Fun Fall Activities for You and Your Family : 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

September 8, 2025

Fun Fall Activities for You and Your Family

It’s that time of year again: the time when leaves turn bright colors and start to crunch beneath your feet, the air gets brisk and fresh and Mother Nature prepares for the cold coming months ahead. It’s fall, and it’s the most colorful season of the year!

Fall is a fun and joyous time, full of pumpkins and spooky nights and delicious food. If you’re looking to celebrate this multicolor season in style with your family, check out these fun fall adventures you need to go on this year.

1. Apple Picking

Get festive this fall and go on an apple picking adventure through an orchard. Find some yummy red apples, golden delicious or granny smiths for a variety of flavors.

2. Corn Maze

Sometimes the best way to come together is to get lost together. This fall, take your family on an unforgettable maze adventure through a bright and crisp cornfield.

3. Football

Ah, the most wonderful time of the year… football season! Get together to watch your favorite teams battle it out, or go for a friendly game of touch in the backyard.

4. Hiking

Hiking is a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the changing colors of Mother Nature. Don’t live near any mountains or hiking trails? That’s okay! Walks or bike rides are great this time of year too.

5. Hayride

Hayrack rides are fun for all ages. Check out any local orchards, vineyards or attractions which offer hayrack rides for your family to enjoy together.

6. Leaf Gathering

The leaves are changing, and are more beautiful now than ever! Spend an afternoon gathering leaves as a family, then get creative by trying out some new crafts or decorating with them.

7. Picnic

Everybody loves a delicious picnic. Pack a lunch for you and your family, then go for a walk in the park to enjoy a picnic together. It’s the best of both worlds: food and nature.

8. Haunted House

What would fall be without the spooky goodness of haunted houses? Check locally for a real thriller, or a more laid back kid-friendly version. Either way, the ghosts will be flying!

9. Baking

One of the greatest parts of fall is the food. Get your family in the spirit of things by trying some new baking recipes. Because who doesn’t love pie?

10. Pumpkin Carving

And of course, pumpkin carving. Pumpkins are great for any time, whether they’re sitting on your doorstep or for eating pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin carving is family-friendly and fun for all.

This fall, enjoy the colorful changing of Mother Nature by embarking on new adventures with your family. Whether it’s going for a drive through the trees or taking a walk along a trail, get outside and soak up all the colors the outdoors has to offer. Because when you’re having fun, your family is making memories.

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