Michigan City Municipal Band
June 16, 2026. Jim Eriksson introduced today’s speaker, Jeffrey Scott Diebler, Conductor, Michigan City Municipal Band. The band is in its 158th season. Jeffrey has been the conductor since 2014. The Municipal Band plays at least ten concerts every season. Concerts are every Thursday and take place at Washington Park. They start at 7:30 pm and play all types of music, from classics to contemporary. for about an hour without any intermission. Concerts typically start with the Star-Spangled Banner and close with patriotic themed songs where the audience can join in. The band consists of approximately fifty members. Jeffrey announced that for the July 23rdconcert, the Municipal Band was lucky to get two members from US Marine Band to play with them. If you plan to attend this concert, in the event of rain, it will take place at Michigan City High School. Jeffery has been a professor at Valparaiso University since 1992, and he is in charge of all the various bands at the college.
Thank you Jeffery Diebler for the music and entertainment you provide for our community.
See: https://mcmunicipalband.org/ for more information.
Michigan City Midnight Hoops
June 9, 2026. Dan Granquist introduced today's speaker, Molly Heath from the Michigan City Midnight Hoops program. This project was inspired by a national program, formed years earlier, designed to create a structured and uplifting environment for young people in our community. It kicked off Sunday, June 14th. Last year there were over one hundred participants. Games are held at the Elston Gym and take place starting at 6 PM for kids ages 13-15. After 8 PM youths ages 16-25 play up until Midnight. There is a small fee to participate, $20.00, for the summer. Participants are provided with water and Gatorade. Business community members are invited to support the program by providing water/Gatorade, or other in-kind donations. They are also encouraged to share their support for the program by scheduling a time to explain to the youth what their business does in our community, and answer any questions from the players. Molly did share that expenses for the program include having to hire referees for the games, providing basketballs and purchasing supplies for cleanup after play. The YMCA is allowing players use the GYM for no charge.
Thank you Molly Heath for the help you provide the youth in our community!
If you are interested in learning more you can contact Molly Heath at Ph. 219-210-8999 or go to www.mcmidnighthoops@gmail.com, or follow on Facebook (Michigan Midnight Hoop).
President and CEO Unity Foundation of La Porte County
June 2, 2026. Todays’ speaker is Jeri Pat Gabbert, President & CEO, Unity Foundation of La Porte County. Jeri Pat described her many years of working in the gifting/giving sector, at Valpo University, IU- NW, and Porter County Community Foundation. She stated that the Unity Foundation currently manages $68 million in assets. Last year the Unity Foundation awarded $325,000 in scholarships to 174 local students for the 2025/2026 school year. In 2025 The foundation funded sixty projects worth over $240K in our local community. Lilly Endowment Inc. has recently granted $3.6 million to The Unity Foundation to provide affordable housing in our area. Jeri Pat concluded her formal presentation by entertaining questions from club members.
Thank you Geri Pat for your great contribution to La Porte County!
For more information see: https://uflc.net
American Legion Skwiat Post 451
May 26, 2026. Daniel Granquist introduced today’s speaker, Socrates T. Gray who is coordinating the MC American Legion Youth Baseball Program. One of the benefits of the American Legion baseball program is that unlike travel teams, American Legion Baseball is free for local youth, up to the age of eighteen. Socrates stated that the MC Team is looking for a new manager when the team enters play next season. The American Legion is raising funds so that next June they will have all their funding in place for the season opening in 2027. Socrates answered questions from club members regarding the American Legion baseball program in Michigan City, as well as in other local communities that Michigan City would play next year.
Chancellor, Ivy Tech
May 19, 2026. Daniel Granquist introduced today’s speaker, Aco Sikowski, Chancellor, Ivy Tech Community College, Michigan City and Valpo Campuses. Chancellor Sikowski informed the club that the Valpo campus has over 12,000 students taking classes. There are 6,300 high school students earning dual credits—college credit classes taken while in high school, that also count toward HS graduation. Trained High School educators teach these dual credit classes so there is no cost to the student—saving the high school student thousands of dollars toward their college education. Chancellor Sikowski also said 81% of the Ivy Tech students have $0 debt when they graduate. He discussed the significant growth of the Welding Lab at the Valpo campus The program started with just one professor, and today the school employs three full-time professors. Even with this increase in teachers, the program still has a strong waiting list of students looking apply. Ivy tech is proud of its 45 ft mobile lab, which you may see traveling the area. The mobile lab is used as a recruiting tool in the community to inform people on all the programs that Ivy Tech has to offer.
