In this week’s edition of Wes’s Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM Executive Director, shares his excitement for the Run the Ball event, which capitalizes on the Purdue-IU rivalry to raise funds for homeless services at LUM (Greater Lafayette) and in Bloomington. Please take just 59 seconds to watch the video and SHARE it with others!

Why It Matters

The LUM Emergency Shelter operates 365 nights a year, providing a safe place, meals, and access to services. Last year, LUM assisted more than 818 individuals. Your generosity has been instrumental in helping LUM reach this milestone, and LUM would be honored to have you at this celebration. Join LUM on November 20 to honor the past 40 years of service and help shape the future of its mission. No RSVP needed. For event details, click the button below. LUM looks forward to celebrating with you.

Providing Warmth, Cleanliness, and Care

As the winter season approaches, Lafayette Urban Ministry is stepping up efforts to improve the LUM Winter Warming Station, ensuring a safe, warm space for those experiencing homelessness. LUM is excited to start the winter with expanded service hours and a larger facility, ensuring everyone has a secure place to stay through the cold nights. To make this possible, LUM is launching the Winter Care Campaign, focusing on meeting the essential needs of our unhoused guests. Your support is key to making the available LUM Winter Warming Station from November 15 through April. Whether through a donation, meals or volunteering, here’s how your support will make a difference:

Provide Meals

Prepare bagged meals and drop them off—no need to serve. Perfect activity for youth groups, families, companies, churches, and organizations. Bagged meals offer guests flexibility, dignity, and easy access to a nutritious meal.

Comfort with Floor Mats  

Provide insulated sleeping surfaces for a warmer, more comfortable night’s rest.

Cleaning & Disinfecting Supplies

Help maintain a clean, hygienic shelter by providing bleach and disinfectant wipes, promoting health and well-being.

Basic Necessities  

Your contribution ensures a steady supply of toilet paper and personal hygiene items, offering comfort and dignity to everyone in our care.

Staffing for Personalized Care  

Support our staff in offering individualized attention and assistance to each guest.

Warmth & Comfort with Coffee  

Create a cozy space with hot beverages, offering warmth and a sense of community.

Your generosity fuels these essential services and ensures that our guests have a safe and supportive place to weather the winter.

Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) is reviving its tradition of running a football from West Lafayette to Bloomington ahead of the annual Old Oaken Bucket football game between Purdue and Indiana Universities. This year, the Purdue and IU FIJI chapters have teamed up to make the Run the Ball event their largest philanthropy effort yet, with each chapter setting a goal to raise $100,000 for their selected nonprofit.

The Lambda Iota chapter at Purdue is raising funds for Lafayette Urban Ministry, in support of the critical services LUM provides for individuals experiencing homelessness in Greater Lafayette. The IU chapter is raising funds for a shelter in Bloomington. Both chapters are using this event as an opportunity not only to celebrate their school rivalry but also to engage in friendly competition to see who can raise more funds—Purdue or IU. While LUM urges supporters to select "Purdue," we appreciate any contributions made to support the Run the Ball event. Here are a few ways you can contribute:

1. Online Donation: For more information and to donate, click HERE
2. Corporate Sponsorship: If your company or organization is interested in being an event sponsor, check out the exclusive perks & benefits available, click HERE
3. Spread the Word: Sharing our event with others can have a significant impact

Through this collaboration, both FIJI chapters are using the spirit of competition to make a meaningful impact beyond the football game and bring positive change to their communities.

Join the fun at the LUM Turkey Trot 5K Run on Thursday, November 28. Make it a new family tradition—throw on a silly hat or costume and be part of the most exciting 5K of the year. This Thanksgiving morning, create unforgettable memories with family and friends while supporting a great cause. 

Don’t miss out—sign up for the LUM Turkey Trot 5K Run TODAY. All proceeds go to help local individuals, families, and children through LUM programs and services.