Land Trust 

Sinai Temple 

Social & Learning Institute 

South Central Community Schools 

South Shore Dance Alliance 

Southtown Beach Property Owners Association 

St. John's United Church of Christ 

St. Joseph Catholic School 

St. Mary's College 

Stepping Stone Shelter For Women 

Supplemental United Pantry 

Swanson Activity Center 

United Way of La Porte County 

Unity Foundation of La Porte County 

VNA Foundation of La Porte County 

Wanatah Chamber of Commerce 

Westville Area Chamber of Commerce 

WE BELIEVE THAT 

THE FORMATION OF 

UNITY FOUNDATION OF 

LA PORTE COUNTY MAY BE 

ONE OF THE MOST 

IMPORTANT EVENTS 

IN THE COUNTY’S HISTORY.” 

– John M. Mutz (Past President of Lilly Endowment, Inc.) 

Women's Care Center 

Worthy Women's Recovery Home 

Young People's Theatre Company 

Youth Service Bureau of La Porte County 

2011 GRANTS FOR TEACHERS 

La Porte Community Schools 

Boston Middle School - Bonnie DeWolf 

Kesling Middle School - Charity Shouse 

Michigan City Area Schools 

Barker Middle School - Lesa Cotto, Amy Hamann, Hannah McKee, 

Val Mecklenburg 



Edgewood Elementary School - Jean Ewing 

Elston Middle School - Laura Daly, Shannon Galloway, Adam Goebel, 

Samantha Greenwood, Amy Wojasinski-Labis 

Joy Elementary School - Susan Baldwin, Jan Ferraro, Meg Kanyer, 

Ashley Medley 

Krueger Middle School - Erica Ackerson, Shirley Allen, Brenda Christianson, 

Sharon Schuman, Robin Shipley 

Lake Hills Elementary School - Shannon Chavis, Leanne Lamport, Erin Lozano, 

Janis Mitchell, DeAnna Munoz, Leanne Rogers, DeAnna Roths 

Students at St. Stanislaus Catholic School enjoyed learning about 

the life and style of artist Georges Seurat. They then practiced his 

“pointillism” method of painting with tiny dots of paint, rather 

than brush strokes. 

Marsh Elementary School - Pam Sassaman, Renate Zavesky 

Niemann Elementary School - Boback Eghbali, Holly Stanisci, 

Kimberly Stepp 

Pine Elementary School - LouAnn Porter 

Springfield Elementary School - Lisa Bailey, Ann Frump, Nancy Gonzalez, 

Kristin Smith, Janelle Spolyar, Sheri Tuesburg 

“IT IS OUR CHALLENGE 

TO CREATE A CULTURE 

OF PHILANTHROPY.” 

– Philip A. Sprague (Founding Board member) 

Unity Foundation recognizes that literacy is a key component to a 

healthy community, and many grants have been made through 

the years to support reading and tutoring projects. These Boston 

Middle School students earned a trip to a large book store and 

had the difficult task of choosing just one book to take home. 

Michigan City Parochial Schools 

Notre Dame Catholic School - Linda Barr, Kathleen Beeler, Kathlene Bobillo, 

Barbara Brandon, Kathy Dolezal, Luci Mazac, Ellie Parkerson, Ben Potts, 

Christine Roder 

Queen of All Saints Catholic School - Elda Smith 

St. Paul Lutheran School - Debbie Boone, Becky Lane, 

Jamiee Przybylinski, Kim Zdyb 

St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic School - Denise Delaney, Kristi Har 

Members of Boys & Girls Club of Michigan City enjoy projects 

that help them learn about healthy lifestyles, such as growing 

their own vegetables. The club is supported by a Unity grant. 

Check out their good work at www.boysandgirlsclubmc.com 


FUNDS: FRIENDS HELPING FRIENDS 

Unity Foundation has a fund to meet every need. It only 

takes a little to get one of your own started. Call us to find 

out more! The following is a list of the existing funds held 

by Unity. 

These funds are established to benefit the specific community to 

which they are directed. They are flexible funds, responsive to 

ever-changing needs. A knowledgeable group of local people 

monitor community needs and resources and have the 

challenging task of deciding how to best use the funds. 

