Munster has been selected as the second community in Indiana to participate in the nationally recognized Community Heart & Soul® initiative, marking a major step forward in resident-driven planning and civic engagement.
The program is supported by Legacy Foundation, the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana, and is designed to help towns identify what residents value most about their community, envision the future they want, and create a roadmap to get there — together.
As part of the initiative, Munster will receive training, technical assistance, and up to $90,000 in funding to support the Community Heart & Soul process and early projects that grow directly out of resident input.
“The Heart & Soul process creates powerful opportunities for neighbors to connect and be part of shaping what comes next,” said Kelly Anoe, President and CEO of Legacy Foundation. “We’re proud to support Munster as it engages residents in shaping a shared vision that strengthens connection, builds leadership, and informs meaningful action.”
Munster joins Cedar Lake, which launched its Heart & Soul programming in January 2025 as Indiana’s first Heart & Soul Community. The initiative has been used successfully in communities across the country for more than a decade, with an emphasis on listening, inclusivity, and long-term impact.
Local leaders say that history of success is one of the program’s biggest strengths.
“I think this is a great opportunity for Munster,” said Brad Hemingway, a local community leader involved in the effort. “This program has been around for over ten years with proven results, so we’re not going into this blind. It’s not just another survey — it’s truly driven by the people who live here.”
The two-year initiative will be implemented by the Munster Civic Foundation, in coordination with the Town of Munster, and will focus on strengthening community connections, elevating resident voices, developing future leaders, and creating a community action plan rooted in shared values.
According to organizers, participation is meant to be broad and accessible. “This is for the whole community — from grade school students to retirees,” Hemingway said. “Schools, churches, nonprofits, organizations, and anyone who lives or works in Munster all have a role to play. The goal is to hear from people who may not always feel they’ve had a chance to speak up and make Munster an even better place to live.”
Munster Civic Foundation President Chuck Gardiner emphasized the long-term impact of the effort.
“We believe that a connected community is a thriving community,” Gardiner said. “By using these funds to bridge gaps and amplify local voices, we’re ensuring that Munster remains a premier destination to live, work, and play. We’re excited to collaborate with our neighbors to build a more vibrant future.”
As part of the rollout, the Town of Munster Heart & Soul initiative will be managed by a part-time project coordinator. The coordinator will oversee project administration, work closely with the Heart & Soul Core Team, coordinate volunteers, track progress, and help celebrate milestones throughout the process.
The Munster Civic Foundation is currently accepting applications for the position. Interested Town of Munster residents can visit www.munster.org to apply by February 18.
Community leaders say this is just the beginning — and that the success of the initiative will ultimately be defined by how many voices are heard along the way.
