A Valpo Life in the Spotlight: Minakshi Ghuman

A Valpo Life in the Spotlight: Minakshi Ghuman

“That you can get up and make a difference in someone’s life, be happy, experience the little things and see the good in them, see the good in people, in the beauty all around you, that’s what inspires me. There is too much in life to do, to find, too many people to get to know to ever be uninspired,” says Minakshi Ghuman, this week’s Life in the Spotlight. From these words and her incredible amount of participation in the Valparaiso community, it’s clear she’s an individual making waves in the community with her dedication to making a positive difference in the lives and the community around her.

Growing up in North India, Minakshi was raised by a mother who often shared food and homemade clothing with others in need within the community. Her mother often told her, “If you give you get,” and that phrase sticks with Minakshi to this day.

“Helping people, working with non-profits, that’s what makes me tick,” she says. It shows, too, looking at all of the ways in which Minakshi has become involved in the community throughout her life in Northwest Indiana. Her community involvement first began with volunteering with a friend through Meals on Wheels of Northwest Indiana. Since then, she has become involved in a variety of organizations, acting on many boards as well.

Minakshi has served as the president of the Porter County Medical Alliance, helped with Bingo at local nursing homes, serves on the board at the Valparaiso International Center, has chaired the Chesterton Art Fair through the Chesterton Art Center, has served as the Philanthropy Chairperson with Lives of Doctor Wives, and has been involved with the homeless shelter. As a real estate agent, she has worked with Project Neighbors to provide families with money to aid in buying a home, and she helped the homeless shelter find a new location. Minakshi has worked with the American Cancer society, the American Heart Association, with the Caring Place, and was a founding member of the local Red Ribbon Foundation. She has also worked as a team leader for Relay for Life and has helped with the Widowed Person’s Service.

“I truly believe these organizations make a difference,” she says in explanation to why she so actively partakes in such a variety of organizations. Minakshi is also currently on the board at Taltree Arboretum which holds a special place in her heart as a place of meditation and relaxation. “Introducing people to a place they can relax feels wonderful,” she says.

Minakshi is grateful for all of the opportunities she has had to help, and she is grateful for the many friends she has made in the process. “Valpo has given me a place where I can grow and help others to grow,” she says. “There’s a sense of community and excitement for involvement.” Within the community she says, “I’ve made so many friends from so many walks of life, and friends become your family. I’m so lucky to have so many interesting friends.”

Through all of her work in the community, Minakshi has made and incredible difference in the lives of many, and she continues to do so. With her warm and inviting personality, and her genuine interest in others, there’s no question to how she has made such a positive impact on the lives of those around her. “Sometimes people only want a cup of coffee and someone to talk to,” she says, “and to be able to give that to them feels good.”

A woman of incredible passion and good will, Minakshi has been a positive force in this community over the years and continues to be. Her presence in the community truly makes a difference, and her genuine efforts and appreciation of life are truly an inspiration.