INTERNATIONAL UNION OF OPERATING ENGINEERS LOCAL 150 DONATES $10,000 TO UNITED WAY

NORTHWEST INDIANA

Merrillville, IN – May 13, 2025 – United Way Northwest Indiana proudly accepted a $10,000 donation from

the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150 during a special check presentation ceremony held

earlier this month, at their local Merrillville office.

David Fagan Financial Secretary of Local 150 presented the check to the United Way, including Pete Smith,

Labor Liaison and Shannon Buck Regional Account Executive. This generous contribution underscores Local

150’s continued commitment to uplifting communities throughout Northwest Indiana.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of Local 150,” said Pete Smith. “This partnership is a testament

to the power of collective action. With support like this, we’re able to reach deeper into the communities we

serve and provide people with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.”

United Way Northwest Indiana seeks to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community to

advance the common good. The organization focuses on four key pillars: Financial Security, Youth

Opportunity, Healthy Individuals, and Resilient Communities. Through its core initiatives, Level Up, and a

network of nonprofit partners, United Way Northwest Indiana helps individuals remove barriers to success,

gain skills, and access resources to build a foundation for long-term success.

David Fagan spoke about the importance of organized labor investing back into the communities it helps

build. “Our members are not only workers—they’re neighbors, parents, and community leaders. We’re proud to

partner with United Way Northwest Indiana because they do more than talk about change—they make it

happen.”

The $10,000 donation will help support programs that strengthen communities and provide resources for

individuals and families working toward a better future. These services aim to address root causes of poverty

and hardship—creating sustainable, long-term solutions for individuals and families across the Region.

United Way Northwest Indiana 951 Eastport Center Dr. Valparaiso IN 46383

“Every dollar makes a difference, and this gift from Local 150 will have a real impact on local lives,” said

Shannon Buck. “When we unite with community-minded partners like the International Union of Operating

Engineers Local 150, we multiply our impact.”

To learn more about United Way Northwest Indiana or to join the movement to build stronger communities,

visit www.unitedwaynwi.org.

#

About United Way Northwest Indiana

United Way Northwest Indiana is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives across Lake,

Porter, Jasper, Newton, and Starke counties. We are at the forefront of creating positive community impact

through strategic initiatives aligned with our four core pillars: Financial Security, Youth Opportunity, Healthy

Individuals, and Resilient Communities.

Our mission is to mobilize the caring power of our community to advance the common good, tackling local

challenges with innovative solutions and collaborative partnerships.

Through our flagship Level Up Program and other community-driven initiatives, United Way Northwest

Indiana strives to foster lasting change and improve the quality of life for all residents. We are committed to

building a stronger, more resilient Northwest Indiana — UNITED IS THE WAY.