Businesses and community organizations unite to build a dream

GARY | On Friday and Saturday, over two hundred volunteers showed their support at former Tolletson High School for the beginning of a "dream come true." Gary Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson and Congressman Pete Visclosky were among the volunteers dressed and ready to work.

"Today's volunteer activity is the first of many as citizens continue to roll up their sleeves to help our city move forward," said Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson. "Our children deserve it."

Northern Public Service Company (NIPSCO), The Times Media Co. and several other organizations joined the Boys and Girls Club of Northwest Indiana to help in this Clean Sweep Initiative implemented to help get the John Will Anderson Boys and Girls Club Community Center underway.

"People are working so hard to renew Gary, Indiana and focus on the children," said Congressman Visclosky. "It's absolutely heartwarming and I am fortunate for the opportunity to be part of this effort."

The community effort has united hundreds of volunteers to be part of this 2-day project to help prepare the building for demolition and the construction of the new state-of-the-art building scheduled for completion in 2013.

"This is a dream come true," said Bill Masterson, Times Media Company publisher. "To see an enormous amount of people come out and support this initiative is inspiring. People from all over want to be part of Gary's growth and development. We are all here to help the kids."

Urban League of Young Professionals of Northwest Indiana's Anne Edwards has a strong connection to the building as she proudly claims to be a "Tolleston Alumni" and was part of the 1993 State Spell Bowl Champs, whose commemorative sign is still showcased prominently in the cafeteria.

"It's wonderful to see everyone come together to help such a great cause that will help so many young people and provide them with so many opportunities," said Anne Edwards.

The Clean Sweep Initiative was spearheaded by NIPSCO's Manager of Community Relations and Communications Eddie Melton.

"The volunteers have been terrific," said Melton. "We are very excited today and the hallways were cleared out quickly and we have cleaned out several zones ahead of schedule because of their commitment."

The clean up efforts will continue at the Tolleston site, 2700 West 19th Avenue, Gary on Saturday.

To view the entire photo album, visit http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.298144096912775.71152.151321984928321&type=3&l=068a57a504