Northwest Indiana is a community located in our council. Try this badge to discover the area’s rich history, culture, natural resources, sports, entertainment and educational opportunites!

Steps:
1. Healthy Living
2. Arts
3. Outdoor Education
4. History and Culture
5. Stem

How We Earned the Northwest Indiana Badge

Our Cadettes earned this badge through two day trips to northwest Indiana.

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

We visited the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, earning their Junior Ranger patch. The girls loved the Dunes enough we made a return trip the following year!
If you’re not familiar with the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, it is rich in natural resources and steeped in local history.

You will easily learn about the history, local arts, science, weather and environment of northwest Indiana if you thoroughly explore the offerings of this national lakeshore.

Buffalo Farm

Rather than do a typical produce farm, we visited a buffalo farm in northwest Indiana. There, we took a tour to learn about the history of buffalo in the region, its many uses and how buffalo are raised today. We also took a ride on a wagon to see buffalo in their environment.

Eating Local

During our two trips to northwest Indiana, we made a point of eating at local establishments that supported local foods.

Candy Factory

We treated our girls to a quick visit to the Albanese Candy Factory in Merrillville. They were able to watch a quick factory tour while there.

Create Art

The final requirement was to participate in local arts in some fashion. Our girls created their own artwork inspired by their two visits to the Dunes.

Buy the Badge

You can purchase the Discovering Northwest Indiana badge through the Chicago council’s online store. The council provides a PDF of full requirements with your badge purchase.