Thank you Chancellor Sikowski for your service to the youth in our community.
See https://www.ivytech.edufor more information.
South Shore Sailing School
April 28, 2026. Dan Granquist introduced today’s speaker Shannan P. Lynes an instructor from South Shore Sailing School (SSSS). Shannan said the club started over 40 years ago and operates as a not-for-profit organization. The goal is to provide sailing experience in a safe and fun way. The SSSS has several local partnerships. One of the partnerships is with Michigan City Area Schools where Students are able receive no cost sailing lessons. The kids program typically has 26 students ranging from 8-16 years old. Classes are for two weeks, with two per day. One in the morning and another in the afternoon. The SSSS also offers sailing classes for adults. Most sailors start with smaller boats and over time, move up to larger boats. The majority of the boats used in training students are under 14 ft in length.
Thank you Shannan for the work you do with area children!
For more information see: www.southshoresailingschool.org
Assistant Athletic Director, MCAS
April 14, 2026. Jim Erickson introduced today’s speaker, Sara Krachinski, Asst. Athletic Director, Michigan City Area Schools. Sara presented the Exchange Club with a Thank You Certificate for the Clubs Donation which was used to purchase uniforms for many Elementary school student athletes. She talked about the challenging process of finding uniforms for all the elementary school athletes and discussed the work required to obtain a grant this year that enabled all the athletes to receive uniforms. Sara displayed samples for club members to see the quality of the uniforms.
Thank you Sara Krachinski for your commitment to the education of todays’ youth!
See the MCAS Athletic Web site: gomcwolves.com.
Stepping Stone Shelter for Women
4-7-2026. Today’s speaker is Jenelle Elwood, Operation’s Manager for Stepping Stone Shelter for Women, Inc. This was Jennelle’s first week with her new employer and she was filling in as our guest speaker today on short notice. She outlined the principal areas that the organization supports. Stepping Stone gives assistance to victims of Sexual or Domestic Violence as well as Human Trafficking. The shelter allows people to stay up to a maximum of 18 months. Support services for children are also offered. All services are confidential and available for free, to the recipient. Stepping Stone is looking for Volunteers, so if you, or someone you know would be interested, please reach out to https://steppingstoneshelter.org/
Thank you Jenelle for your service to the community.
Michigan City Chamber of Commerce
3-31-2026 Today’s speaker is Kurt Gillins, President of the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce. Kurt updated club members on some of the projects underway at the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce. Upcoming events include:
A “Speed Networking Experience” at Michigan City Police Department, where attendees have 4 minute meetings with various members of the police department.
A Manufacturers Forum which brings together Professionals and Leaders to share ideas and strengthen relationships.
“Coffee Connection”, a monthly networking event for Chamber members and prospective members.
See: http://www.michigancitychamber.com for more information.
Thank you Kurt for an enlightening presentation.
Program Director, Brinka Cross Gardens
3-24-2026 Daniel Granquist introduced today’s speaker Olga Petruszyn, Program Director for Brincka Cross Gardens and Restoration. Olga is Chairperson for the Restoration. She presented a wonderful slide show with many pictures of the gardens, from before the organization acquired the property, and after improvements were completed. Olga stated that the property is in Porter County, however about 30% of the volunteers who donate their time are from Michigan City. The gardens are open every day from dawn to dusk. Common uses are for hiking, dog walking, and plant identification. The gardens are also available for Weddings, Birthdays Parties and Picnics.
Thank you Olga for a beautiful presentation!
See: https://www.portercountyparks.org/brincka for more information.
Save the Dunes
March 17, 2026. Today’s speaker is Katie Hobgood, Program Director, Save the Dunes Conservation Fund. Katie stated that the organization has been around since 1952. Today they have seven employees, headquartered at Barker House, which was built in 1903 and sits on four acres in Michigan City, near Barker Woods and Barker Middle School. Barker House and Save the Dunes work together as an organization. Save the Dunes was instrumental in helping to protect the dunes that are now part of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Park. Katie shared with the club that students from Barker School helped develop the Masterplan for Barker House and Save the Dunes. Students provided their input for both groups. Katie, at the end of her presentation, took questions from club members and provided a guidebook on the organization to club. See https://www.savedunes.org for more information.