COMMUNITY FUNDS 

Unity Foundation Community Fund 

Ruth W. Pollingue Community Fund 

John P. & Anne H. Daley Community Fund 

Ernest and Mildred Delco Community Fund 

John A. & Dorothy Sieb Carstens Fund 

Charles T. & Pauline J. Dye Endowment Fund 

Hanna, Indiana Community Fund 

Westville, Indiana Community Fund 

Philip A. Sprague Community Fund 

DONOR ADVISED FUNDS 

Bensz Family Advised Fund 

Brennan Family Fund 

Milton L. and Sylvia R. Bankoff Memorial Foundation 

Muriel R. and Myron E. Berkson, M.D., Fund 

Fred and Helen Brust Family Fund 

Pauline M. Dent Memorial Fund 

Dent and Sterger Families Foundation Fund 

Micky Gallas Family Fund 

Hay Family Advised Fund 

Jack L. Jones Advised Fund 

Kabelin Family Fund 

Lindsey O’Brien Kesling Foundation 

Kora Family Fund 

Lake Family Fund for La Porte County 

Lake Fund 

Lighthouse Place Charitable Fund 

Shirley Lubeznik Advised Fund 

Bruce and Julia Manner Social Capital Fund 

McDermott Family Fund 

Leigh and Marcia Morris Fund 

William E. Nickels Memorial Fund 

Jerome C. and Kathy A. Orcutt Fund 

David M. Parry Foundation 

Pontius Family Foundation 

La Porte Service League has presented an annual play as cultural 

enrichment for county schoolchildren for 79 years. The 2012 

play featured League members as actresses in the locally written 

work, “Why Do I Have to Do My Homework?” Unity helped 

sponsor the event through a community grant. Visit the La Porte 

Service League page on Facebook. 

Random Acts of Kindness Fund 

Ransom Family Fund 

Tom and Judy Ringo Advised Fund 

Burton B. Ruby Foundation Fund 

Salmon Family Fund 

Paul and Terri Sammann Fund 

Donald F. Scott Fund 

Seegers Family Fund 

Scott E. and Kimberly A. Siefker Fund 

Ticsay Family Charitable Foundation 

John & Jean Vail Advised Fund 

Robert W. and Sharon L. Wright Community Fund 

Anonymous Funds 

FIELD OF INTEREST FUNDS & AGENCY FUNDS: 

These funds benefit a specific charitable organization or 

cause. 

Animal Care And Animal Education 

Independent Cat Society: Promotes the welfare of all 

animals, especially cats, and an aggressive spay / neuter 

program in the Northwest Indiana region. 

La Porte County Small Animal Shelter: Supports the La 

Porte County Small Animal Shelter to provide a safe and 

caring environment for stray animals in need. 

Michiana Humane Society: Supports homeless and/or 

abused domestic animals while educating the community 

about kindness for all. 

Polad Animal Care Fund: Helps animals that have 

become homeless as a result of their owner’s death, 

disappearance, or inability to care for them. 



Washington Park Zoo Fund: Supports the MC Zoological 

Society, especially animal care and habitat improvement. 

Clarence Weinkauff Jr. Grant Fund: Promotes the 4–H 

swine program and the breeding of swine in La Porte County. 

Arts and Culture 

Arts United Fund of LaPorte County: Promotes fine and 

performing arts in La Porte County. 

Bankoff Family Fund for the Sinai Sunday Evening 

Forum: Brings the “world” closer to home through this 

long-standing speaker series. 

Barry Dulyea Arts for Children Fund: Enriches the lives 

of youth through the fine arts. 

Beverly Shores History Museum and Art Gallery Fund: 

Preserves the history of Beverly Shores and supports the 

historic “Depot” art gallery. 

Dale E. Landsman Arts Foundation: Supports fine arts, 

including education and appreciation; commercial arts of 

advertising and graphic design. 

Dunes Arts Foundation Endowment: Supports fine and 

performing arts for children and adults in La Porte County. 

Eugene & Marilyn Glick Arts Fund: Promotes fine and 

performing arts in La Porte. 

Festival Players Guild Endowment Fund: Supports yearround 

professional and semi-professional theater 

productions and related activities. 

The La Porte County Family YMCA 

Child Care Center was pleased to 

achieve a Unity grant to purchase 

gliders to rock the infants and 

children. The center is a fully 

licensed, curriculum-based facility, 

which has achieved Level 4 Paths 

to Quality certification and 

accreditation from National Early 

Childhood Program Accreditation. 

www.lpymca.org/programs/childcare-a-learning-center. 

Indiana Humanities Council Fund: Supports humanities 

programs in La Porte County. 

