Last Minute Gift Ideas That Give Back : Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana

Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana Announces Leadership Transition and Reaffirms Continued Commitment to Its Mission

Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana today announced that Executive Director Dawn Michaels, who has served in the role for the past eight years, will be stepping down effective December 31, 2025. Michaels leaves with more than a decade of dedicated service, visionary leadership, and organizational advancement, leaving a legacy that will influence the mission for years to come.

During Michaels’ tenure, Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana experienced transformational growth and measurable community impact. The organization expanded the development of essential workforce housing across Lake County—with notable progress in Lake Station—completed one Veteran home per year and continued to grow the ReStore into a thriving resource that supports ongoing mission work. Under her direction, partnerships deepened, programs strengthened, and the organization’s ability to serve families in need of safe, affordable housing continued to rise.

“Dawn has made an incredible impact on our organization and the communities we serve,” said Chris Johnson, Board President “Through her leadership and commitment to our mission, we are stronger, more resilient, and better positioned for the future. We are deeply grateful for the past decade of service and impact.”

Reflecting on her time with the organization, Michaels shared:

“It has been such a joy to serve Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana and work alongside such a passionate board, staff, volunteers, and community. I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and confident that the organization’s brightest days are still ahead.”

The Board of Directors has initiated a leadership transition plan to ensure continuity and sustained success. Information regarding the Executive Director position can be found on the organization’s website: https://www.nwihabitat.org/who-we-are/careers.html

Michaels will work closely with the Board and leadership team during the transition to support a seamless handover of responsibilities.

Ask Us How You Can Get a Tax Credit for Your Donation!

We are so excited to share with you that donors to Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana are eligible for a tax credit equal to half of their donations!

Donors need to contact us to get the tax credit form and more information on how you can participate.

Direct your tax dollars to Lake County, Indiana by helping give your neighbors a hand-up and not a hand-out through Habitat for Humanity's homeownership program!

Call Amanda to get all the information! 219-923-7265 ext. 1304

December 18, 2023

Last Minute Gift Ideas That Give Back

The holidays will soon be upon us, which means the season of giving has officially arrived. If you and your family celebrate Christmas, you have one week left to get the perfect gift for that special someone.

If you’re focused on living a more altruistic lifestyle, there are also lots of options out there for gifts you can give that also give back to the community. Sounds pretty great, right? We’ve compiled a list just for you on last minute gift ideas that give back. Try some of these out to celebrate the holidays more altruistically this year.

1. Small Businesses

Supporting small businesses in your community is a great opportunity to give back while giving this year. When you buy from a small business, you can feel confident in supporting an actual person in your community with actual needs like putting food on the table, rather than a high-up CEO you’ve never met before.

Small businesses and small business owners are a valuable component of any community; when you buy from them, you put money back into the neighborhood you care about, and create a more altruistic environment for those around you. This holiday season, check out local businesses nearby to see what gifts you can purchase there. Chances are they have the exact same or comparable gift you were looking at in the first place.

2. Handmade Goods

Purchasing handmade goods from your area is a great way to be more altruistic in your holiday giving this season. Some stores offer handmade goods either made by local artisans, or by artisans from different countries and communities all around the world. Oftentimes, stores like these even contribute part or all of the profits to the artisans themselves.

Look for fair trade handmade gifts to give to the special people in your life, and give while giving back. When you purchase handmade goods, not only can you be confident in supporting another person, but you can also feel more comfortable in products that are ethically made and often environmentally friendly.

3. Philanthropic Companies

Even big companies can be a great way to give back during the giving season. Many companies—both local and national—have various philanthropic causes going on throughout the year, but especially during the holidays.

Businesses like Love Your Melon (donates 50% of profits to support pediatric cancer research), TOMS (one-for-one shoe program) and Lula’s Garden (supports groups that provide access to clean water) all offer great gift ideas for loved ones on your list, while giving back part of their proceeds to causes they care about. If you do choose to buy from a large company this year, check online for some options to see companies who give back.

This holiday season, live a more altruistic lifestyle by giving gifts that give back to more than just one person. Finish out your end-of-the-year shopping by trying some of these ideas to give to your loved ones.

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