MC Exchange Club Program Director
March 3, 2026. Program Chairman Daniel Granquist gave the club an update on our new “Day with Police” program. Dan described how students get to experience a tour of the various departments at the Police Station. The total visit takes about 90 minutes to complete. Students are encouraged to ask questions and interact with the police officers. The program is a crucial step towards building positive relationships with the youth of our community (students are in sixth grade). Daniel also reminded club members that our original “Day in Court Program” is going strong. We will be celebrating this year’s success with a special luncheon (May 5) featuring Judge Oss and selected students whose essays were chosen that described their experience attending a Day in Court. Dan went on to discuss areas where the club can help prevent child abuse. It may not be visible but abuse and trafficking is definitely happening our area.
Goodwill Industries of Michiana, Inc.
2-17-2026. Today’s speaker is Kenneth Lee, Public Affairs Manager for Goodwill Industries of Michiana, Inc. Ken stated that Goodwill is more than just a store. Last year over 5,264 people were served. Help was provided in writing resumes, finding jobs and obtaining High School Diplomas by its Workforce function. Goodwill assisted 1,151 people through its Veteran Resource Center. Information is provided on benefits and Vets can receive clothing, haircuts, and food. Ken also told us that Goodwill Industries had over 22,000 pounds of items donated last year. These donations are repurposed, saving many from being added to the local landfill. Visit https://goodwill-ni.org for more information.
La Porte County YMCA
2-3-2026. Daniel Granquist, program director, introduced today’s speaker Scott Helmkamp, CEO LaPorte County Family YMCA. Scott has been in this role for about two years. Today he informed us of the YMCA’s 2024-2027 Strategic Plan, including the Clubs Vision and Mission statements as well as its five guiding principles: Valuing Servant Leadership, Inclusion and Equity, Transparency, Teamwork, and Stewardship. The YMCA’s Strategic plan has three major goals – Promoting Healthy Outcomes, Developing a Magnetic Culture and Positioning the YMCA for Growth. Scott is excited about a new project, “Take the YMCA” on the road, a mobile YMCA. This is a truck that will be filled with things like basketball hoops and other sporting equipment as well as S.T.E.M. materials, allowing activities to be held at dedicated events in our community. Scott made club members aware that the YMCA offers reciprocity nationally, where a Michigan City member can use facilities in other cities. The YMCA also offers the “Silver Sneakers” program, where insurance companies cover the membership cost of qualified individuals.
Thank you, Scott, for the service you give to our community! Visit http://lpymca.org for more information
La Porte County Boys and Girls Clubs
January 27, 2026. Today’s speaker is Michelle Shirk, CEO of the Boys and Girls Clubs of La Porte County. Michelle provided updates on current operations. Construction of the new home for the Michigan City Club is entering its’ second phase. The first phase, obtaining property and clearing land, is in completion. This next phase will include looking for funding opportunities. Michelle reminded club members that there is no charge to the children who are attending the Clubs in La Porte County. That is unique, as many clubs charge for their services. Programs offered include: Homework Help, Mentoring, Sports and Recreation, STEAM and much more. There are approximately 750 children, kindergarten through eighth grade, attending various after school programs throughout the county. All nine La Porte County Boys and Girls Clubs are funded by community donations and grants. Thank you, Michelle, for the help you give to the children in our area! For more information see https://www.bgclpc.org/ The Michigan City Exchange Club presented La Porte County Boys and Girls Clubs with a donation for $1,000 as part of our support for youth programs in the community.
Michigan City Park Department
January 13, 2025. Phil Freese introduced today’s speaker, Will “Mike” Walker, from the MC Parks Department. Will is a 2005 MCHS graduate and received a degree from Bethel College. Will talked about how his college coach inspired and motivated him to be the best possible person he could be and that he would be a future leader in life. Will discussed his nine-year professional basketball career that allowed him to see the world.
