It’s MEF’s 25th Anniversary and we are celebrating with a “Denim and Diamonds” Gala!  

This special fundraising event will be held on Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 1-4 p.m., at The Croatian Center in Merrillville for adults 21 and over. The Center is located at 8550 Taft Street, Merrillville, IN 46410.

The afternoon will be filled with basket raffles, DJ, buffet dinner, friendly fellowship, and more! Come wear your jeans and some bling, and let’s have some fun while supporting Merrillville students and teachers!

Tickets are only $50 per person and can be purchased from Give Lively.

The mission of the Merrillville Education Foundation is to be the primary private sector partner in supporting public education in Merrillville.  Grants provided by the MEF offer resources that are not available through public education funding.

Over the past years, we have funded over 578 grants totaling over $461,000. These grants have impacted over 148,000 students in the Merrillville schools from kindergarten through high school. The grants are chosen based on their innovative approach and their educational contribution.  By attending “Denim and Diamonds Gala”, you will help us continue this mission for many more years to come.

If you cannot attend, but would still like to support the MEF, you can make a contribution at the Give Lively link or on our website through PayPal. Sponsorship details can also be found in our printable MEF Gala Sponsor Information Letter…