The Shirley Heinze Land Trust

Indiana American Water is proud to share that the American Water Charitable Foundation, a philanthropic non-profit organization established by American Water (NYSE: AWK), provided Shirley Heinze Land Trust with a $150,000 Water and Environmental grant. This funding will catalyze major improvements, positioning Ivanhoe South Preserve in Gary, Indiana, as a premier destination to learn about the disappearing dune and swale landscapes inland along Lake Michigan’s south shore.

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Indiana American Water is proud to share that the American Water Charitable Foundation provided Shirley Heinze Land Trust with a $150,000 Water and Environmental grant. This funding will catalyze major improvements, positioning Ivanhoe South Preserve in Gary, Indiana, as a premier destination to learn about the disappearing dune and swale landscapes inland along Lake Michigan’s south shore.

“Shirley Heinze Land Trust is proud to partner with the American Water Charitable Foundation on our Ivanhoe South Community Development and Education Initiative in the City of Gary,” said Kris Krouse, Executive Director, Shirley Heinze Land Trust. “This project will create walkability, safety, a gathering space, engagement programming, and a fund to ensure the improvements made are lasting at the Ivanhoe South Nature Preserve, a globally rare dune-and-swale habitat. We are grateful for this phenomenal support from the American Water Charitable Foundation to make Ivanhoe South a community asset to be proud of, improve overall community of life, and make this significant land and water resource relevant to the surrounding community.”

The Ivanhoe South Nature Preserve stands as a 53-acre sanctuary of rare dune-and-swale ecosystems, miraculously untouched by significant development. Nestled between Gary’s bustling industrial zones and residential neighborhoods, this precious remnant offers a glimpse into the unique environmental heritage of the region.

"We are deeply honored by the generous investment from the American Water Charitable Foundation to the Shirley Heinze Land Trust. As a proud member of this community, I am filled with pride knowing that this support will enable future generations to cultivate a profound understanding and appreciation of our vital natural resources. This is especially significant for Gary, given our rich heritage and unique location along the shores of Lake Michigan," said Justin Mount, Northwest Indiana District Manager, Indiana American Water.