Category: News & Announcements

The Duneland Family YMCA is proud to unveil a special space, Creative Exchange + Sound Studio, dedicated to Ty Balon, a gifted musician and digital artist who used the healing power of music and art to navigate his journey with epilepsy. “We are deeply grateful to Crystal Soliday for her generous capital gift, which will make possible the Creative Exchange + Sound Studio in memory of Ty Balon,” said Dave Kasarda, CEO of Duneland Family YMCA. “This space will honor Ty’s legacy by inspiring creativity, connection, and self-expression for years to come. Crystal’s thoughtfulness ensures that Ty’s spirit continues to resonate in a way that uplifts others and brings lasting impact to our community.”

Ty’s story is one of resilience, expression, and heart. Diagnosed with epilepsy as a child, he found his peace through music and visual design. Channeling his emotions into creative outlets, Ty developed into a deeply talented artist known for his emotive lyrics, bold artwork, and generous spirit. Though his life ended far too soon, his impact continues to ripple through the community he loved.

“Meet me in the skylines, I will wait for you to go.”
~Ty Balon

This new room will stand as a tribute to Ty’s life and legacy, made possible by the efforts of his mother, Crystal Soliday, who wants to ensure that other children and families in Chesterton and the surrounding communities can access the same creative outlets that brought her son hope and joy. “This room is more than just a space,” said Crystal. “It’s a sanctuary for kids to find their creativity, just like Ty did. My hope is that they’ll walk in here and feel inspired, empowered, and encouraged to create.”

Located on the second floor of the new Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus, the Creative Exchange + Sound Studio in Memory of Ty Balon will be designed for multi-purpose use—supporting creative collaboration, music lessons, songwriting, community workspaces, recording, mixing audio, and more. The space will also feature original digital artwork and lyrics by Ty on the walls, a testament to his vivid imagination and skilled design work. A QR code installation within the room will allow visitors to listen to Ty’s music and connect with his story in a powerful, personal way. The new space will be a key feature of the YMCA’s broader investment in the new Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus, which is designed to support physical, mental, and emotional well-being through inclusive, community-based programs. By fostering creativity and artistic expression, the YMCA continues to expand its mission of youth development, social responsibility, and healthy living in new and meaningful ways.

Community members who are inspired by Ty’s story can honor his legacy by donating to the Duneland Family YMCA in his memory. Contributions will support ongoing youth programming and ensure the space remains a vibrant hub for generations of creativity to come. To donate in memory of Ty Balon, please visit: https://www.dunelandymca.org/donate/

For more information about the new Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus project or to explore sponsorship opportunities, contact Jenna Hunter at [email protected] or visit https://www.dunelandymca.org/capitalcampaign/.

About the Duneland Family YMCA

The Duneland Family YMCA is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, serving Chesterton, Indiana and its surrounding communities, federated by YMCA of the USA. Through the Duneland Family YMCA, Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus, Forchetti Family YMCA Center For Early Learning, and Out of School Learning program sites, the Y’s work is felt throughout the community. Our mission is to put Christian values into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Financial assistance is available, regardless of income, thanks to the donors and volunteers who give their time and financial support to the YMCA so generously. More information can be located at www.dunelandymca.org.

The Duneland Family YMCA is excited to announce the grand unveiling of the Donnelly-Hecht Family Mind Body Yoga Studio—a dedicated space designed to foster wellness, mindfulness, and community connection through the practice of yoga and holistic health programs for all ages.

“We are honored to support the Duneland Family YMCA’s Healthy Living Campus and the impact it will have on both the physical and mental wellness of the entire community,” said Shannon Donnelly. “The Y is not just a ‘swim and gym;’ its mission is to provide programming that builds a healthy mind, body, and spirit for all, from infancy through the senior years. We hope this new studio will continue the Y’s outstanding work in Duneland—helping people build connections and stronger ties to the community, as well as healthier lifestyles—just as it has done for every member of our own family.”

Shannon Donnelly and Corey Hecht, both originally from neighboring counties, have lived in Porter County for the past several years and are establishing their roots in Duneland as they raise their family. Their four daughters keep them active in the community, particularly in the YMCA, within the school system, and in what feels like every athletic club in the region. Shannon is a career nonprofit professional, working in organizations dedicated to expanding access to excellent education for low-income students, while Corey is a wealth management advisor at Merrill Lynch, based in Merrillville.

