LOK Awarded for Outstanding Philanthropy in 2015

LOKWTG-LogoOn Thursday, November 19, 2015 The Lindsey O'Brien Kesling (LOK) Wishing Tree Foundation accepted the Outstanding Philanthropist Award, presented by the the Northwest Indiana Chapter of American Fundraising Professionals. Lubeznik Center for the Arts nominated LOK Wishing Tree Foundation for its significant philanthropic impact on our region.

LCA has partnered with the LOK Wishing Tree Foundation since 2013 to bring dance, music, and visual art classes to school children throughout the region. Unique opportunities in the arts are offered - such as violin lessons, hip-hop dance classes, or photography instruction - that these children might not have access to otherwise. The students then showcase their works in an arts expo each June at LCA that includes an exhibition, musical and dance performances.

LOK Wishing Tree Foundation's partnership with LCA is just a small portion of what this foundation gives back to our region. Dot Kesling created the foundation in honor of her daughter, Lindsey O'Brien Kesling, who passed away from carbon monoxide poisoning. The LOK website states "LOK is honored to receive recognition for our work, if only to better promote our mission and shine a brighter light on the causes we care about so passionately: protecting people from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and promoting arts opportunities for youth."

The organization also partners with The Boys and Girls Club and The South Shore Dance Alliance to remember Lindsey through the arts while also ensuring those who participate are more educated about the dangers of carbon monoxide and the importance of having effective detectors in your home.

LOK also states, "We thank Lubeznik Center for their strong support, AFP for hosting the event and also the Unity Foundation, our fiscal sponsor and partner in so many important ways."

Janet Bloch, LCA Education Director, stated at the event that "LCA nominated Dot for her most impressive qualities of strength, conviction and optimism; she has been able to turn her deepest sorrow into hopeful determination. Her resiliency and faith has transformed her unconditional love for Lindsey into a legacy that is meaningful to hundreds of children and families throughout the region."

Lubeznik Center for the Arts is located at 101 W. 2nd St., at the lakefront in Michigan City, IN. Weekday hours are from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (CST). Weekend hours are from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM (CST). Thursdays: 10 - 7* (Memorial Day - Labor Day) *Hyndman Gallery opens at 2 pm. For more information please visit lubeznikcenter.org or call 219-874-4900.

The LCA is funded, in part, by South Shore Arts and the Indiana Arts Commission, a state agency.