In this edition of Wes’s Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, shares a powerful new video produced by Cole Crider that gives a closer look at the LUM Protein Food Pantry and its impact on our community. Please take just a couple of minutes to watch—and consider sharing it with your friends and colleagues to help raise awareness about this vital work.

LUM proudly recognizes Marie Edmondson as Volunteer of the Month for July. A longtime supporter and LUM Camp counselor of nearly 15 years, Marie brings humor, heart, and purpose to everything she does.

A Lafayette native raised in Millhousen, Marie has balanced work, school, and life as a single mom of three. Her career has spanned manufacturing, banking, administrative support, pharmacy, paralegal work, and client services—all while keeping her dream of teaching alive.

Marie’s connection to LUM is deeply personal. As a parent who once received support, she sent her children to LUM Camp—they became campers, then junior counselors, then counselors themselves. Her oldest daughter now serves as the LUM Camp director. For Marie, volunteering at LUM Camp is a way to pay it forward: “It’s not just me giving—it’s the joy, laughter, and memories we create together.”

Be Inspired!

To volunteer with LUM, visit LUMserve.org/volunteer or contact us at volunteer@LUMserve.org | 765‑423‑2691. To read Marie’s full story, click HERE.

Local Starbucks' store managers, along with the district manager, recently visited LUM to present a $1,000 donation in support of LUM Homeless Services. This generous gift was both a meaningful and unexpected surprise—and part of Starbucks’ ongoing commitment to making a difference in the communities they serve. The donation comes from The Starbucks Foundation Neighborhood Grants program, which allows local Starbucks employees to nominate local nonprofits for funding—like LUM. Starbucks has long been one of LUM’s most valued community partners. As the founding partner of the LUM Food Rescue Initiative, Starbucks continues to donate surplus food to LUM three times each week—benefiting our Protein Food Pantry, Emergency Shelter, and Youth Programs.  

During the visit, the Starbucks managers toured the LUM Emergency Shelter and presented the donation and a certificate to LUM leadership. In turn, LUM staff took the opportunity to recognize one of their own—Ernesto Muñoz-Pickett, a local Starbucks manager and dedicated LUM volunteer. Ernesto has served more than 400 hours at the LUM Emergency Shelter. LUM surprised him with a certificate of appreciation, sparking a spontaneous and heartfelt celebration by his Starbucks colleagues, many of whom were previously unaware—but not surprised—by his extraordinary commitment. {Pictured L to R: Mason McConnell Curry, LUM Homeless Services director; Wes Tillett, LUM executive director; and Ernesto Muñoz-Pickett.}

LUM extends our sincere gratitude to The Starbucks Foundation, our local Starbucks partners, and especially to Ernesto for their generous support and ongoing partnership. If you get the chance, please stop by a local Starbucks and thank them for supporting LUM and our community. Read more - click HERE.

Grace United Methodist Church recently hosted a festive “Christmas in July” event to raise awareness and support for LUM Jubilee Christmas. This annual celebration brings together members of the congregation to recommit to hosting local families in December as part of LUM Jubilee Christmas.

The event featured live entertainment, a silent auction, refreshments, and a joyful atmosphere—embracing the spirit of Christmas in the middle of summer. Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, attended the event and expressed his gratitude for the continued their support and deep commitment to LUM’s mission.

Special thanks to Pastor Jennifer Lewis and Sarah Kay of Grace United Methodist Church for their leadership and dedication to LUM Jubilee Christmas. As the church’s Jubilee Christmas coordinator, Sarah organized this creative event and will lead their team now through December.

If you would like to join in the spirit of “Christmas in July,” please consider making a donation or signing up to volunteer on LUM Jubilee Christmas Day—Saturday, December 13.