Located on the second floor of the new Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus, this dedicated space will provide a wide range of holistic health and wellness programs designed for all fitness levels and interests. Members will enjoy both new and existing offerings such as family yoga, gentle yoga, sunrise yoga, yoga with weights, Pilates, and more. As a signature feature of the YMCA’s investment in the Healthy Living Campus, this addition reflects our mission to strengthen spirit, mind, and body for all through innovative and inclusive programming. “We are deeply grateful for the generous capital support from Shannon Donnelly and Corey Hecht, which will be recognized through the naming of the new Donnelly-Hecht Family Mind Body Yoga Studio,” said Dave Kasarda, CEO of Duneland Family YMCA. “Their commitment makes it possible for us to provide a welcoming space where members of all ages can focus on health, balance, and well-being. This studio will stand as a lasting reflection of their generosity and belief in the YMCA’s mission to strengthen community.”

About the Duneland Family YMCA

The Duneland Family YMCA is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, serving Chesterton, Indiana and its surrounding communities, federated by YMCA of the USA. Through the Duneland Family YMCA, Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus, Forchetti Family YMCA Center For Early Learning, and Out of School Learning program sites, the Y’s work is felt throughout the community. Our mission is to put Christian values into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Financial assistance is available, regardless of income, thanks to the donors and volunteers who give their time and financial support to the YMCA so generously. More information can be located at www.dunelandymca.org.

The Duneland Family YMCA, in partnership with the Women’s International Network of Utility Professionals (WiNUP) Metro Chicago Chapter, hosted the inaugural STEAM Like A Girl event at the Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus this past weekend in Chesterton, Indiana. The event was a resounding success, welcoming girls ages 8–14 from all over the Northwest Indiana Region for a day of hands-on learning and exploration.

Over the course of the day, participants engaged with seven interactive STEAM zones—chemistry, environmental science, art, renewable energy, electrolytes, weather, robotics, and technology. Each activity was designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and empower the next generation of innovators. By the end of the event, every girl left not only more knowledgeable but also motivated to continue exploring STEAM opportunities in the future. “Events like this are critical for showing young girls that they belong in science, technology, engineering, art, and math,” said Amy Curtis of Duneland Family YMCA. “It was inspiring to watch their creativity and confidence grow as they explored each zone. This is exactly the kind of impact the YMCA and strives to make in the communities we serve.” Nikki Goodson of NiSource and WiNUP representative added “As women in the utilities sector, we are committed to empowering the next generation of women in STEAM. Now more than ever, it’s essential to show young girls that they not only deserve a seat at any table—they belong there. That’s the driving mission behind the WiNUP STEM Community Outreach Committee.”

The Duneland Family YMCA and WiNUP extend their deepest gratitude to the dedicated volunteers and staff whose tireless efforts made this community event possible. A very special thank-you goes to the summer camp t-shirt and tote bag design winners whose artwork helped make the event even more memorable. This event would not have been possible without the generous support of sponsors: Herc Rentals, Hitachi Global Air Power US LLC, Keramida Inc., Make Make Art, NIPSCO, NiSource, and Once Upon A Coconut. Appreciation is also extended to volunteers from NIPSCO, NiSource, Dunes Learning Center, Hemlock and Lace Photography LLC, Healthy Jasmine, and many others who contributed their time and expertise.

The success of this first-ever STEAM Like A Girl event reflects the power of collaboration and community in inspiring future leaders. Plans are already underway to continue building on this momentum for years to come.

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About the Duneland Family YMCA

The Duneland Family YMCA is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, serving Chesterton, Indiana and its surrounding communities, federated by YMCA of the USA. Through the Duneland Family YMCA, Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus, Forchetti Family YMCA Center For Early Learning, and Out of School Learning program sites, the Y’s work is felt throughout the community. Our mission is to put Christian values into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Financial assistance is available, regardless of income, thanks to the donors and volunteers who give their time and financial support to the YMCA so generously. More information can be located at www.dunelandymca.org.

About WiNUP of Metro Chicago

Women’s International Network of Utility Professionals (WiNUP) is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit organization under the IRA Code. Section 501(c)(6) of the IRS code provides for the exemption of business leagues – which is an association of individuals with a common business interest. WiNUP is an organization providing a link for developing and recognizing professionals involved with utility business trends, issues, products, and services. The Metro Chicago chapter is a grass roots effort led by a group of energetic, determined women based in Merrillville, Indiana. The chapter offers a variety of professional development, social and networking, and philanthropic efforts each year. Some of our more notable offerings have included a focus on continuous improvement, virtual happy hours, and donation drives for local veteran’s organizations and at-risk youth. Learn more about WiNUP at https://winup.org

The Duneland Family YMCA has announced a temporary main entrance adjustment in effect beginning Monday, September 22^nd. This temporary main entrance modification is scheduled for the ongoing construction taking place at the Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus, and will continue through weeks to come.

The main entrance of the Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus, up until September 22^nd, has been at Door 11, also known as the “Pool Entrance”. This entrance will be temporarily gated off for safety measures while construction takes place. Instead, all visitors will be asked to use the “Auditorium Entrance” that is located on Morgan Ave. beginning on September 22^nd until construction is complete at Door 11.

