Heart of Lake County After Event

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 2025 Annual Celebration, Legacy Foundation honored the recipients of the Heart of Lake County Awards, individuals and organizations whose time, talent, and leadership have made a meaningful impact across Lake County.

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.

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.

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.

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

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)