In an effort to strengthen support systems for vulnerable residents, Calumet Township Trustee Tai Adkins will host the Spring 2025 Safety Net Symposium: Building Stronger Communities Together on Wednesday, May 21. The day-long event will be held at the historic Marquette Park Pavilion, 1 N. Grand Boulevard in Gary, Indiana, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Designed to foster collaboration and increase awareness around critical support services, the symposium will convene regional experts, community leaders, and service providers for a series of panels aimed at addressing urgent social needs in Gary and unincorporated Calumet Township.
Trustee Adkins said the gathering reflects a broader commitment to enhancing the township’s ability to serve residents in a more modern, effective, and compassionate way.
Attendees will hear from a diverse lineup of panelists who will tackle issues related to housing, food access, and workforce development—three areas identified as key pillars in building a more equitable community.
One of the highlighted sessions, “Housing Accessibility, Affordability, and Availability in Calumet Township: Challenges and Opportunities,” will feature Taryl Bonds, Executive Director of the Gary Housing Authority; Terry Seljan of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Gary; and Angela Paul, Executive Director of Sojourner Truth House.
Another panel titled “Ensuring Sustainable Local Access to Nutritious Food in Calumet Township” will include Margaret Pollak, Sociology Department Chair at Indiana University Northwest; Pastor Curtis Whittaker of Faith Farms Gary; and Chef Blaque, CEO of Steel City Bakery. Trustee Adkins will moderate the discussion.
“The Future of Work in Northwest Indiana” will be the focus of a third panel, with participation from Ellen Sczarletta, Director of the Center for Urban and Regional Excellence at Indiana University Northwest, and Lisa Daugherty, CEO of the Center for Workforce Innovations.
The symposium is free and open to the public. However, advance registration is required. Complimentary breakfast and lunch will be provided to all registered attendees.
To register or obtain more information, contact Whitney Chapman, Director of Housing Insecurity and Deputy Assistant, at [email protected] or call (219) 880-4045.
Calumet Township, led by Trustee Tai Adkins, delivers essential services to residents through programs such as rental assistance, food vouchers, medical and burial aid, and workforce development. The township serves both the city of Gary and surrounding unincorporated areas, working to promote dignity, stability, and opportunity for those most in need.