Jack and Shirley Lubeznik Center for the Arts: Helps 

fund special projects and to introduce local students to 

museum situations and art appreciation. 

La Porte County Symphony Fund: Brings quality 

orchestral programs to La Porte County. 

The La Porte County Symphony Orchestra wows its audiences 

with many exciting concerts and events each year, including the 

popular Children’s Concert. Help the symphony continue to bring 

quality orchestral programs to the community in its 40th season 

by donating to the La Porte County Symphony Fund at Unity. 

Check out the concert schedule at www.lcso.net. 

Ted and Ruth Rohrabaugh Fund for the Michigan City 

Lakefront Amphitheater: Buys music for the Michigan 

City Municipal Band. 

Community Development & Philanthropy 

Economic Development Investment Fund: Supports 

county-wide economic development. 

Jim Jessup Future Leaders Fund: Supports community 

leadership development opportunities. 

Kankakee Valley Workforce Development Fund: 

Provides education and training for skill development and 

enhancement of residents. 

Kiwanis Club of LaPorte Charitable Fund: Supports the 

charitable activities of the Kiwanis Club of La Porte, 

Indiana. 

Michigan City Lion Charities, Inc. Endowment Fund: 

Provides support to assist charitable organizations in 

Michigan City. 

Rotary Club Foundation of Michigan City: Supports 

scholarships and charitable activities of the Michigan City 

Club. 

George H. and Madeline A. Smrt West Side 

Neighborhood Fund: Benefits the West Side Neighborhood 

of Michigan City. 

Unity Operating Endowment Fund: Helps Unity to help 

others…forever. 

United Way of Greater La Porte County Endowment: 

Helps fund United Way operations. 

Unity Foundation Operating Fund: Supports day-to-day 

operations needed to serve La Porte County. 



Education 

Barbara A. Carmen Memorial Fund: Endows teachers 

with grants for special enrichment programs in public and 

parochial schools in Michigan City. 

La Lumiere School Endowment Fund: Supports La 

Lumiere School, a coeducational and rigorous collegepreparatory 

school. 

Janet Collings Drayton Teacher Innovation Fund: 

Supports innovative classroom projects that bring learning 

to life for students attending Kingsbury Elementary School. 

Haiti Children’s Education Fund: To create a better 

world by providing high school education to the most 

needy and most promising orphans in Haiti. 

Ivy Tech Community College Pejic Campus - Michigan 

City Fund: Supports Ivy Tech’s Pejic Campus in 

delivering professional, technical, and lifelong education. 

Language Arts Fund for Queen of All Saints: Supports 

“Hoosier Books” program and other language arts 

programs. 

La Porte County Educational Advancement Fund: 

Support efforts to increase people’s success in school, work 

and life. 

La Porte High School Class of 1952 Endowment Fund: 

To help keep LPHS a great place to grow and learn. 

Leadership LaPorte County Fund: Assists Leadership La 

Porte County in its mission to help make La Porte County 

more “leader-full.” 

League of Women Voters Education Fund: Supports 

educational activities of the La Porte County League. 

Michigan City Area Chamber of Commerce Education 

Foundation: Enhances the quality of public education 

through programs not normally funded through tax dollars. 

Michigan City Area Schools Endowment Fund: Supports 

the schools as “the unifying force of our diverse 

community.” 

Michigan City Education Foundation: Currently funds 

small grants for teachers to develop and implement creative 

programs in the classroom in grades K–8. 

J. Robert and Marjorie Miller Teacher Advancement 

Fund: Promote teacher excellence within the La Porte 

Community Schools. 

Teacher Innovation Fund for MCAS:Provides small 

grants to support educators who develop or replicate 

innovative approaches and methods to make learning more 

effective and exciting. 

Westville Schools (MSD of New Durham Twp) 

Endowment: Enhances the Westville schools, grades K - 

12 ,now and forever. 

Miya Jackson wrote an essay nominating her father, Ray 

Jackson, for Stepping Stone Shelter’s 2012 Father of The Year 

Contest. A community grant supported this annual contest, and 

the Jacksons were happy to be recognized at Stepping Stone’s 

annual Awards Ceremony. www.steppingstoneshelter.org 

Bill and Kitty Wolf Art Teacher Advancement Fund: 

Promote art teacher excellence in the La Porte Community 

Schools. 

Emergency Housing and Services 

La Porte County Chapter—American Red Cross 

Endowment Fund: Provides relief to the victims of 

disaster and helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond 

to emergencies. 

