Casino Supports Suicide Prevention Efforts
In acknowledgment of World Suicide Prevention Day, Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana contributed $25,000 to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. This donation aids the Out of the Darkness Northwest Indiana Walk, scheduled for October 3 in Wicker Park, Highland. Presented on September 10 at the Gary casino, these funds emphasize the casino’s commitment to mental health initiatives. For event details, visit afspwalks.donordrive.com/NWIndiana.
Valparaiso University Receives Grant for Character Formation
Valparaiso University, in partnership with Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, received a $492,703 Institutional Impact grant from the Educating Character Initiative at Wake Forest University. The grant supports the “Building Lives for Good” project, which applies narrative pedagogy to help students build meaningful personal narratives. Insights gathered from the initial stages will be used to refine the program before wider implementation.
Women’s Fund of Porter County Allocates $65K
The Women’s Fund of Porter County is distributing $65,000 in grants to address community needs for women and children. The Northwest Indiana Food Council and Parents as Teachers of Porter County each receive $25,000, while the Society of St. Vincent de Paul receives $15,000. The fund focuses on supporting impactful local programs and has awarded over $1 million since its beginning. More information can be found at pccf.gives/womensfund.
Promotions at CLH, CPAs & Consultants
CLH, CPAs & Consultants in Michigan City announced new managerial roles for three employees. Allison Leffert, a LaPorte native, advances to senior manager, having built her career at CLH since 2016. Seth Bedwell, also from LaPorte, assumes a manager role after starting as an intern and then staff accountant. Ashley Boyan, a LaPorte High School alum, steps into an assistant manager position to shape client services, building on her career since 2018.
Free Car Seat Safety Events by Franciscan Health
In observance of National Child Passenger Safety Month, Franciscan Health Trauma Services is organizing free car seat safety events in Michigan City and Munster. Car seat checks are set for September 23 at Franciscan Health Michigan City’s Legacy Campus and September 25 at Munster Fire Station No. 2. These assessments, taking about 30 minutes per child, provide safety education to caregivers. Appointments are necessary. Call 219-488-1380 for details.
Health Conferences Scheduled by Franciscan Health
The Strong, Healthy, Empowered (SHE) Women’s Health Conferences by Franciscan Health are open for registration. The first conference occurs on September 26 at Purdue University Northwest, highlighting women’s health and growth. The second event is on October 23, also at Purdue, focusing on health across life’s transitions. Attendees can expect panel discussions on various health topics. More details can be found at franciscanhealthfoundation.org/events/.
PNW Enrollment Update
Starting the 2026-27 academic year, Purdue University Northwest welcomed 1,653 new undergraduates and reported a 70.8% retention rate for second-year students, indicating a significant improvement. The university noted an increase in first-year students from nearby high schools, with Indiana residents comprising 80% of the student body. The total enrollment is 6,103 for this fall.