La PORTE COUNTY, July 7, 2026 – The Salvation Army serving La Porte County will welcome leaders from Google for its annual Light the Path Civic Luncheon on Friday, August 7, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Blue Chip Casino, bringing together business, civic, and nonprofit leaders for a conversation about corporate values, community impact, and opportunities to support local residents.

Featured speakers will be Broderick Green, Public Affairs Manager for Google, and Tiffany McCree, Community & Workforce Development Manager for Google. The discussion will be moderated by Katie Eaton, Public Affairs Manager for NIPSCO and member of The Salvation Army of Michigan City's Advisory Board.

The Light the Path Luncheon is sponsored by NIPSCO with support from the NiSource Charitable Foundation

Guests will hear how Google's mission and corporate values help create hope and opportunity across communities, while exploring the important role businesses can play in supporting nonprofit organizations and addressing community needs.

"We are honored to welcome Google to La Porte County and grateful for the opportunity to hear directly from leaders who are helping shape corporate engagement on a national scale," said Major Becky Simmons, who oversees The Salvation Army's operations in Michigan City and La Porte alongside her husband, Major Dale Simmons. "We look forward to learning more about Google's values and discussing how corporations can partner with nonprofit organizations to create meaningful change. Businesses have a unique opportunity and responsibility to help strengthen communities, support neighbors facing hardship, and provide pathways to hope for local families."

Proceeds from the event will support The Salvation Army's case management programs serving La Porte County residents. These programs help individuals and families overcome barriers to stability by connecting them with resources, developing personalized action plans, and working toward long-term solutions that break the cycle of generational poverty.

The event will feature a buffet lunch and a unique envelope fundraiser, giving attendees the chance to support Salvation Army programs while competing for a variety of exciting prizes. Participants may win items such as a NIPSCO bill credit, Sinai Forum tickets, a boat cruise from Harbor Country Adventures, local gift certificates, entertainment packages, and experiences from businesses throughout La Porte County.

Individual tickets are $50 per person. Table sponsorships are available for $600 and include seating for ten guests, promotional recognition, and support for Salvation Army programs serving local residents.

Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased at salarmy.us/lightthepath2026.

For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, or ticket purchases, contact Jessica O'Brien at jessica.obrien@usc.salvationarmy.org or call (219) 874-6885.