Celebrating 31 Years of Building Community

On August 29, Legacy Foundation held its 31st Annual Celebration at the Dean and Barbara White Community Center. Over 200 Northwest Indiana residents, nonprofits, and community leaders gathered to celebrate 31 years of building community. 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!

Celebrating Lake County’s Outstanding Community Leaders

During the 2023 Annual Celebration, Legacy Foundation announced the inaugural Heart of Lake County Award recipients, community leaders who use their time and talents to positively impact Lake County.

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. As a CPA of over 40 years, he has worked with his clients to set up multiple endowed funds at the foundation and has established his own funds for organizations that are meaningful to him.

The Excellence in Nonprofit Board Leadership Award was presented to Calvin Bellamy, for his decades of service to Northwest Indiana nonprofit boards. His sharp attention to detail has strengthened Lake County serving nonprofit organizations in governance, financial sustainability, leadership, and program impact.

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. Current professor, state representative, and nonprofit leader, Dr. Smith has impacted the lives of thousands within Lake County.

Overview of Heart of Lake County Awards

Community Spirit Award: Presented to an individual who has made outstanding community contributions that have enhanced, improved, or positively affected the overall quality of life in Lake County, Indiana. (Public nomination)

Excellence in Nonprofit Board Leadership Award: Presented to a Lake County, Indiana serving nonprofit board member who has demonstrated excellence in four focus areas: governance, leadership, financial sustainability, and program impact. (Public nomination)

Gold Key Society Induction: Recognizing a professional advisor who has played a critical role in helping local philanthropists make a difference in Lake County, Indiana. (Internal selection)