Legacy Foundation’s 2025 Annual Celebration was an evening full of inspiration, recognition, and community pride. Guests gathered to celebrate a year of incredible growth and impact in Lake County, honor outstanding community leaders with the Heart of Lake County Awards, and reflect on the milestones made possible by the generosity of donors, volunteers, and partners.
Together, we achieved milestones worth celebrating:
- Raised $9.3 million in our largest campaign ever, with your donations and the Lilly Endowment Inc. GIFT VIII match.
- Partnered with organizations to support transformative projects like the Tolleston Opportunity Campus, expanded food pantries, youth arts access, and preservation of Marquette Park.
- Secured a $20 million Lilly Endowment grant for NWI Thrive, expanding trails and connecting communities across the region.
- Announced a $1.1 million grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and Press Forward to strengthen local journalism and civic engagement.
- Celebrated Cedar Lake as Indiana’s first Heart & Soul community, engaging residents to shape their town’s future.
- Awarded $6.6 million in grants and scholarships, supported by 792 donors.
- Grew managed assets to $130 million — a 55% increase in just 18 months.
Congratulations to Our Heart of Lake County Award Winners
Dr. Michael McGee
Community Spirit
Beth Casbon
Excellence in Nonprofit Board Leadership
Centier Bank
Corporate Philanthropy Award
Dana Rifai
Gold Key
Because of your generosity, these aren’t just numbers — they’re stories of lives transformed.
Thank you for believing in Lake County’s potential and being part of this journey with us.