In this special edition of Wes's Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, shares a 1-minute & 45-second video montage capturing the energy, joy, and unforgettable moments from an entire week at LUM Camp—produced by the team at Hanging Rock Christian Camp, this year’s host site. The video offers a glimpse into the variety of activities and meaningful experiences that made the week so impactful for both LUM Camper and staff. Take a moment to watch—and feel free to share it with others. Thank you to everyone who donated or sponsored a LUM Camper this year. Your support made this possible.

At Lafayette Urban Ministry, the LUM team believes in the power of neighbors helping neighbors—one act of service at a time. And in 2025, thanks to people like you, that power is making a real difference. From the food pantry to the shelter, youth programs to immigration services, LUM staff and volunteers walk alongside individuals and families in need every day. See the impressive numbers below from the first half of this year that reflect this growing impact.

More families are turning to LUM for food, shelter, eviction support, childcare, and hope. LUM is rising to meet the need—but cannot do it alone.

Your support matters. By volunteering, attending events, or making a donation, you help transform lives and strengthen the community. A gift to LUM is more than a donation—it’s an investment in the health and stability of Greater Lafayette. Join LUM in this important work. If you’re able, please give generously. Together, a difference can be made. Thank you. {To view the entire report, click the link below.}

This summer, the LUM 5th Quarter Summer Learning Program helped 74 students in Pre-K through 7th grade avoid summer learning loss—also known as the “summer slide.” The program combined academics in reading, math, and science with hands-on enrichment, recreation, and field trips.

A certified Reading Specialist used the CORE Phonics Survey to assess literacy skills. Of the 74 students, 46 were tested in the first week. Twenty-eight met or exceeded grade-level benchmarks. The remaining 18 received targeted instruction in skills like blends, CVC words, R-controlled vowels, and multisyllabic decoding. Each child received 30 minutes of daily small-group support, totaling up to 12 hours of phonics instruction. Sixteen students completed both pre- and post-assessments, some improving in more than one category, with outstanding results:

• 12 students advanced from red (intensive) to yellow (strategic)
• 13 students moved from yellow (strategic) to green (benchmark)
• 3 students progressed from red (intensive) directly to green (benchmark)

Together, collectively they gained 31 “steps of growth.” LUM 5th Quarter Summer Learning Program will expand early assessment in 2026 to deepen impact. The program’s success reflects the dedication of skilled educators and targeted instruction preparing students for a confident return to school this week. Yesterday, some of them returned to the LUM After School Program.

Each summer, LUM Camp is a highlight for local children, blending fun, learning, and personal growth. This year, 70 campers (ages 8–10) enjoyed adventures like campfires, archery, canoeing, swimming, wall climbing, and ziplining—many for the first time.

The 2025 theme, the Wonders of Water, featured creative and educational activities including the Wild Water Science Show with Professor Steve and a Watershed Simulation led by Dr. Takhellambam Bijoy (Purdue Natural Resources and Environmental Science) and his team. Campers also explored watercolor art, joined a water-themed scavenger hunt, played Watercolor Battle, and created a mini-terrarium to take home and share with their families (pictured).

LUM Camp Friend Night brought together board members, donors, and supporters to celebrate with campers, reinforcing the community spirit at the heart of the LUM Mission.

LUM is grateful to all who make this impactful week possible—helping children discover new passions, build confidence, and feel seen and valued.

To view more LUM Camp PHOTOS and share in the memories, click HERE.