In this edition of Wes's Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, shares his excitement for LUM Jubilee Christmas and encourages you or your group to get involved. Please take 57 seconds to watch the video and SHARE it with friends. See below for more details on how to get engaged with Jubilee Christmas.

LUM is pleased to recognize Becca Lowrance as the Volunteer of the Month for November 2024. Becca’s dedication to serving others and fostering connections has had a lasting impact on those around her.

Becca and her family are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She has been a vital part of LUM for over a decade, serving as a host site coordinator for Jubilee Christmas for 10 years and as a LUM Board member for the past four years. Her leadership in coordinating multiple sites for Jubilee Christmas ensures that families receive a meaningful and welcoming holiday experience.

“LUM gives me the opportunity to do one of my most favorite things: serving others and finding connections that make people feel loved,” Becca shared. “The world needs people willing to step out of their comfort zone and not just tell others that God loves them, but show them—just as Jesus Christ did during His ministry. There is no better way to do that than through service.”

LUM is grateful for Becca’s continued commitment and the example she sets through her service. If you’re inspired by Becca’s story and want to volunteer with LUM, visit our website or email or call the LUM volunteer coordinator, Terri Anderson (volunteer@LUMserve.org | 765-423-2691). To read more about Becca, click HERE.

VOLUNTEER - More than 100 volunteer "elves" are needed to host a family and assist them in shopping for their children at Jubilee Christmas Part 2 & Part 3 on Saturday, December 14. Volunteers are also needed to staff the JC Donation Center (NOW - Dec. 10). Sign up TODAY spread some holiday cheer. SHARE this with others.

DONATE - Monetary donations are appreciated for Jubilee Christmas from businesses, organizations and individuals, and help make the program a success. Your cash gift to Jubilee Christmas may be given in honor of a friend or family member — in lieu of a holiday gift. LUM will send a Holiday Card sharing that a donation has been made by you to Jubilee Christmas in their name.



GIVE NEEDED ITEMS - Donations to Jubilee Christmas of new, unwrapped toys, clothing (newborn to 12-year-old), books, games, sports equipment, quilts/family blankets are welcome. Donations may be dropped off to the LUM Office & Greyhouse Coffee & Supply Co. (all locations) NOW-Monday, Dec. 9 and to Oakland Academy (11 Street entrance) Monday, Dec. 9 - Tuesday, Dec. 10. Click HERE for more details.

At a recent chapter meeting, James Klekovkin and Connor Ruhnow presented Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, with a $28,088.96 check on behalf of Purdue Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) for their Run the Ball fundraiser. FIJI revived its tradition of running a football from West Lafayette to Bloomington ahead of the Old Oaken Bucket football game, turning their rivalry into a philanthropic challenge between Purdue and IU. Purdue’s Lambda Iota chapter raised funds for LUM Homeless Services, while IU supported a Bloomington shelter.

Despite running on the coldest day of the year last Friday, the men completed the run, demonstrating their dedication. Purdue raised more than IU, providing crucial support as LUM celebrates the 40th Anniversary of Homeless Services. This generous gift is not only the largest single gift to LUM Homeless Services but also comes at a critical time, with winter increasing the demand for LUM’s services. The support from Purdue FIJI provides both a morale and financial boost, helping LUM continue tackling basic human needs and uplifting the people of Greater Lafayette.

Thanksgiving morning was marked by a remarkable display of community support as the LUM Turkey Trot 5K Run brought together 1,060 participants, setting new records for both attendance and fundraising. Participants—from competitive runners to families with strollers and dog walkers—came together despite the brisk weather, united by the shared goal of supporting LUM. This year’s event raised an impressive $42,243.97, which will directly benefit LUM’s vital programs supporting local families in need, including youth enrichment, food assistance, financial support, immigration services, tax assistance, and services for those experiencing homelessness.

LUM extends heartfelt thanks to all participants, donors, volunteers, and sponsors who helped make this event such a success. If you were unable to attend, donations are still welcome. LUM looks forward to another successful LUM Turkey Trot 5K Run next Thanksgiving.