Sand Castle Shelter for Children and Families: Provides 

temporary lodging for families with the goal of securing 

permanent housing. 

The Salvation Army of Michigan City: Help the 

Salvation Army to meet people’s most basic human needs. 

The Salvation Army of Michigan City Major Building 

Repairs Fund: Maintains buildings so that it can continue 

to provide “soup, soap and salvation” to those in need. 

Stepping Stone Shelter Endowment Fund: Provides 

emergency shelter for women and their children who are 

victims of domestic violence. 



Environment, Parks, & Recreation 

Barker Woods Stewardship Fund: Provides 

environmental stewardship for the Barker Woods Nature 

Preserve and other properties. 

Environmental Improvement Fund for La Porte 

County: Supports projects and programs that improve the 

quality of land, air and/or waters of La Porte County. 

Fort LaPlay Porte Endowment: Provides long-term 

maintenance of Fort La Play Porte, at Kesling Park. 

Indiana Dunes Environmental Learning Center Tuition 

Assistance Fund: Helps La Porte County students attend 

the many outstanding and experiential environmental 

learning programs. 

International Friendship Gardens Fund: Supports the 

gardens, programs and ground facilities. 

June B. Kelley Garden Fund for Long Beach: Preserves, 

maintains and develops public gardens in Long Beach, 

Indiana. 

La Porte City Park Foundation Fund: Supports 

maintenance and improvement of La Porte City parks. 

LaPorte County Conservation Trust Fund: Provides 

funds to purchase vital natural areas and protect 

biodiversity in LaPorte County. 

La Porte County Park Foundation Fund: Supports land 

acquisition, park improvements, and matching funds for 

park grants. 

La Prairie Environment and Art Fund: Provides cultural 

experiences integrating art, agriculture, and the 

environment. 

Long Beach Tree Fund: Preserves and enhances tree 

population in Long Beach. 

Mill Pond Park Fund: Supports the Mill Pond Park in 

Union Mills. 

Jan Nona Environmental Stewardship Award Fund: 

Rewards students or teachers in the Michigan City area, to 

move beyond being an ordinary citizen and become 

involved in environmental issues in the community. 

Pine Lake Project Endowment Fund: Supports the 

preservation of the view of Pine Lake, “keeping her a 

community treasure” for generations to come. 

Rotary Special Projects Fund: Supports the Michigan 

City Rotary Club’s special projects. 

Save the Dunes Conservation Fund Endowment: 

Supports environmental programs and operations. 

Shirley Heinze Land Trust Endowment for La Porte 

County: Supports acquisition of natural areas for 

preservation in La Porte County; restores and maintains 

biological integrity of the natural landscape. 

Urban Forestry Fund: Helps to preserve, enhance the 

urban tree population in and around Michigan City. 

Family Support 

Children’s Fund (Child Abuse Prevention): Supports 

Dunebrook as it maintains the child advocacy center, 

increases community awareness of child abuse/neglect and 

coordinates services for victims and families. 

Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Fund: 

Supports efforts to advocate safe, permanent homes for 

abused and neglected children. 

La Porte Family YMCA Child Care Center Fund: 

Supports the expanded childcare center on Monroe Street in 

La Porte. 

Women’s Care Center of Greater La Porte County 

Endowment Fund: To support the local Women’s Care 

Centers and their outreach to pregnant women and their babies. 

The Washington Park Bandstand is a graceful structure, supported 

by The Marquette Quester’s Historic Preservation fund for 

generations to cherish. 

Womens Well-Being Fund: Improve the well-being of 

women and girls. 

Health Care Related 

Duneland Health Council, Inc.: Dedicated to improving 

health and general welfare of the greater Michigan City 

community. 

La Porte Hospital Foundation Fund: Provides funding 

for foundation operations. 

Open Door Health Center Endowment Fund: Provides 

income for the emergency medicine account. 

Dr. R. Thomas Rocke SMILE Foundation: Provides 

financial assistance for orthodontic treatment of 

disadvantaged children in LaPorte County. 



Franciscan St. Anthony Health, Michigan City Fund: 

Supports a variety of projects that promote St. Anthony’s 

mission. 

VNA of La Porte County Endowment: Provides health 

and social services to those who do not qualify for 

institutional care or prefer to stay in their own environment. 

