United Way Northwest Indiana hosts signature fundraiser with inaugural Blue Jean Ball: Diamonds & Denim event 

Casual met couture for the first time at United Way Northwest Indiana’s inaugural Blue Jean Ball: Diamonds & Denim on Thursday, April 30. The fundraising event was hosted at Hebron’s Design Barn and raised money for Region families through live music, dancing, and community connection. Funds will be directly used to support United Way Northwest Indiana’s programs assisting families in the Region. 

Ari Hensley, outreach director with Lerner and Rowe, was the chair of this event. With this being the first ever Blue Jean Ball, the goal was to make the event simple enough for everyone to participate in the theme while still being a unique gala. 

“It really just stemmed from wanting to have a fundraiser that was different,” Hensley said. “With Lerner and Rowe, it’s very important for us to support our community in a variety of ways, and that includes partnering with different organizations. We started working with United Way Northwest Indiana in 2025 and knew we wanted to grow that partnership with them. This is one of the ways that we’re able to do that.” 

Over 180 leaders and community members gathered to learn more about United Way Northwest Indiana, hear President and CEO Chris White’s special announcement, but also to take the opportunity to make new friends. 

“This event creates a welcoming space for our supporters, stakeholders, and community members to better understand the direction United Way Northwest Indiana is taking now and into the future,” said Kristina Fry.  

The Blue Jean Ball promised an unforgettable night for guests. As guests arrived dressed in their denim and diamonds, they were able to mingle and network with other community members dedicated to making a difference. United Way Northwest Indiana benefits greatly from strong community support, so finding ways to provide a good time while supporting good causes is something the organization is always looking to do. 

“We’re really excited about the turnout,” said Chris White, president and CEO of United Way Northwest Indiana. “The sheer number of supporters that we’ve had, both in terms of sponsors and tickets, have been incredible. Knowing that this is a very busy time of year, and yet, we had 170 tickets sold for the event.” 

This signature fundraiser brought together community leaders, corporate partners, and changemakers from across Northwest Indiana to celebrate the night with entertainment and networking opportunities. 

Live music from local Region favorite Nate Venturelli provided a backdrop as guests enjoyed catered food and drinks. They were also able to participate in fun activities like a wine pull and an auction, leaving with more than just a good feeling and memories. 

The night also gave guests a first look at what’s next for United Way Northwest Indiana. 

“Another one of the reasons for this event is for us to tell everyone that, in June, we will announce our return to grant making to local organizations,” White said. “We’ve given ourselves a deadline, and we’ll be announcing the program in June.” 

The Blue Jean Ball highlighted an important truth about supporting families in Northwest Indiana: no one can do it alone. All  proceeds from the Blue Jean Ball went directly to support United Way Northwest Indiana, as they work to address the most pressing challenges facing Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) households throughout the Region. 

“The ALICE population represents individuals and families who are employed but still struggle to earn enough to meet their basic living expenses,” said Chris White. “Unfortunately, nearly 42% of households across the Region fall into this category. With raising prices and wages, it’s a constant challenge. It’s more of a challenge for one-earner households, so we’re hoping to be able to address these issues and help these families out as we move forward.” 

Donations came from every angle at this event. While the sponsors and ticket sales provided a helping hand, there was also an opportunity for attendees to place a donation of $500, $250, $150, $50, or $25 at the event. Josh Birky, business banker at 1st Source Bank, guided that part of the program, which also featured a live auction. Some of the items auctioned off included a custom charcoal grill built by Level Up program partners, Strike and Walk Da Cup of Gary, Indiana, a private paella party for 10 at Don Quijote Restaurant, and Lerner and Rowe provided two tickets to every concert this season at Hometown Jams. 

While this was the inaugural Blue Jean Ball event, the dedication that the community shared in support of United Way Northwest Indiana has been inspirational to the team. United Way Northwest Indiana is hopeful to continue doing events like this one that can serve a good cause while celebrating a unique theme. 

“We’re about convening people and bringing them together. We figured, ‘What better way to do it than at an event after work, on a day where spring is finally here,’” White said. “When we created this event, we wanted it to represent our brand. We’re about getting involved and engaged in the communities, creating opportunities for people to meet and interact. That’s what this event is all about.” 

For more information on United Way Northwest Indiana, you can visit unitedwaynwi.org.