Make a “Heart of Lake County” Nomination

Community Spirit Award

Nominate an individual who has made outstanding community contributions that have enhanced, improved, or positively affected the overall quality of life in Lake County, Indiana.

Corporate Philanthropy Award

Nominate a Lake County, Indiana-based for-profit business that has made extraordinary contributions to making Lake County a better place to live, work, and play.

Excellence in Nonprofit Board Leadership Award

Nominate a board member of a Lake County serving nonprofit organization who has demonstrated excellence in governance, leadership, financial sustainability, and program impact.

Celebrating Lake County’s Outstanding Community Leaders

Legacy Foundation’s Annual Heart of Lake County Awards!

Legacy Foundation held its 33nd Annual Celebration at the Dean and Barbara White Community Center. Over 250 Northwest Indiana residents, nonprofits, and community leaders gathered to celebrate 33 years as the Heart of Lake County. Legacy Foundation thanks everyone who was in attendance, along with Foundation partners and supporters who were unable to attend. We look forward to future collaborations!

Click Here to Learn More & View Photos From the Celebration!

During the 2025 Annual Celebration, Legacy Foundation acknowledged the Heart of Lake County Award recipients, community leaders who use their time and talents to positively impact Lake County.

 

2025 Heart of Lake County Award Recipients

Dana Rifai

Dana Rifai was honored with the Gold Key Award, which recognizes professional advisors who are outstanding partners with Legacy Foundation in promoting philanthropy in Lake County. Dana has been a trusted partner in helping clients achieve their charitable goals and build lasting legacies, and she is honored for her many years of dedicated volunteer service to the Foundation.

 

Beth Casbon

The Excellence in Nonprofit Board Leadership Award was presented to Beth Casbon for her exceptional leadership and service on nonprofit boards. Beth brings vision, strategy, and heart to every organization she supports, strengthening governance and helping nonprofits expand their reach and impact across the region.

Dr. Michael McGee

Dr. Michael McGee was presented with the Community Spirit Award, recognizing his deep commitment to youth and community development. Dr. McGee has dedicated countless hours to mentoring programs and neighborhood initiatives, demonstrating an unwavering passion for service and for uplifting others throughout Lake County.

Centier Bank

Centier Bank received the Corporate Philanthropy Award in recognition of its longstanding commitment to community investment. Through corporate giving, employee volunteerism, and support of local initiatives, Centier Bank exemplifies what it means to invest in people and strengthen communities.

 

2023 Heart of Lake County Award Recipients

Verne P. Seehausen was presented with the Gold Key Award, recognizing his nearly 30-year involvement with Legacy Foundation in the promotion of philanthropy across Lake County.

The Excellence in Nonprofit Board Leadership Award was presented to Calvin Bellamy, for his decades of service to Northwest Indiana nonprofit boards.

Dr. Vernon G. Smith was awarded the Community Spirit Award to honor his outstanding community contributions that have enhanced, improved, and positively affected the overall quality of life in Lake County.