In this week’s edition of Wes's Weekly Wrap-Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, explores how mercy and justice connect to the LUM Social Justice Team’s recent visit to the Indiana Statehouse, where they advocated for legislation supporting local families. Take just 57 seconds to watch the video, and don’t forget to SHARE it with your friends. See below for more information about their trip.

LUM had the pleasure of hosting the Purdue University Religious Leaders (URL) for their regular meeting last week—and it was a fantastic time. The afternoon kicked off with a delicious lunch at the LUM Ray Ewry Center, followed by a warm welcome from Wes Tillett, LUM executive director. After lunch, Wes shared an engaging overview of LUM programs and highlighted the many ways URL members and their communities can make a real impact through volunteering.

With winter still in full swing and spring just around the corner, Wes encouraged everyone to get involved, whether by lending a hand at the LUM Protein Food Pantry, Emergency Shelter, and After School Program, or as a counselor at LUM Camp. The partnership between LUM and Purdue’s University Religious Leaders remains strong, proving once again that collaboration makes a difference.

Want to be part of something meaningful?

Whether you’re an individual or a group, there’s a place for you at LUM. Visit our website to explore volunteer opportunities and sign up today—just click HERE.

The Purdue University Religious Leaders (URL) brings together religious leaders who are passionate about serving Purdue University students on the West Lafayette campus.

LUM is grateful for the Gamma Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. at Purdue, who recently participated in a LUM Deep Cleaning Service Day.

Their members deep cleaned and disinfected the LUM Emergency Shelter, tackling dust, scrubbing hard-to-reach areas, and ensuring a safe, sanitary space. They also helped with yardwork and cleaning at the LUM Youth Programs facilities, creating a brighter environment for our students.

LUM Deep Cleaning Service Days go beyond routine maintenance, and LUM appreciates dedicated volunteers like the Gamma Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. for making a difference. Thank you, Alpha Phi Alpha. {Pictured L to R: Miles Talib, social media chair; Victor Chukwuocha, treasurer; Richard Jackson, parliamentarian; and Charles Dickerson IV, risk management chair.}

Want to help?

Visit our website to explore volunteer opportunities and sign up for LUM Deep Cleaning Service Days today.

Founded in 1906, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is the oldest predominantly African American Greek-letter organization, guided by the motto: “First of all, servants of all, we shall transcend all.” Since 1948, the Gamma Rho Chapter has upheld this legacy at Purdue, promoting scholarship, fellowship, and service.

LUM is grateful for the students, teachers, and families of Lafayette Catholic Schools for their generosity during Catholic Schools Week. As part of their commitment to community service, students from St. Mary & St. Lawrence Elementary Schools and St. Boniface School collected essential personal care items throughout January to support individuals in need.

Each grade level (K-12) focused on gathering specific items, ensuring a well-rounded collection of supplies. These donations were sorted, counted and delivered to LUM by Central Catholic Jr. & Sr. High School students.

Additionally, the students at St. Francis Early Learning Academy (ages 3-5) embraced the spirit of giving by assembling bagged meals for the LUM Winter Warming Station, further reinforcing the values of compassion and service at the heart of Catholic Schools Week. They provide more than 80 meals in bags that were brightly decorated by the preschool students (pictured).

Sincere thanks to the Lafayette Catholic Schools students, teachers and families for their generosity, kindness, and commitment to serving the community. This support makes a difference, and LUM is encouraged by their willingness to step up whenever there is a need. Thank you for being a shining example of faith in action. If you or your group ever wish to organize a collection drive or provide meals, LUM welcomes your support and will gladly provide guidance on the most needed items.

Last week, the LUM Social Justice Team, along with Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, visited the Indiana Statehouse to advocate for legislation that supports low-income families and individuals in our community. The team met with state representatives and legislators who represent our neighbors in Tippecanoe County, urging them to take action on critical issues, including:

• Newborn Tax Credit – Advocating for financial relief to support families with newborns.
• Predatory Loans – Fighting against exploitative lending practices that trap low-income families in cycles of debt.
• Criminalization of Homelessness – Opposing policies that penalize individuals experiencing homelessness rather than providing support and solutions.

These legislative efforts align with the LUM mission to uplift and advocate for our neighbors in need. Stay tuned for more ways you can take action and make your voice heard in the fight for social justice and economic equity. Together, we can create lasting change for families who need our support the most.

Pictured L to R: Chris Mitchem, VanceMitchem Public Affairs; Josh Propoky, LUM program director; Deb Parent, LUM Board & Social Justice Team member; Wes Tillett; and Trevor Vance, VanceMitchem Public Affairs.

Financial Assistance Program

Food Pantries & Rescue

Homeless Services

Youth Programs

Tax Assistance Program