Historic Preservation 

Rumely/Allis Chalmers La Porte Heritage Center Fund: 

Provides support to preserve the history of the Rumely and 

Allis-Chalmers companies’ important, innovative and 

iconic machinery. 

Washington Park Bandstand Fund: Supports work with 

the Marquette Questers to maintain the historic bandstand. 

Michigan City Lighthouse Catwalk Maintenance: 

Assists in restoration and maintenance. 

Housing and Food 

Affordable Housing Fund for the Greater Michigan 

City Area: Supports affordable housing for low-to 

moderate-income households. 

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Gary: Provides a 

Christian response to help meet a variety of human needs in 

LaPorte County. 

Food Bank of Northern Indiana Fund: Helps feed 

hungry families in LaPorte County. 

The Garner Foundation:Provides funding for holiday 

(Thanksgiving and Christmas) dinners for people in the 

Michigan City area who would otherwise go hungry or be 

alone. 

Homeward Bound Walk Fund: Supports housing 

agencies participating in the Annual Homeward Bound 

Walk for Homelessness. 

Housing Opportunities Endowment Fund: Supports 

development and provision of safe, decent, and affordable 

housing and customized support services. 

La Porte County Habitat for Humanity, Inc. 

Endowment Fund: Improves living conditions for 

Michigan City area people in need. 

La Porte County Meals on Wheels Endowment: 

Delivers nutritious meals to the homebound in the greater 

Michigan City area. 

Lorraine Gehrke Orlowski Fund for Housing & 

Homelessness: Assists in preventing homelessness and 

helping people who find themselves without a safe and 

habitable place to live. 

Pat Boy participated as a City Council representative during 

Mayors for Meals by delivering to her Michigan City district, along 

with Bob Uremovich and his dog, Kiki. He delivers two routes 

every week—equaling 98 times per year. Ed Cisler is the happy 

recipient. Meals on Wheels provided 61,296 in 2011. 

www.laportecountymealsonwheels.org 

Literacy & Library Services 

Kay Franklin Commemorative Fund: Furthers literacy 

and literature, particularly for the benefit of those at risk of 

illiteracy due to economic and/or cultural disadvantage. 

LaCrosse Public Library Endowment Fund: To support 

library expansion, programs and services. 

La Porte County Public Library Endowment Fund: 

Provides information, education, recreation resources, and 

emerging technologies to benefit the community. 

Marquette Catholic High School Library: Provides 

funds to purchase books, audio-visual and computer 

equipment, and other learning materials. 

Michigan City Public Library Unity Fund: Supports 

collections and programs. 

Read La Porte County Literacy Fund: To increase 

reading, math and English skills in the community through 

tutoring. 

Reading is Fundamental Fund of AAUW: Supports 

Reading is Fundamental program and other charitable 

activities of M.C. AAUW. 

Unity Foundation Literacy Fund: To remove barriers to 

education and improve literacy. 

Mental Well Being 

Mental Health Fund of La Porte County: Promotes 

quality mental health resources for consumers of mental 

health services, families, and the community. 

Samaritan Counseling Centers Fund: Supports the 

community-based, interfaith counseling and educational 

service. 



Worthy Women Recovery Home, Inc. Endowment 

Fund: Supports WWRH, Inc. to provide recently 

incarcerated women with programs and tools necessary to 

empower them to live as positive role models. 

Positive Youth Development 

4H of La Porte County: Supports the 4–H Program to 

help youth develop important life skills. 

Boys & Girls Club of Michigan City: Provides inspiration 

and enables youth between 6 and 18 years of age to become 

responsible, productive, caring citizens. 

Boy Scouts (LaSalle Council #165): Helps children in the 

development of character, value, and citizenship training 

through fun programs in the out of doors. 

Charles Westcott Youth Fund: Supports education and 

recreational activities for youth in the greater Michigan 

City area. 

Foundations for Youth (Youth Service Bureau, Big 

Brothers/Big Sisters): Supports a wide variety of 

programs to benefit area youth. 

Hands off Heroin Fund, MSD New Durham Twp 

Schools: Encourages students to make positive choices in 

their lives. 

Junior Achievement of Michigan City: Provides Junior 

Achievement and economics programs in all Michigan City 

area schools, sending positive messages about business and 

government. 

La Porte County Fair Unity Fund: Supports the fair, and 

4-H programs and awards. 

La Porte Family YMCA Fund: Assists the La Porte 

Family YMCA to support children and families throughout 

their service area. 

