In this edition of Wes's Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, shares his gratitude to the individuals who have the means and foresight to leave a lasting legacy of love to LUM through planned giving. Learn more by watching 59 seconds and by reading below. Please watch & SHARE with others.

Summer break is a time of freedom and excitement, but for some kids, it can mean hunger, boredom, and missed opportunities. That is where LUM steps in to fill the gap.

The LUM 5th Quarter Summer Learning Program is here to help. Open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., this program offers math challenges, reading activities, hands-on science experiments, and of course, nutritious meals and snacks. When these students return to school in the fall, they will be better prepared and ready to excel academically.

Looking for an adventure? LUM Camp is just the ticket. From July 23 to 26, boys and girls ages 8 to 10 from LUM families will enjoy a week of fun at Hanging Rock Camp. With activities like hiking, arts and crafts, boating, swimming, campfires, and more — plus hearty meals and caring counselors — it is an experience they will

You can make a difference in the lives of these local children by supporting LUM Youth Programs. Your donation of $300 can send one child to LUM Camp, or you can contribute to the 5th Quarter Summer Learning Program, providing study trips, recreational activities, or art and science classes. Ready to make a difference? Visit LUMserve.org/youth-programs to learn more and donate today. Let's ensure every child has a summer filled with fun, learning, and wonder.

Supporting organizations like Lafayette Urban Ministry reflects our values in action. For more than 52 years, LUM has served Tippecanoe County, addressing basic needs and uplifting the community.

By including LUM in your estate planning and naming LUM as a beneficiary in your will, you ensure the this vital work may continue for generations, making a real difference in the lives of those in need.

It's a meaningful way to support both LUM and your own legacy.

Leaving a legacy gift to Lafayette Urban Ministry is a testament to our shared humanity and commitment to a just, compassionate society. Our legacy is measured not by wealth, but by the lives we touch and the positive change we inspire. Supporting LUM makes a lasting difference, uplifting our neighbors and enriching our community for generations. If you wish to begin this conversation, email or call Wes Tillett, LUM executive director (lum@LUMserve.org | 765-423-2691)

Lafayette Urban Ministry recently dove into the book Poverty, by America to deepen the understanding of poverty and improve the support for the community. Hosted by Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, and led by Joe Micon and Jud Dolphin, former LUM executive directors, the project engaged LUM staff and board members in insightful discussions.

The book highlighted that poverty is more than just a lack of money: it involves systemic issues like unfair rules, stereotypes, and generational problems. It debunked many common myths about poverty, helping LUM members gain a clearer understanding of the real challenges people face. Inspired by this project, LUM is committed to challenging misconceptions and addressing systemic issues. Through activities like these and the work of the Social Justice Team, LUM aims to shift perspectives on poverty and promote respect and kindness. With this new understanding, LUM is dedicated to creating a fairer, more caring community for all.

LUM needs Bagged To-Go Meals. These meals are provided each weekday throughout the year, ensuring that those in need have access to nutritious food. This is a perfect way for families, youth groups, churches, classrooms, and businesses to get involved and make a difference.

Sign up to provide 40 Bagged To-Go Meals which are available at the LUM Office (420 N 4th Street, Lafayette, IN) weekdays starting at 11 a.m. Each bag should include a sandwich (e.g., PB&J, ham & cheese, tuna packs, or Vienna sausages), a few snacks (a salty, sweet & "later" snack), fruit/veggie (apple, orange, fruit cup), drink (bottled water, Capri Sun), and necessary utensils. Feel free to decorate the bags with happy pictures. Variety is appreciated.

NOW through SUNDAY, join us for the Survival Shuffle to benefit LUM Camp, sponsored by the Jaques family, honoring Tom Jaques, who was the LUM facilities manager from 1997 to 2011. Tom, who passed away from cancer in 2020, loved LUM Camp. The Survival Shuffle name pays tribute to Tom's unique jogging style.

HOW to PARTICIPATE:

Reflect on the joy of LUM Camp and remember a loved one during your activity. After completing your Survival Shuffle, consider donating to LUM to help send a child to camp. Any amount is appreciated. Let's celebrate Tom's legacy and support LUM Camp together!

Your contribution will help pay for a child’s transportation, room and board, food, camp activities, educational programs, and supplies. Sponsor one LUM camper for $300; two for $600, or $150 for ½ sponsorship. Any amount will support LUM Youth Programs & LUM Camp.