Congratulations Will, on your achievements, and thank you for sharing your experiences with us.
Homeward Bound Villages
12-16-2025 Program Chairman, Daniel Granquist, introduced today’s speaker, Sandi Keller, President of Homeward Bound Villages. Sandi gave an update on progress at the Karwick Road Site for “Creating a Community Through Affordable Housing.” Three units are now occupied. Ages of the tenants range from 24 to 74. Tenants sign a 1-year lease with a maximum of two people per unit. A total of twelve, one-or two-bedroom, 500 sq. ft. units, and a community room, will be constructed. Sandi explained that the concept for the development was centered around the residents’ making decisions regarding operation of the property and the community room. Thank you Sandi for your commitment to helping our community. https://www.homewardboundvillages.org
Development Director, Junior Achievement
Today’s Speaker is Jessica Hilary, Development Director, Junior Achievement. Jessica’s territory covers twenty-seven counties in Indiana. She informed the club that Junior Achievement is a non-profit organization which provides multiple educational programs starting at the Elementary School level, continuing through Middle School and High School. “Changing the Lives of Young People” by “Empowering the Next Generation” is the goal. Categories are Financial Literacy, Entrepreneurship, and Work Readiness, which include Creative Problem Solutions. Some of the programs offered are “JA All About Cars”, “Career Success”, “Introduction to Business and Technology” and many, many more. Jessica said that Volunteers teach programs in the schools. It is easy to volunteer. The time commitment is typically once a week for approximately 45 minutes and programs may run as short as five class sessions. Junior Achievement will provide all the materials necessary for the program, as well as meet with the Volunteer, in advance of the class, to discuss presentation and answer any questions regarding their role as program presenter. Volunteers are supported by the teacher who will always be in the room. Students typically respond very positively when someone other than their classroom teacher is presenting new material to them. No teaching experience is required to volunteer for Junior Achievement. Donations are also accepted. https://laportecounty.ja.org/about/index.
Nest Community Shelter
11-25-2025. Today’s Speaker, Jackie Thomas, is from Nest Community Shelter. Nest is starting its 25th year of service, born out of the Interfaith Pad Program. Jackie recounted that back in 2020 it operated from Sacred Heart Church, as a place for homeless to sleep. Nest serves Men, Women, and Women with Children. Jackie offered some statistics on their services, noting 73% are female, and 4% are children. Many people might be surprised that 60% of those staying at the Nest have full time jobs! Last year Nest sheltered over 336 guests. Ninety two of these were eventually able to find permanent housing. This supports the goal of the organization, to be a temporary stop. Last year over 22,512 meals were provided out of the Nest’s basement kitchen. New in 2025, the Nest started their Blog, providing a resource of information, educating the community on hidden homeless. Also, in 2025 the Nest opened another location, this one in LaPorte, staying open from January 2025 until April 2025. Jackie stated that the Laporte location re-opened in October and will stay open until April 2026. The best ways to support Nest are to Volunteer time or make a financial contribution.
Salvation Army
11-18-2025 Daniel Granquist introduced today’s speaker Jessica O’Brian, from the Salvation Army. Jessica started her presentation by thanking the club for all their support over the years. She informed club members that as of 9/1/25, the Salvation Army in LaPorte, became part of the MC Salvation Army. Jessica talked about the Thanksgiving Holiday coming up. If you know of someone who has nobody to talk to or celebrate Thanksgiving with, encourage them to come to the Salvation Army for tasty food and good conversations. Many people this year that are homebound will have food delivered to them.
The Holiday Season is when the Salvation Army generates about 30% of its donations for the year. Kicking off the season of giving is the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle event.
Jessica identified three things that are important to the Salvation Army this time of the year:
1) Financial Donations. These allow the Salvation Army to go out and buy items at various vendors at wholesale cost rather than purchasing goods at retail.
2) Donate your time. Donations at Kettles are especially important this year. Volunteering to ring bells at the kettles eliminates having to pay people to ring bells for donations.
3) Toys—Make donation of toys through the Toys for Tot program.
Jessica concluded her presentation citing that the Salvation Army was recently voted the sixth best Charity by Forbes Magazine for efficiently using the dollars donated to the charity.
To help, visit https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/in/michigan-city/franklin-st-corps/
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