MCAS Education Enrichment & Dress For Success 

Fund: Supports school uniforms, afterschool care, 

mentoring, and other non-tax supported programs. 

New Prairie Athletic Capital Fund: Supports capital 

projects for athletic programs within the New Prairie, IN, 

School Corp. District. 

Philip A. Sprague Care & Share Fund: Helps La Porte 

County youth discover the joy of philanthropy. 

Tuholski & Oberlie Environment and Arts Fund for 

Youth: Brings the environment and the arts closer to young 

people in the Michigan City area. 

Youth 2 Youth Endowment Fund: Promotes a hands-on 

program that teaches youth to be responsible grant makers 

and grant seekers. 

Religious 

Bethel Presbyterian Church of Union Mills Fund 

Evelyn and Robert Johnson Fund for the First Christian 

Church of La Porte 

First Congregational Church of M.C. Fund 

Presbyterian Church Foundation of La Porte 

Sinai Temple of Michigan City Endowment 

St. John’s United Church of Christ, Michigan City 

Trinity ChurchWanatah 

Sacred Heart Catholic Church 

Senior Citizen Well Being and Other-Abled 

Legacy Fund for the Swanson Activity Center for Older 

Adults: Sustains the Center as it serves senior citizens in 

the greater La Porte area. 

At the Sunflower Fair, READ La Porte County, Inc. Executive 

Director Mary Hedge (left) and board member / ESL student 

Christa Pinkepank helped spread the good news about READ’s 

25th anniversary of offering tutoring programs. Unity helped 

the organization offer specialized dyslexia training 

through a community grant 

Library Services for the Disabled Fund: Helps the 

Michigan City Public Library better serve the disabled. 

Michiana Resources, Inc. Endowment: Provides 

vocational, developmental, and advocacy services for 

people with disabilities and/or other vocational 

disadvantages to enhance their individual potential. 

Parents & Friends, Inc. Endowment: Strengthens growth 

of individuals, especially persons with disabilities, in 

making choices, becoming self reliant and living a fully 

independent life within their community. 

Social & Learning Institute for the Disadvantaged 

Endowment: Offers a unique educational experience for 

mentally, physically, and/or emotionally disadvantaged 

young adults who are unable to attend public school or 

participate in another program. 



Senior Independence Fund: Assists Parents and Friends, 

Inc. in meeting the needs of the elderly by offering 

transportation, nutrition, guardianship, financial counseling 

and other services. 

Awards and Scholarships 

Agricultural Scholarship 

Diane Kay Bamberth Memorial Award 

Gustav J. and Elma A. Banzhaf Scholarship Fund 

Bensz Family Scholarship Fund 

Barbara Brandon Piano/Organ Achievement Award 

Dr. Windham Bremer Scholarship 

Lloyd G. and Betty Jane Clayton Scholarship 

William Vernon Compton Scholarship 

Earl and Faye Cunningham Scholarship 

Anne H. Daley Youth Service Bureau Scholarship 

R.E. Daly III La Lumiere Scholarship 

Ernest and Mildred Delco Scholarship 

Carley Dickard Memorial Scholarship Fund 

Dr. and Mrs. Carl N. Fischer Scholarship Fund 

Gail’s Gift Scholarship 

J. & J. Guerrucci Family Foundation 

Harold and Rowena Hargrave Scholarship 

Robert J. Hiler Memorial Scholarship 

Ruth Howe Memorial Nursing Scholarship 

The Ingersoll Trust 

Dr. King S. Jones Memorial Scholarship Fund 

Arthur & Alice Kabelin Scholarship 

Kabelin Family Scholarship 

KAT Volunteer Scholarship 

Harry Kelling Scholarship Fund 

Sandra Calkins Kowalski Community Nursing Fund 

La Porte Amateur Musical Scholarship 

La Porte County Nursing Scholarship Fund 

Robert E. LeRoy Tennis Scholarship 

Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship 

William P. & Mary Lou Linnen Fund for 

St. Mary’s College 

Linnen Memorial Fund for La Lumiere 

Marilouise Lossing Education Fund 

Jack Lubeznik Scholarship Fund 

Terence Metcalf Memorial Scholarship 

M.C. Summer Festival Scholarship Fund 

Dr. Edwin C. and Alice J. Mueller Scholarship 

Loyal Perlich Outstanding Speaker Award 

Redington & Rootes Scholarship 

Pioneer Scholarship Fund 

Ida M. Reffett Debate Scholarship 

Students enjoy community activities through the Youth Service 

Bureau program, including providing friendly interaction at the 

La Porte County Small Animal Shelter. Unity grants support 

YSB’s “School Buddies” and “Kids on the Block” programs. 

