In this edition of Wes’s Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, encourages us to live more magnanimously in the year ahead. In a brief message, he challenges us to act with generosity and grace—reminding us that a broader spirit and open hands can make a lasting impact through LUM. Watch, reflect, and share.

A new year brings fresh goals—giving back, building community, living with greater purpose. Lafayette Urban Ministry can help turn those resolutions into lasting action.

GIVING BACK

If your goal is to give back, LUM offers meaningful volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule, from food programs and homeless services to child care and special events. Serving others creates routine and accountability — key ingredients for keeping your New Year's resolutions.

BUILDING COMMUNITY

If you want to strengthen community, LUM connects you with neighbors, staff, and volunteers working together to meet real needs. These relationships transform good intentions into consistent commitment.

GREATER PURPOSE

If your resolution is to live more generously, LUM makes it easy to align your resources with your values through financial gifts, donations of needed items, and planned giving. This year, choose resolutions rooted in purpose. With LUM, your goals can become habits of compassion and impact that last well beyond January.

With LUM, there’s a volunteer opportunity for everyone. Mentor a child, help at the Food Pantry, assist at the 48-bed Emergency Shelter, or support in countless other ways. Some roles require training, while others just need a willing heart and helping hands. Make 2026 the year you find your purpose, achieve your goals, and give back in ways that truly matter. Your time restores stability, affirms dignity, and offers care in life’s hardest moments — reminding people they are seen. Volunteer with LUM today. Explore volunteer opportunities with LUM including these areas:

• Protein Food Pantry
• Food Rescue Initiative

• After School Program

• Shelter Meals
• Overnight Shelter Volunteers

• Afternoon Receptionist
• Deep Cleaning Days

Sometimes the most meaningful way to support Lafayette Urban Ministry is with in-kind donations — the items LUM uses and needs the most to support our neighbors in need, like food pantry staples or youth program snacks. You can drop them off or ship directly via our Amazon Wish List. Want to make it fun? Host a Collection Drive and get creative—build Toilet Paper Towers or other playful displays before donating. Of course, cash gifts are always welcome too, helping LUM provide essential services and respond quickly to community needs.