Indiana Businesses Boost Community with Grants and Leadership Changes

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has recognized **Northlake Auto Recyclers Inc.** in Hammond with its ninth **Indiana Clean Yard-Gold Level** award. This honor highlights the company’s commitment to environmental protection. During a recent ceremony, IDEM Senior Environmental Engineer **Hani Sharaya** presented a commemorative certificate to owner **Marty Hollingshead**. Notably, Northlake Auto Recyclers achieved a perfect score during its Indiana Clean Yard inspection.

Salvage facilities, such as Northlake, play a crucial role in managing wrecked vehicles, which can contain hazardous materials like antifreeze and batteries. Proper management is essential to mitigate potential environmental threats posed by stockpiling these vehicles. For more information about IDEM’s Clean Yard program, visit their official website.

Valparaiso YMCA Secures Grant for Equal Access Project

The **Valparaiso Family YMCA** has received a Community Fund grant from the **Porter County Community Foundation** to support its **Equal Access Aquatics** project. The specific amount of the grant has not been disclosed, but it will fund a new **ADA-compliant mobile pool lift chair** for the YMCA’s Aquatics Center.

This initiative is expected to enhance accessibility for over **16,000 members** served annually, particularly for the more than **300 individuals** who require aquatic physical therapy. The upgrade aims to replace an outdated lift, improving safety and enabling all members, regardless of physical ability, to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of aquatic programs.

Gathering to celebrate this achievement were representatives from both organizations, including **Joel Birky**, program director at Valparaiso Family YMCA, and **Sharon Johnson**, president and CEO of the YMCA.

Leadership Changes and Community Engagement Initiatives

**Lake County Commissioner Mike Repay** has been elected as First Vice President of the **Association of Indiana Counties (AIC) Board of Directors**. His term began on **November 1, 2023**, following elections held during the AIC’s Annual Conference in September. This marks Repay’s fourth term as commissioner, and he previously held a two-year position on the Lake County Council. The AIC Board focuses on setting policies and legislative goals for counties across Indiana.

In a bid to foster connections among local businesses, **Rotary Means Business Northwest Indiana** is organizing a networking event on **December 11** from **16:30 to 18:30** at **All-Star Services** in Valparaiso. The event aims to unite clubs from **Merrillville**, **Schererville**, **Hammond**, and **Valparaiso**, providing a platform for business owners and community leaders to network and promote the mission of Rotary Clubs in the region.

In educational news, the **Legacy Foundation** has announced the finalists for the **Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship**, which offers full tuition coverage at eligible Indiana colleges. Notable finalists include students from various local schools, such as **Annabel Diaz** from Hammond Central and **Diego Torres** from Whiting. The application process for the Legacy’s Universal Scholarship is currently open until **January 15, 2024**.

Lastly, **Northwest Health – Porter** plans to invest over **$11 million** in a multi-year project aimed at expanding access to behavioral healthcare. The new programs, set to launch at **Northwest Health – Portage** by **2028**, will include **20 inpatient beds** and an intensive outpatient program, addressing critical community health needs.

These developments reflect a commitment to enhancing community services and environmental responsibility across Indiana, showcasing the collaborative efforts of local organizations and government officials.