For more details, check out www.youthservicebureau.com. 

Robert A. & Dorothy W. Rocke Scholarship 

Frank and Dorothy Schellin Scholarship 

Donald F. Scott Scholarship 

Floyd O. & Betty L. Shunk Scholarship 

Edward B. Siperek & Grace A. Steele Siperek Scholarship 

Irvin E. Swanson Fund 

John R. and Florene A. Troyer Scholarship 

Unity Foundation County- 

Wide Scholarship 

D.I. Walker Scholarship 

Arlo & Jayne Westphal 

Memorial Scholarship 

Unity Foundation is a champion of innovation. Maggi Spartz 

stands next to a banner honoring Rolling Prairie principal, 

Angie Hambling for her induction into the Society of Innovators 

of Northwest Indiana Ivy Tech. Hambling and her 

team's innovation was the creation of the Activity Center 

and its location near the families it serves. 


DONORS: FRIENDS HELPING FRIENDS 

All of the good works that you’ve read about would never be possible without the following people who 

have given of their dollars, their time and their talents. 

For t h e pr o tec tion of our d o no r s, t h eir n a m es have be en eliminate d f r o m th is ver sion. 

Thanks to a $25,000 grant from the NW Indiana Construction 

Advancement Foundation, a section of concrete is restored to ‘like 

new’ condition for the Pine Lake Project. Craftsmen from Local 81 

Laborers Union working for Larson-Danielson Construction get 

the job done. 



Students in the Safe Harbor Club Discovery program through 

Michigan City Area Schools benefit from homework help, as well 

as a variety of enrichment opportunities and friendly fellowship. A 

Unity grant supported this programming in three middle schools. 



Fred Conner was recognized by Harmony House / CASA of 

La Porte as "Child Advocate of the Year" for 2012. Unity 

helped support honoring these essential volunteers at the 

annual appreciation dinner. Discover how to join the CASA 

program and work as a youth court advocate at 

www.lpcasa.com. 



Mentor Don Wenig and LaShayla Johnson enjoy spending time 

together through the Hours for Ours program in Michigan City 

schools. Unity Foundation is pleased to provide grants for this 

important program which builds bonds of support between 

youth and caring adults nurturing their potential. Last year 142 

matches were made. http://mcas.schoolwires.net//Domain/61 



The Independent Cat Society is a no-kill shelter whose 

mission is to promote the welfare of all animals by 

working to reduce pet overpopulation, educate the public, 

prevent cruelties to animals, promote responsible pet 

ownership, and promote more humane. You can support 

them through their fund with Unity Foundation. 



Jim Jessup, Facilitator at Leadership La Porte County, speaks to 

members of the high school leadership program at their opening 

retreat held at Purdue North Central. Unity helps support adult 

and youth leadership efforts in La Porte County. Find out about 

these programs at www.leadershiplaportecounty.com 


FRIENDS: HELPING FRIENDS TO BETTER OUR COMMUNITY 

“WE ARE 

DELIGHTED WE 

CAN PROVIDE 

BADLY NEEDED 

FUNDS FOR 

WORTHY 

CAUSES. THIS IS 

JUST THE 

BEGINNING. 

EVERYONE WHO 

HELPED BUILD 

THE 

COMMUNITY 

FUND HAS MADE 

THIS POSSIBLE.” 

– Michael Brennan 

Co-Chair, Founding board member 

Melinda Nagle of Edward Jones procured her second Gold Key for assisting a client 

who desired to create a fund with Unity Foundation. Professional advisors who would 

like to learn more about how their clients can benefit La Porte County forever may 

call 219-879-0327. 


FRIENDS: HELPING FRIENDS TO BETTER OUR COMMUNITY 

“I HAVE 

SEEN THE 

'MIRACLE OF 

ENDOWMENT' 

WORK. 

IT'S LIKE 

THE GOOSE 

THAT KEEPS 

LAYING 

GOLDEN EGGS.” 

– Sylvia Bankoff, former 

Unity Investment 

Committee member 

Through convening the Home Team with Duneland 

Health Council, Unity Foundation is a strong 

supporter of local homeless prevention initiatives, 

including the annual Homeward Bound Walk. 

