Giving Back In Merrillville: Local Causes To Support This Season

Giving Tuesday is a global movement that encourages people to give back to their communities, typically through charitable donations, volunteer work or acts of kindness. It takes place annually on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving in the U.S., right after Black Friday and Cyber Monday. While it's celebrated widely, the real impact happens when we do good right at home by supporting local businesses, causes and organizations working to uplift our own communities.

We've rounded up a list of some great organizations, causes and initiatives in the Merrillville area. Please keep in mind, this is by no means an exhaustive list — just a starting point for discovering amazing local opportunities to give back, not only on Giving Tuesday but year-round! Be sure to contact each organization directly to find out about their hours or the best ways you can contribute.

American Red Cross Indiana Region Northwest Chapter

The Northwest Chapter of the American Red Cross Indiana Region provides disaster assistance to residents across 23 counties, including Lake County. Those who wish to give back can provide monetary donations, sign up for disaster relief volunteer opportunities or host an online fundraiser for those in need.
Learn more: redcross.org/local/indiana/about-us/locations/northwest-indiana.html

Exceptional Equestrians Unlimited Inc.

Exceptional Equestrians Unlimited Inc. provides equine-assisted therapy for children and adults with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and other special needs. As of the time of publication, the Merrillville-based organization is actively seeking volunteers to run therapeutic lessons and care for the horses in the barn.
Learn more: eeunwi.org

Food Bank of Northwest Indiana

The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana offers food assistance to individuals and families in the Lake and Porter County regions. Programming includes the Mobile Marketplace, which delivers food directly to communities, and partnerships with various local food pantries and food kitchens.
Learn more: foodbanknwi.org

Habitat for Humanity Northwest Indiana

The Northwest Indiana branch of Habitat for Humanity builds affordable housing with and for those in need. The organization is largely staffed by volunteers and funded in whole by donations, 100% of which are used to build homes throughout Northwest Indiana.
Learn more: nwihabitat.org

Indiana Parenting Institute

For over 20 years, Indiana Parenting Institute has provided family management and life skills training to caregivers across the state. In addition to in-office services in nearby Gary, support is also available by phone, online or in the home.
Learn more: indianaparentinginstitute.org

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.