Lakeshore’s “Building Blocks” initiative is a comprehensive multimedia project dedicated to exploring the science of early childhood development and addressing the challenges faced by families in Northwest Indiana. Through television, radio, digital platforms, and community events, the initiative aims to elevate the importance of high-quality early learning and provide essential resources to families with young children.
The first television episode of “Building Blocks” premiered in October 2024 and is available to stream below as well as on the free PBS Video App. The second episode of Building Blocks is set to premiere on March 26th, 2025 at 8 PM!
The full six-episode series will be released in 2025 and will cover critical topics such as brain development, maternal mental health, early intervention, and the effects of childhood experiences.
We are excited to announce the newest edition to this project, "Building Blocks: The Podcast."
This podcast will take a deep dive into the early stages of childhood development and beyond. Host Dr. Mary Jane Eisenhauer of First Things First Porter County will converse with local experts, parents, and practitioners about the building blocks for brain and language development. Tune in to learn more about how Northwest Indiana is serving families and young children!
Donate to The Building Blocks Matching Fund
Lakeshore received a $100,000 matching grant from Legacy Foundation to support our Building Blocks initiative! All donations to this fund will be eligible for a $1-for-$1 match, and 25% of the funds will be invested in an endowment at Legacy Foundation to provide ongoing support for the Building Blocks program and Lakeshore's educational initiatives for many years to come. Donate Now!
Thanks to Lakeshore board member Sue Eleuterio and her husband Tom Sourlis, donations made to Lakeshore's "Building Blocks" initiative will now be matched up to $30,000. That's a potential $60,000 donation to get Lakeshore closer to the goal of $100,000!
Watch & Listen Building Blocks: The Podcast
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In this episode of Building Blocks, Dr. Mary Jane Eisenhauer welcomes Congressman Frank Mrvan to discuss critical issues surrounding maternal and infant health in Northwest Indiana. They explore the importance of early childhood development, the first 1,000 days of life, and programs aimed at lowering infant and maternal mortality rates. Congressman Mrvan shares insights from his time as a township trustee and his role in Congress, emphasizing the need for strong community support systems, efficient funding allocation, and policy advocacy. Tune in for an in-depth conversation on how investment in early childhood programs creates lasting benefits for families and the region. -
Jennifer Trowbridge, a dynamic advocate for community health and well-being, is President and CEO of CoAction, dedicated to housing stability and economic growth. Jen empowers families and individuals through thoughtful leadership and groundbreaking programs. Her expertise spans healthcare, social services, and strategic leadership, but her heart lies in the stories of the people she serves. -
Christy Jarka, Director of the Trojan Learning Center at Duneland School Corporation, is a dedicated educator. At the Duneland Early Learning Center, she is the Conductor of Possibilities where families with young children begin their journey playing, singing, learning and loving. Duneland Early Learning Center recently received a grant from First Things First to reach more families in Chesterton. Learn more about the Duneland Early Learning Center: https://www.duneland.k12.in.us/
Watch Building Blocks: The TV Show
The Building Blocks initiative would not be possible without the expertise and guidance of co-producer Mary Jane Eisenhauer of First Things First Porter County, the support of the Legacy Foundation, Purdue University Northwest, Porter County Community Foundation, and Lakeshore Board Member, Susan Eleuterio and her husband, Tom Sourlis.
