In this edition of Wes's Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM Executive Director, reflects on the 10th Anniversary of the LUM Immigration Clinic, celebrating the program’s success and the positive impact it has brought to the community. He extends heartfelt thanks to the many donors and volunteers who have supported the clinic over the years, making its work possible. Take just 59 seconds to watch the video, and don't forget to SHARE it with others! See below for more information about the LUM Immigration Clinic 10th Anniversary.

The LUM Immigration Clinic exists to help immigrants in Greater Lafayette successfully navigate the red tape of the US immigration system. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the LUM Immigration Clinic has provided hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of certified legal assistance annually to those who couldn't otherwise afford it. It's the only service of its kind in the area and has supported 1,237 clients over the past decade, offering life-changing, expert legal help recognized by the U.S. Department of Justice.

Thanks to generous donors, the LUM Immigration Clinic continues to provide essential legal support to immigrant neighbors, especially during times of crisis. This year, LUM will spend over $100,000 to assist them, covering everything from financial aid to staff salaries and legal resources. This funding comes entirely from kind-hearted supporters like you, who have kept the clinic running for the past 10 years. Would you consider donating to the LUM Immigration Clinic?

• $100 covers the consultation fee for 10 clients
• $375 supports one case for 6 months
• $750 supports one case for 12 months
• $1,904 covers all Immigration Clinic expenses for one week

Any amount makes a difference for LUM and our neighbors from other countries. Thank you for your support in celebrating this milestone anniversary!

Christian Gallo

Christian (pictured left) is the LUM Immigration Clinic director. Originally from Argentina, he now lives in Lafayette. Christian has three grown children. He holds a Masters in Law from Indiana University and a JD from Universidad Católica Argentina. Christian is fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian and has a background in coaching soccer and rugby, including with the Purdue Women’s Rugby Team.

Cristy Perez

Cristy (pictured right) is the LUM Immigration Clinic assistant director. Raised in New York City, she has dedicated her career to public service, working with vulnerable families and volunteering at shelters for the unhoused. Cristy is fluent in Spanish and English and enjoys spending time with her daughter, bowling, drawing, painting, and trying new restaurants, especially those offering fresh seafood and Dominican cuisine.

Christian, Cristy, and the dedicated team of volunteers (see below) provide expert legal advice to immigrants at little or no cost. Support the essential work of the LUM Immigration Clinic!

The LUM Immigration Clinic team includes talented volunteers, two of whom were recently named LUM Volunteers of the Month. They are Dr. Margaret Hass (pictured right) and Adelia Sorge (pictured left).

Dr. Margaret Hass

Margaret is a driving force in advocating for immigrant rights. A Lafayette native, Margaret earned her PhD in Cultural Studies from prestigious institutions in Italy, Germany, and India. She currently lectures in Purdue's Language and Cultural Exchange program and leads the Greater Lafayette Immigrant Allies as its president. Since 2016, Margaret has volunteered at the LUM Immigration Clinic, offering crucial support and guidance. Her accreditation as a representative in 2019 and upcoming attendance at the CLINIC Convening highlight her dedication and expertise.

Adelia Sorge

Adelia brings deep empathy and support to the LUM Immigration Clinic. Originally from Oakwood, Ohio, Adelia has Master’s degrees in Child Development and Counseling from Purdue University. After retiring as an academic advisor at Purdue Krannert School of Management, she began volunteering with LUM in 2015. Her background in psychology and counseling enhances her role at the LUM Immigration Clinic, where she provides a nurturing environment for immigrants. Adelia is also active in her church and cherishes her large family.

Dr. Margaret Hass & Adelia Sorge embody the spirit of volunteerism and make a significant impact through their dedicated service.

Is this the place where you help Ukrainians?

LUM serves people from all over the world, offering free or low-cost legal services. From protection to work permits and citizenship, LUM helps refugees and immigrants in need. The young Ukrainian’s case is ongoing, and LUM continues to provide support and peace of mind.

Many neighbors need the help and hope LUM offers. Will you pray for them and consider donating to the LUM Immigration Clinic today?

Lafayette Urban Ministry invites you to a special event THIS Monday, September 9, at noon. An Open House will be held at the LUM Protein Food Pantry to celebrate the expansion of operating hours to include Monday afternoons from 1 to 4 p.m. This event showcases LUM's commitment to meeting the community's needs by adapting to the growing demand for food access, especially on Mondays when other local pantries have reduced their hours or closed.

Hosted by LUM executive director, Wes Tillett, the open house will include refreshments for our guests and food pantry shoppers, a blessing from St. John’s Rector Bradley Pace, and tours before the pantry opens to shoppers at 1 p.m. Thanks to a generous donation from Arni's, their famous pizza will be served, adding a special touch to the occasion. Several distinguished guests will be in attendance, including State Senator Ron Alting, State Representatives Chris Campbell & Sheila Klinker, West Lafayette Mayor Erin Easter, Tippecanoe County Commissioner President Thomas Murtaugh, LUM executive director emeritus Joe Micon, and Wabash Trustee Angel Valentin.

This timing of the open house aligns with National Hunger Action Month and falls just two weeks before Hunger Hike, helping raise awareness about food insecurity. LUM would be thrilled to have you attend this special event. Thank you for your continued support of the LUM mission and programs. LUM looks forward to seeing you there!

Get ready for Hunger Hike 2024, a vibrant community event dedicated to raising awareness and fighting hunger both locally and globally. This year’s event is set to take place at Riehle Plaza in Lafayette, IN, on Sunday, September 22, at 1 p.m.

Hunger Hike is a fantastic opportunity for teams, groups, and families to come together in support of vital food programs. Whether you're part of a church group, student organization, civic club, or just rallying your loved ones, you can make an impact by joining our cause.

Assemble your Hunger Hike team and kick off your fundraising through our easy-to-use online platform or any method that suits you. LUM enthusiastically invites you to be a part of this meaningful effort to combat food insecurity and create a brighter future for those in need. Let’s unite and take steps toward ending hunger!

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