In this edition of Wes's Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, reflects on the end of the winter season and the success of the LUM Winter Warming Station, Tax Assistance Program, and more. Please take 59 seconds to watch the video and SHARE with others. See below for more information on LUM winter programs and events.

Bob Shockey has volunteered with LUM for more than five years and is the current vice president of the LUM Board of Directors, representing Purdue Christian Campus House, where his son, Dave, is the Pastor of Mobilization & Director of Prayer. In addition to serving as a member of the Board of Directors and the Executive Council, he is a member of the Development Committee, volunteers at the LUM Emergency Shelter, and was the chair of the Buildings & Grounds Committee. His wife, Diane, also volunteers with LUM with the Financial Assistance Program. Bob generously shares his leadership experience and development expertise, guiding LUM to a better future. His outstanding leadership qualities, combined with his good humor and encouragement for others to engage, have rightfully earned him the well-deserved honor of being selected as the LUM Volunteer of the Month for April. 

Let's extend our heartfelt congratulations to Bob Shockey for his well-deserved recognition as the LUM Volunteer of the Month for April 2024. If you're inspired by Bob's story and wish to join the LUM family as a volunteer, check out the LUM website or call or email the LUM volunteer coordinator, Terri Anderson (volunteer@LUMserve.org | 765-423-2691).

Notable initiatives during the winter season included the LUM Winter Warming Station, Tax Assistance Program, and Healthy Shelter Initiative. Each of these plays a vital role in addressing the community's needs.

This year, LUM expanded the Tax Assistance Program to serve more clients with more options to sign up. The result was more tax returns were filed, more refunds claimed, and no one was turned away. The impact speaks volumes.

This LUM assistance program benefits our neighbors by filing their tax returns for FREE and also boosts the local economy, since it is likely that a majority of the $801,805 total refunds generated will be spent locally.

LUM is proud of the LUM Tax Assistance Program team this year for making it possible to expand this vital service. LUM is grateful for the volunteers and the staff members, Dan Guckien, Araceli Martinez, and Connie Decker. This year’s volunteers (some are pictured above) were as follows: Amanda Bettag, Jessica Day, Elizabeth Garcilazo, Ai Ai Lau, Joan Marshall, Patti O’Callaghan, Deb Parent, Rob Patrick, Paul Preckel, Carol Robicheaux, Andrea Schmidt, Tricia Sembroski, Ron Smith, Mike Tripodi, Stephanie Vanderkar, and Janet Winters.

From November 15 to April 15, the LUM Winter Warming Station was open nightly from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m., offering a safe and warm space for individuals in need. Guests are provided with essentials such as coffee, water, and a bagged meal for the morning. This winter, the station accommodated over 371 individuals for a total of more than 3,261 bed-nights. Furthermore, we've relocated the LUM Winter Warming Station to the same facility as the Emergency Shelter, fostering enhanced collaboration among staff and ensuring a safer environment for volunteers, staff, and guests.

In its third year, the Healthy Shelter Initiative prioritized safety and security, which entailed the installation of a new exterior security camera system and a complete renovation of the office space. The redesigned office layout provides staff with a clearer view of the facility, enhancing monitoring capabilities during overnight operations. Looking ahead, LUM is preparing for additional upgrades, such as installing more durable, bug-resistant flooring that's simpler to clean. Since its inception in 2021, this initiative has introduced new beds & mattresses, outdoor lockers, an upgraded elevator, zero food waste program, and easier-to-clean tables and chairs.

The success of LUM Homeless Services is due to the dedication of the LUM homeless services staff members (pictured above) and volunteers, and the generosity of families, groups, businesses, and churches who donate and provided meals.

As a part of National Volunteer Month, Terri Anderson, LUM volunteer coordinator, and Wes Tillett, LUM executive director (pictured), hosted the LUM Volunteer Appreciation Reception. It was a tribute to the devoted LUM volunteers. This special event provided an opportunity for LUM staff and board members to express personal gratitude to each volunteer in attendance with remarks, awards, and refreshments.

LUM relies immensely on the dedication and generosity of thousands of volunteers who contribute their time and expertise to address basic human needs and uplift the people of Greater Lafayette. These volunteers perform extraordinary acts of service, supporting every LUM program and event throughout the year. Special recognition was given to the volunteers who served the most hours. Leading the way are Rob & Nina Morgan, who volunteered 1,004 hours; and Larry Guentert, who volunteered 335 hours. There were also eight volunteers who served more than 200 hours, including Carol Hahm, Theresa & Jeff Landis, Kim Reneau, Tricia Sembroski, John & Barb Sperry, and Jean Tyner.

Please join us in thanking and honoring all of the LUM volunteers who served this past year. To view the entire list of volunteers with 100+ hours, click HERE.