The parking lot accessed from Porter Ave. will remain open for use, along with a parking lot on the corner of Morgan Ave and Chesterton Blvd. Additionally, street parking will be available.

“We’re excited to be making improvements to the Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus to better serve our members and community,” says Amy Curtis, YMCA Senior Director of Programs and Partnerships. “While Door 11 will be temporarily closed for sidewalk replacement, we appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to create a safer and more accessible entrance.” The Duneland Family YMCA encourages community members to remain alert while visiting the area and appreciates their patience as the campus undergoes this vital transformation. To follow the progress of the Duneland Healthy Living Campus or to support the mission, please visit: dunelandymca.org/capitalcampaign

The Duneland Family YMCA is proud to announce the unveiling of the John & Laurie (Wehner) Evans Healthy Aging Center, a welcoming space where older adults can thrive by staying active, engaged, and supported.

This space—formerly known as the Senior Center—offers opportunities for physical wellness, learning, social connection, and emotional well-being, all in one place. With programs designed to nurture the body, mind, and spirit, the Evans Healthy Living Center will help individuals to maintain their independence, build community, and embrace aging with vitality and purpose.

“We chose to support the Duneland Family YMCA’s Healthy Aging Center because the Y prioritizes senior wellness, creating opportunities for people 55 and older to maintain healthy lifestyles and meaningful social interactions, which are so very important,” John Evans said. “Laurie’s initial interactions with the Y focused on seniors, and they continue to hold a dear place in her heart.”

The Evans Family’s history in Porter County is a rich one. For years John has operated a well-established funeral home business and served the community as Porter County Commissioner as well as Coroner. Health and wellness have long been central as well to Laurie, who’s dedicated more than 40 years to a career in nursing, spanning emergency services and occupational health.

Located on the first floor of the new YMCA Healthy Living Campus, the John & Laurie (Wehner) Evans Healthy Aging Center is designed as a versatile, multi-purpose space serving the region’s older adults through enrichment activities, educational programs, fitness classes, games, and more.

While construction on the new main entrance continues, visitors are welcome to experience this vibrant new resource by using the temporary entrance at the Door 11—the pool entrance—off the West Porter Ave. parking lot south of the YMCA Healthy Living Campus, 651 West Morgan Ave., Chesterton.

For more information about the YMCA Healthy Living Campus project, ways to get involved, programs at the new facility, or sponsorship opportunities, go to https://www.dunelandymca.org/capitalcampaign/

The curtain rises on a new era for the old school auditorium located at 651 W. Morgan Avenue in Chesterton, thanks to a heartfelt and transformative gift to the Duneland Family YMCA from the Chamberlain family—longtime patrons, performers, and champions of the arts in Northwest Indiana. Their generous donation will play a pivotal role in the structural renovation of the Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus’s cherished historic stage, while also propelling forward a renaissance in the fine arts culture across the community and greater region.

For the Chamberlains, this is more than philanthropy—it’s deeply personal. With a rich legacy spanning decades of performance, the family has shared countless moments under stage lights. From piano recitals and choral performances to powerfully entertaining theater performances, every member of the Chamberlain family, including Mark Chamberlain and his three daughters Elizabeth, Leslie, and Taylor, has graced the very stage that will be named in their honor, both solo and side by side. Whether it has been Mark taking a lead role with one of his daughters amongst the supporting cast in a show, or the girls participating in school functions or local talent shows, they’ve developed a love for the arts that they hope future generations can discover for themselves at the Y.

“It’s an honor to have been asked to participate in this project,” said Mark Chamberlain. “I’m not doing the Y a favor, they’re really doing me a favor. Our participation will hopefully inspire others to contribute. I’m excited to see the community be able to enjoy it; to see it blossom and flourish.”

Dave Kasarda, CEO at the Duneland Family YMCA, already believes that the family’s contribution will be inspirational both now and in the future. “The Chamberlain family’s generous gift toward the Performing Arts Center at the Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus is more than a contribution — it’s a legacy of inspiration,” said Kasarda. “Their support ensures that creativity, expression, and

community will take center stage for generations to come. Through their kindness, the arts will find a true home in Duneland.”

Their support also comes with a deep-rooted belief in early childhood development and the vital role that arts play in nurturing whole brain growth, and they view the new Chamberlain Family Performing Arts Center as a vibrant hub where creativity and learning intersect.

“The importance of the arts, performing arts specifically, in so invaluable to the development of a child,” expressed Mark’s wife, Staci Chamberlain. “The arts are key to all aspects of development not only intellectually, but socially and emotionally as well.”

