CHESTERTON, IN – September 2, 2025 – 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, it empowers individuals to maintain 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,” said John Evans. “Laurie’s initial interactions with the Y focused on seniors, and they continue to hold a dear place in her heart.” The Evans family holds a rich history in Porter County, operating an established funeral home business and serving the community through various leadership and service roles. Health and wellness have long been central to Laurie’s life as well. She has dedicated more than 40 years to a career in nursing, spanning emergency services and occupational health.

Located on the first floor of the new Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus, the John & Laurie (Wehner) Evans Healthy Aging Center is designed as a versatile, multi-purpose space to serve 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 enter through the temporary entrance to experience this vibrant new resource at the Door 11/Pool Entrance off the Porter Avenue Parking Lot south of the Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus, 651 West Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, Indiana 46304.

For more information about the new Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus project, ways to get involved or attend programs at the new center, or to explore sponsorship opportunities, go to 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, 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: 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.