Lake County community celebrates holiday spirit and workplace excellence
The holiday season brought joy and recognition to Lake County residents this month, as local organizations showcased the power of community support and workplace appreciation through heartwarming celebrations that touched hundreds of lives.
More than 500 children experienced an unforgettable evening of holiday magic Thursday as the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Northwest Indiana hosted its annual Christmas to Remember celebration in Merrillville, according to Region News Source. Young participants ages five through 18 enjoyed an action-packed night featuring gift opening, visits with Santa and special guests, holiday crafting activities, and a festive pizza party.
Each child received a personalized gift bag containing essential winter items including coats, boots, hats and gloves, along with age-appropriate toys. The generosity extended beyond basic necessities, creating lasting memories for families throughout the region.
Werner's Christmas Wonderland emerged as a major supporter of the event, donating thousands of toys collected from donation boxes across Northwest Indiana and at their Christmas light display located at 9108 Morton Street in Merrillville, Region News Source noted. The owners have consistently contributed to this annual tradition, demonstrating the collaborative spirit that makes such large-scale community events possible.
Organizers described the evening as overwhelmingly successful, highlighting the excitement and gratitude shared among children, families, volunteers and staff members. The event has grown substantially since its inception in 2018, with participation increasing each year as word spreads throughout the community.
"This created a night filled with festive spirit, laughter, and memories to last well beyond the season," organizers stated, expressing deep appreciation for community members, sponsors and hundreds of volunteers whose dedication brought the celebration to life.
Meanwhile, workplace recognition took center stage at Belvedere Senior Housing, where administrative assistant Melissa Pawlus was named the 2025 Shining Star during the facility's annual Employee of the Year celebration Dec. 3, Great News Life reported. The award represents residents' appreciation for staff members who consistently exceed expectations in their caregiving roles.
The selection process begins with a two-week nomination period where residents submit detailed written recommendations explaining why specific employees deserve recognition. A committee comprising previous Shining Star recipients reviews every nomination, focusing on compelling, specific reasons rather than simple popularity.
"The nominations have to include a reason why. It has to be very specific, with a reason why that person should win," explained Andrea Puente, director of sales and marketing, Great News Life stated.
This year brought eight nominees — the highest number in the program's history — reflecting residents' appreciation for numerous deserving staff members. The winner remains unaware of their selection until the executive director announces their name during the celebration program.
One nomination for Pawlus particularly resonated with the selection committee: "No matter how many people are at her desk, Melissa is always kind and patient. She answers the phone in a kind voice, but she also helps with flyers, makes copies, delivers packages and schedules events for residents. She makes medical appointments and also does cooking classes with us. She participates in all community events and does it despite suffering one of the most tragic losses anyone could experience. You are the heart of Belvedere, Melissa."
The invitation-only celebration, held from 2-3 p.m. in the dining room, featured lunch with sandwiches, vegetable cups and cake for dessert. Attendees included residents, family members, former winners, community members and staff. Pawlus's brother and nephew made a surprise appearance, having kept the secret until her name was announced.
LaVelva Burks, last year's recipient and assistant director of nursing, attended the celebration and reflected on her own experience receiving the honor. "It was surprising and overwhelming how the residents really appreciate me and how they thought of me," Burks shared with Great News Life. "It just made me really happy that they thought so much of me."
Cassandra Ford, the 2023 recipient and move-in coordinator, emphasized the award's meaningful impact on recipients. "I was a little emotional because I was not aware that a lot of the residents felt the way they did about me," Ford revealed. "I just do what I do without thinking about it or expecting praise."
Pawlus arrived slightly late to her own celebration, having been working diligently until the last moment. When her name was announced, she became emotional and expressed gratitude for the recognition during what has been an exceptionally difficult period in her personal life.
"It means a lot to be recognized for my work. I recently lost my husband and coming here, the residents have been awesome and taking care of me, checking on me," Pawlus disclosed to Great News Life. "Working with everyone here and coming in laughing with the residents has been amazing. They constantly make me laugh all day, every day. That has made these past few months bearable."
Residents in attendance cheered and lined up to congratulate Pawlus with hugs, demonstrating the genuine affection and mutual support that characterizes the Belvedere community. Her recognition highlights how workplace relationships can provide crucial emotional support during life's most challenging moments.
Both celebrations underscore Lake County's strong sense of community, where organizations prioritize creating meaningful connections and showing appreciation for those who make positive differences in others' lives.
