United Way Northwest Indiana, in partnership with Legacy Foundation, the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and the Town of Merrillville, is mobilizing volunteers to assist residents impacted by recent severe storms and is calling on community members to join a coordinated cleanup effort on Friday, June 26, 2026.
The recovery initiative will focus on helping homeowners and families remove fallen trees, clear debris, and address storm-related property damage. Volunteers with specialized skills, equipment, and experience are especially needed to help accelerate recovery efforts for residents facing significant cleanup challenges.
Immediate Volunteer Needs
- Heavy equipment operators
- Chainsaw operators
- Tree service professionals
- Contractors and skilled tradespeople
- Truck and trailer owners
- Agricultural and construction equipment operators
- General labor volunteers
- Faith-based organizations and civic groups willing to serve
Many affected residents continue to face substantial obstacles in clearing damaged properties and restoring safe conditions. Volunteers with technical expertise and equipment can make an immediate and meaningful impact on recovery efforts.
Volunteer Information
Date: Friday, June 26, 2026
Location: 6121 Cleveland Street, Merrillville, Indiana
Volunteer Check-In: 8:00 a.m.
Volunteers are strongly encouraged to register in advance through United Way Northwest Indiana's Volunteer Resource Center. Detailed instructions, safety information, and project assignments will be provided prior to arrival and again onsite.
Working together, community partners aim to provide immediate relief while helping residents safely begin the recovery process and rebuild from the storm's impact.
Community Partners
- Town of Merrillville
- Legacy Foundation
- United Way Northwest Indiana
- American Red Cross
- Salvation Army
Residents seeking assistance or individuals interested in volunteering can contact United Way Northwest Indiana at 219-464-3583 or visit www.unitedwaynwi.org for additional information.
If you are unable to volunteer, please consider supporting recovery efforts by making a donation to the Merrillville Emergency Response Fund, established in partnership with Legacy Foundation. Donations will help provide critical assistance and resources to residents impacted by the recent storms: Merrillville Emergency Response Fund
About United Way Northwest Indiana
United Way Northwest Indiana mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. Serving Lake, Porter, Jasper, Newton, and Starke counties, United Way Northwest Indiana works to improve financial stability, youth opportunity, healthy communities, and community resiliency while bringing together partners, volunteers, donors, and organizations to address the region's most pressing challenges.
CHRIS WHITE | PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
951 Eastport Center Drive | Valparaiso, IN 46383
Phone: 219.329.1369 | Cell: 219.713.3250
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