The YMCA will offer a variety of arts programming for all ages and abilities, from early learners through seniors, and envisions the theater will serve as a multipurpose venue capable of hosting live theatrical performances, concerts, symphonies, lectures, film screenings, and many more community events. Chairing the theater committee is Mark’s daughter Elizabeth Adcock, a longtime Duneland YMCA advocate and former board member, who is ready to help the Duneland community enhance and expand their already vibrant artistic identity. “The committee’s vision is for this to be THE destination performing arts center in Porter County and beyond,” said Adcock. With updated acoustics, lighting, seating, and more, the space will become a premier venue for both visiting and local artists, bringing easily accessible world-class cultural experiences to the community’s doorstep.

Beyond entertainment, the revitalized theater represents a broader vision of total wellness being cultivated at the Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus. The new space will support not only cultural enrichment but also educational (mind) and social (spirit) programming that strengthens the community as well. “The overarching theme at the campus is to bring the community together and in order to do that we must collaborate with other community partners. We have many other non-profit arts groups at the table with us now and are hopeful that many more will want to collaborate in the future,” explained Adcock.

To learn more about the theater renovation and other upcoming project developments at the Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus, or to support the Duneland Family YMCA Capital Campaign, please visit: www.dunelandymca.org/capitalcampaign

On Saturday, March 22nd, Chesterton alumni, residents, and local supporters came together to celebrate cherished memories and take one final lap around the former Chesterton High/Middle School and track during the heartfelt “The Last Lap” event. Thanks to our generous sponsors, the Duneland Family YMCA was able to open its doors and track gates to the community to use the track one last time and go home with a commemorative t-shirt.

“The Duneland YMCA is honored to celebrate the rich history and enduring legacy of the Chesterton High School and Chesterton Middle School track,” said Duneland YMCA CEO Dave Kasarda. “Recognizing the generations of students, athletes, and community members who have left their mark on this facility, we are proud to stand alongside the Duneland School Corporation in commemorating this milestone. The ‘Last Lap’ event serves as a tribute to the memories made here and the bright future ahead for our community.”

On this chilly March morning, a steady stream of families and individuals arrived, eager to take part in one last lap around the historic track. The morning was filled with laughter, shared memories, and heartfelt conversations, bringing the community together to celebrate the past while looking toward the future.

Duneland YMCA staff were on hand to offer guided tours of the current Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus, providing attendees with insight into the exciting plans for its future. The campus is already home to a variety of programs, including swimming lessons, senior activities, VEX robotics, and the Make Make art studio, showcasing the YMCA’s commitment to fostering wellness, learning, and community engagement. To learn more about the future of the Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus, visit Duneland Family YMCA.

We thank our sponsors who made this event possible for the community to experience a cherished landmark. Thank you to Wellsand Landscaping and Hardscapes,Lakeshore Mechanical Inc., Life Runners, Lori Tubbs Real Estate & Development Consulting, Ennis Builders, Trout Glass and Mirror, Val’s Famous Pizza & Grinders, Lana Conroy-Coldwell Banker Realty, Viking Wrestling Club, Tom Wisch Allstate, Karriman Construction, Towns of Burns Harbor, Cassiday Schade, Primetastic Auto Detailing, Berglund Construction, Duneland Chamber of Commerce, Trinity Displays, John VanDenburgh, and Kilgore Trout.

The Duneland Family YMCA is excited to announce that they are the latest recipient of generous grant funding from 1st Source Foundation. The foundation, who strive to improve the quality of life of those living, working, and raising families in their service communities, found that their mission aligns seamlessly with that of the YMCA, making their investment in the Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus project a perfect fit.
“1st Source Foundation is pleased to support Duneland Family YMCA in the construction of their new campus,” said Matt Vessely, West Region President at 1st Source Bank. “This new campus will provide invaluable and much-needed services to the greater Chesterton area. We appreciate the YMCA’s commitment to offering programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for everyone in the community.”
Not just a gift for the community today, funding from this grant will be invested into two state-of-the-art group exercise rooms, which will benefit the community for years to come. Whether it’s a high-energy spin class, a fun-filled dance party, a challenging boot camp, or a restorative yoga session, the uses of these 1st Source Foundation sponsored rooms will be endless!
While previously bestowed grant funding from the foundation in the past, this game-changing gift positions the Duneland Family YMCA to inspire and uplift the community like never before! “The generous capital gift from 1st Source Foundation is a transformational investment in the future of the Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus,” said Dave Kasarda, CEO at the Duneland Family YMCA. “Their longstanding philanthropic support has been instrumental in strengthening our programs and services, empowering individuals and families throughout our community. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to our mission and their dedication to building a healthier, stronger Duneland.” As work remains ongoing at the Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus, with exciting developments and partnerships materializing regularly, you can stay up to date by visiting www.dunelandymca.org/dunelandyhlc/. Interested in the philanthropic endeavors of 1st Source Foundation? You can learn more about the foundation by visiting www.1stsource.com/foundation/.