Proceeds supported six organizations that provide 

services to families and individuals in need. 

WE KNOW OUR NAMES ARE SIMILAR, BUT HERE’S THE DIFFERENCE… 

Community Foundations, like Unity, strive to 

build permanent funds to benefit the 

community forever—often through people 

giving assets or through estates. Funds are 

invested to provide an annual stream of 

income to charities. 

United Ways raise funds every year by 

people giving via payroll deduction 

and outright gifts. Most of the money 

raised is spent every year for charities 

through an extensive review process. 

“HOW MANY OF US 

COULD REMEMBER THE 

NAME OF OUR GREAT- 

GREAT-GRANDFATHERS? 

I HAVE A WAY TO ASSURE 

YOUR GREAT- 

GREATGRANDCHILDREN 

WILL REMEMBER... 

UNITY FOUNDATION!” 

– Daniel E. Lewis, Jr., Esq. 

Founding Board member 


V. Michael Drayton, Drayton, Biege, Sirugo, & Elliott, LLP 

GOLD KEY SOCIETY 

LEAVE A LEGACY FOREVER 

The Gold Key Society is a special group of professional advisors 

who help foster gifts to Unity Foundation. Without their help, 

some clients may not have been able to help their community. 

David Albers, AFS Company 

William Anderson, CPA 

Paul Applegate, Applegate & Co. CPAs 

Michael P. Burns, Burns Law Firm 

Robin Clark, La Porte Savings Bank 

Robert Cutler, Jr., Cutler Funeral Home 

Leon Dargis, Harbour Trust 

V. Michael Drayton, Drayton, Biege, Sirugo & Elloitt, LLP 

William A. Elliott, Drayton, Biege, Sirugo & Elloitt, LLP 

Greta Friedman, Attorney 

Shaw Friedman, Attorney 

Tim Gartland, Edward Jones 

Alicia Gloyeske, Attorney 

Steve Gronceski, CFP, Strategic Financial Group, LLC 

Lynn E. Haverstock, Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel 

William E. Hedge, Attorney 

Cynthia Hedge, Attorney 

Ralph Howes, Howes and Howes 

Michael A. Jankowske, CFP, Strategic Financial Group, LLC 

Jim Kaminski, Newby, Lewis, Kaminski & Jones 

John A. Kaylor, Schmitt & Kaylor, CPAs 

Dale Knouse, Cutler Funeral Home 

Deborah J. Koller, Edward Jones 

Daniel E. Lewis, Jr., Newby, Lewis, Kaminski & Jones 

David McCain, Drayton, Biege, Sirugo & Elloitt, LLP 

Barry F. McDonnell, Attorney 

Duane Mertl, Horizon Trust & Investment Management 

Ann Metcalf, Angelos & Rardin 

Melinda S. Nagle, CFP, Edward Jones 

Stephanie Oberlie, Harbour Trust 

Justin M. Padgett, CFP, Valeo Financial Advisors, LLC 

David F. Pendergast, Edward Jones 

Lawrence Rardin, Angelos & Rardin 

Cheryl Reinhart, Edward Jones 

Patrick W. Reynolds, Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel 

Michael V. Riley, Attorney 

Bob Rose, Harbour Trust 

Richard J. Schmitt, Schmitt & Kaylor, CPAs 

James M. Shearin, Schmitt & Kaylor, CPAs 

Fred R. Slosson, CPA, CFP 

Jeffery Smith, PNC Bank 

Marti Swanson, Swanson & Swanson Insurance 

William Trowbridge, Attorney 

Suzy Vance, Workforce Intervention, LLC 

Karen Vogelsang, Vogelsang Asset Management 

Edward L. Volk; Newby, Lewis, Kaminski & Jones 

Edward J. Wainscott, CPA 

Brad Werner, Brad Werner & Co. 

O. Jerrold Winski, Attorney 

Ralph Peterson was buried 

beside his favorite 

fishing hole in 1997. 

This Saturday at 2 p.m., 

he’ll release a hundred 

bluegills into its waters. 

Ralph was happiest sitting next to a pond with his 

grandkids, waiting for the bluegills to bite. 

To keep the pond stocked for his great 

grandchildren, he included a bequest to a local 

conservation organization in his will. 

Thanks to Ralph, the fish are still biting. 

Include your favorite cause in your will or estate 

plan. Contact a charitable organization, attorney, 

financial advisor or local LEAVE A LEGACY® 

program to learn how.

LIVES

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