In this week’s edition of Wes’s Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, reflects on the recent Aspirational Peer Tour in Indianapolis. He highlights how much the LUM staff learned from visiting peer agencies—and how inspired and energized they felt returning to Lafayette. Please take 57 seconds to watch the video, and share it with friends. Additional details can be found in the article below.

This summer’s LUM Camp theme is The Wonders of Water, offering a fun and educational experience for 84 local children ages 8 to 10. From July 29 to August 1, LUM Campers will enjoy four days and three nights at a beautiful, overnight camp filled with discovery, creativity, and outdoor adventure. This year’s theme brings water into focus in exciting new ways.

LUM Campers will explore the water cycle and learn about enclosed ecosystems by building their own terrariums. LUM Camp director Marlena shared, “I made my first terrarium during a vacation and was amazed at how it sustained itself. I thought it would be the perfect way to teach LUM Campers about the water cycle. Plus, they’ll have something to take home and share with their families.”

LUM Camp will feature Professor Steve with his popular Wild Water Science Show. LUM Campers will also take part in a water-themed scavenger hunt, and a watercolor art session will introduce various techniques, including frozen watercolors and painting on wet paper. An exciting highlight is the WaterColor Battle—a playful competition combining tag and flag football, using water bottles filled with color and white flags. The winning cabin gets first dibs on s’mores.

In addition to the water-themed activities they will enjoy LUM Camp traditions like archery, boating, swimming, rock climbing, ziplining, morning campfires, nature hikes, and plenty of snacks. LUM Camp 2025 promises a week full of creativity, learning, and summer fun.

Earlier this spring, eight members of the Lafayette Urban Ministry team participated in a daylong Aspirational Peers Tour in Indianapolis, visiting neighborhood agencies that offer valuable insights relevant to Greater Lafayette. The tour included site visits to the following Indianapolis agencies:

This immersive day provided an opportunity to explore best practices, innovative service models, and operational strategies. Open discussions about shared challenges strengthened team cohesion and deepened commitment to the LUM mission. Previous peer tours have included Bloomington, Logansport, and Chicago, each contributing unique perspectives that enrich the LUM community-focused approach.

These annual Aspirational Peers Tours play a vital role in our growth by fostering connections, sparking new ideas, and informing our strategic planning. LUM thanks all of the Indianapolis agency leaders for their hospitality and openness in sharing their knowledge and experiences. Their partnership continues to inspire our dedication to serving our community with excellence.

LUM Camp is made possible through the generosity of individuals like you. Each year, Lafayette Urban Ministry offers this unique overnight camp experience to 84 children, asking families to contribute just $5 per child—while the actual cost is over $300 per camper. The difference is covered by caring donors who believe in investing in children.

Your gift helps provide:

• Transportation to and from camp
• Lodging, meals, and snacks
• Educational programs and outdoor activities
• All necessary supplies for a meaningful week
• A life-changing youth experience

Help send a local child to LUM Camp—four days packed with adventure, friendship, and new discoveries.

• $300 sponsors one LUM camper
• $600 sponsors two LUM campers
• $150 provides a half sponsorship
• Any amount makes LUM Youth Programs

Ready to make this the summer you’ll never forget? Jump into the LUM Summer of Service — where your time turns into impact and your efforts help shape a stronger community. Whether you’re into food, fun, kids, or care, LUM has a spot just for you!