Michigan City-based Nest Community Shelter has named its new board of directors slate for 2025.
The leadership transition coincides with the expansion of Nest’s services into La Porte in January 2025. The shelter has joined forces with the City of La Porte and the Center Township Trustee Office to provide support.
Kristy Hahn steps into the role of board president. She succeeds Emily Robbins. Shannon Walker, a longtime Nest supporter, takes the role of vice president. Additionally, Erica Boyd joined the board in late 2024.
“Our unhoused neighbors hold a special place in my heart, so I'm deeply honored to serve as board president of Nest,” Hahn said in a press release. “In this role, I'm committed to supporting our executive director Harrison Holtkamp and his dedicated staff while actively working to dispel common misconceptions about homelessness and our services.”
Hahn added that many people aren’t aware that Nest offers long-term support through case management and intervention programs.
“We're not simply a revolving door,” Hahn said.
Nest’s board of directors kicked off the year with an in-person meeting at the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce. They discussed goals and initiatives for the upcoming year.
The mayor’s office of La Porte and Center Township trustee recently contacted Nest about the urgent need for an emergency overnight shelter. In response, the board collaborated to launch Nest La Porte, which opened in January. The expansion allowed Nest to provide support to more vulnerable individuals and families across the county.
“This year looks to be a year of many firsts for our organization as we grow to meet the ever-increasing needs of our community,” Holtkamp said. “This board has a firm grasp and understanding of our mission and the communities we serve.”
Nest is gearing up for two fundraising events in early 2025 to support its initiatives. Nest is hosting its Coldest Night of the Year 5k event. The fundraiser raises awareness for rural homelessness. The board also announced its inaugural Nest Emerald Evening Gala, to take place May 3 at Blue Chip Casino in Michigan City.
Nest Community Shelter is a volunteer-driven organization. The shelter provides emergency shelter, recovery support and a holistic approach to addressing homelessness in the Michigan City community.
