Indiana Grants $42 Million to Boost Recycling Efforts Statewide

Indiana’s Recycling Market Development Board has announced the allocation of $42 million in grant funding to support recycling initiatives across the state. Among the six recipients is Goodwill Industries of Michiana, Inc., based in Lake County, which will receive $301,011 to divert an estimated 32,812 tons of recyclable material annually. This initiative is projected to create 42 jobs and prevent nearly 200,000 tons of waste from entering landfills each year.

The grants, administered by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, are part of a broader strategy to enhance recycling programs statewide. Other grant recipients include CT Polymers in Marshall County, awarded $500,000; Greencycle in Marion County, receiving $453,989; and Nexus IN RNG – Laporte, LLC, also granted $500,000. Additional funding was provided to Plastic Recycling Inc. and the Trustees of Indiana University.

New Appointments to State Boards and Commissions

In related news, residents from Lake, Porter, and LaPorte counties have been appointed to various state boards and commissions by Governor Mike Braun. The appointments include Elizabeth Bergeron to the Indiana Protection and Advocacy Services Commission, Rick Smith to the Underground Plant Protection Advisory Committee, and Thomas Collins to the Gary/Chicago International Airport Authority Board of Directors. Other notable appointments include Chuck Williams to the Ports of Indiana Commission and Richard Hudson to the State Board of Registration for Land Surveyors.

Dunes Tourism Seeks Community Projects for Grant Funding

In an effort to enhance tourism in Porter County, Indiana Dunes Tourism has launched a grant program offering $50,000 to support community projects and marketing initiatives. The deadline for grant applications is set for December 1, 2024, with recipients to be announced on January 5, 2025. Eligible projects include events and initiatives designed to attract visitors from outside the county, with all for-profit and non-profit organizations encouraged to apply.

Healthcare Expansion in Crown Point

On the healthcare front, Dr. Marrium Siddiqui, an infectious disease physician, has joined the Franciscan Physician Network in Crown Point and is now accepting new patients. Dr. Siddiqui earned her medical degree from Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her residency and fellowship at reputable institutions in Indiana and Illinois.

Mentorship Program for Women Leaders

The Northwest Indiana Influential Women Association has opened applications for its mentoring program aimed at fostering leadership among women. The six-month program provides mentees with access to experienced mentors and focuses on personal and professional development. Applications for the second cohort will be accepted until December 3, 2024.

Purdue University Northwest Introduces Specialty License Plate

Starting in January 2025, residents of Indiana will have the chance to support Purdue University Northwest by purchasing a specialty license plate. Each plate will feature the university’s gold and black colors and logo, with proceeds helping to fund scholarships for students. The total fee for reserving a plate is $40, with $25 allocated directly to scholarships.

These initiatives reflect Indiana’s commitment to environmental sustainability, community development, and education, showcasing the state’s dedication to fostering growth across multiple sectors.