CHESTERTON, IN – December 10, 2025 – The Duneland Family YMCA is proud to announce that a generous grant from Indiana Dunes Tourism enabled significant accessibility improvements to the Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus (Duneland YHLC) auditorium, including upgraded ADA-compliant seating and an increased number of designated accessible seats overall. These enhancements ensure that community members and visitors to the campus of all abilities can comfortably attend and enjoy events in the space. Enhanced seating is now located both in the front of the auditorium, as well as in the back so those in need can still sit with their families. 

“We are absolutely thrilled to have received the Dunes Tourism Grant last year to support the new accessible seating in our remodeled auditorium,” said Dave Kasarda, CEO at the Duneland Family YMCA. “This investment has transformed the space and ensures that every member of our community can enjoy performances, programs, and events with comfort and dignity. We are deeply grateful for Dunes Tourism’s partnership and their commitment to expanding access for all.”  With improved seating in place, the Duneland YHLC anticipates hosting a dynamic lineup of events in the auditorium—from concerts and theater productions to large-scale meetings, lectures, and special presentations.  

“The goal and vision of the theater is to provide an accessible variety of programming and entertainment that is additive to Duneland's love for the arts, family and our community,” expressed Elizabeth Adcock, Chair of both the Duneland YHLC Committee and Duneland YHLC Theater Committee. “We seek to work with the businesses in town to make Duneland the destination for entertainment for families, individuals and communities.” 

The first event in the newly enhanced venue will be the Forchetti Family YMCA Center for Early Learning’s Christmas program on Friday, December 12th, 2025, and the Y looks forward to welcoming families and guests to experience the refreshed space. In addition to seating upgrades, the space is also currently in the process of being further transformed via the installation of new stage lighting, sound, and video equipment as well as new curtains.

Community members are encouraged to watch for upcoming events on campus and prepare for a revival of arts, culture, and community programming on the YHLC stage! Information can be found on social media channels and at Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus – Duneland Family YMCA.