In this edition of Wes's Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, shares the impact that volunteers have at LUM, and spotlights this month's Volunteer of the Month, Barb Tyner. Please take 59 seconds to watch the video and SHARE with others. See below to read more about Barb, and click the Volunteer at LUM button below to learn more about getting engaged at LUM today.

Barb Tyner is the newly elected president of the LUM Board of Directors, representing Federated Church. In addition to serving as board president, she regularly prepares and serves meals at the LUM Emergency Shelter, participates on a Hunger Hike fundraising team, and volunteers with LUM Jubilee Christmas and the LUM Community Thanksgiving Feast. Barb generously shares her leadership experience and human resources expertise, propelling LUM in numerous positive directions. Her exemplary leadership and encouragement for others to participate make Barb Tyner the well-deserved recipient of the LUM Volunteer of the Month honor.

When reflecting on her involvement with LUM, Barb shares that, “One of my favorite scripture verses is a well-known one, What does the Lord require of you? To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God (Micah 6:8). I see LUM live out this verse every day through its mission of meeting basic human needs and uplifting people.”

Barb encourages others to get involved with LUM adding that, “I see and hear stories of people who have been loved and cared for through LUM. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of this group?”

Join us in congratulating Barb Tyner for being selected the LUM Volunteer of the Month for January 2024. If you would like to volunteer with LUM, check out the LUM website or call or email the LUM volunteer coordinator, Terri Anderson (volunteer@LUMserve.org | 765-423-2691).

In the midst of winter's most perilous phase, LUM is on a vital mission to enhance the LUM Winter Warming Station, offering a secure haven for the unhoused. Excitingly, LUM extended service hours and will be moving to a larger facility, ensuring a warm and safe place for everyone. Support the LUM Winter Care Campaign to make a difference with new floor mats, coffee setup, bleach, toilet paper, staffing, and security cameras. Your contribution to the Winter Care Campaign creates a season of warmth, comfort, cleanliness, community, and care. Donate Now! Spread the Word! Volunteer!

Among the many stories of triumph and resilience, one particular LUM Immigration Clinic case unfolded with urgency and compassion. LUM received a desperate plea for help from a Ukrainian family living in the United States. This family needs to return to the Ukraine to complete their military service requirements to receive a family pension. The task was clear, but bureaucratic obstacles loomed large.

The LUM Immigration Clinic director, Christian Gallo, worked with a Ukrainian family to acquire the required documentation for filing an emergency travel authorization at the Ukrainian consulate in Chicago (pictured). However, as they arrived at the consulate for their required, in-person meeting in late December, they were met with an unexpected obstacle. Recent threats led to heightened security measures, and access to the consulate was restricted. Undeterred, they returned to the Ukrainian consulate for their second appointment earlier in January. Despite the setbacks, the LUM Immigration Clinic team has persisted — engaging with consulate officials and advocating passionately for the Ukrainian family. This entire legal process will take about a year; so, the story continues. The family shared that, "The legal and emotional support that LUM has given us is beyond what we expected and has helped in securing a good and safe life and future." 

This poignant example underscores the crucial role played by the LUM Immigration Clinic in facilitating reunifications and offering support in times of crisis. The tireless efforts of the LUM team exemplified the dedication to humanity that defines the core mission of the Immigration Clinic — making a positive impact on the lives of those in need.

The LUM After School Program provides safe, fun and enriching childcare for children in Kindergarten to 8th grade. The program serves up to 70 children from elementary & middle schools in Tippecanoe County for three hours each school-day afternoon, enabling their parents to finish their workday.

Three Ways YOU can help the LUM After School Program TODAY are as follows:

The LUM After School Program needs VOLUNTEERS from 2 to 6 p.m. every weekday. Make a positive impact on the life of a student through your presence, tutoring, interaction, and guidance. Please consider signing up TODAY. To begin, click HERE.