In this edition of Wes's Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, shares poverty "myth busters." This is the first in a series that is inspired by a recent LUM team reading & discussion of Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond. Please take 59 seconds to watch the video and SHARE with others.

Last week, LUM hosted the routine gathering of the University Religious Leaders at Purdue. URL comprises religious leaders dedicated to serving Purdue students in West Lafayette. Following a casual lunch at the LUM Ray Ewry Center, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, welcomed the leaders; and Pablo Malavenda, LUM executive program director, provided an overview of volunteer opportunities within Lafayette Urban Ministry (pictured). He shared the LUM Summer of Service initiative and emphasized the importance of involvement during the summer months for both students and community members affiliated with their respective churches and temples. Pablo spotlighted volunteer avenues with LUM Camp, Protein Food Pantry (soon open on Mondays), Emergency Shelter, and 5th Quarter Summer Learning Program. The strong partnership between LUM and the University Religious Leaders at Purdue was reaffirmed during this gathering, underscoring the value of collaboration.

If you or your group wishes to volunteer during the LUM Summer of Service, go to our website to explore and sign up online—click HERE. There is something for everyone.

Amidst the tranquil surroundings of Camp Tecumseh, the LUM staff members convened for their annual Staff Retreat. Guided by the skilled facilitators of Camp Tecumseh, the team engaged in a series of team building and self-discovery activities. As staff members navigated through challenges and supported one another, bonds were forged, fostering a sense of unity and purpose that would resonate long after the retreat's conclusion.

Complementing the hands-on teambuilding exercises was a master class in fundraising & development led by the esteemed staff of the Community Foundation of Greater Lafayette. This session equipped the LUM team with invaluable skills and strategic insights, empowering them to all understand their role in development activities. {Pictured above are the LUM team with the CFGL staff members.}

With renewed energy and a shared commitment to their mission, the LUM team emerged from the retreat revitalized and ready to embark on the next chapter of their journey, united in their dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of those they serve. Special thanks to the Community Foundation team and the Camp Tecumseh crew for making it a meaningful day.

Lafayette Urban Ministry expresses deep gratitude to the Community Foundation of Greater Lafayette for their recent grant award of $14,082. This generous funding has been instrumental in crucial upgrades to our facilities, including installing a new roof on one of the LUM Isaiah 32 Project rental houses (pictured) and revitalizing the LUM Office parking lot with fresh sealant and lines. These enhancements are vital for maintaining the safety and overall condition of our facilities.

LUM extends sincere thanks to the Community Foundation of Greater Lafayette for their ongoing support of the LUM mission.

Hey, want to make this summer count? Get ready for your LUM Summer of Service! LUM is looking for volunteers to lend a hand with everything from food pantries to youth programs, emergency shelter, and more.

Joining the LUM Summer of Service means you get to make a real difference in your community, tackling immediate needs and seeing the impact of your efforts firsthand. So, what are you waiting for? Find something that sparks your interest and maybe even convince a friend or two to join you.

LUM has opportunities galore — whether it's helping out at the shelter, providing meals, assisting with food pantries, pitching in at the child care program, or being a counselor at LUM Camp. Plus, we're on the lookout for folks to join our Food Rescue Initiative.

Ready to dive in? Head to LUMserve.org/volunteer or shoot an email or call over to Terri Anderson, the awesome LUM volunteer coordinator (volunteer@LUMserve.org | 765-423-2691). Let's make this summer one to remember!

Election Day is fast approaching on Tuesday, May 7, but early voting is available now.