In this edition of Wes's Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, shares how he restores his focus on "why" we do what we do. Please take 59 seconds to watch the video and SHARE with others.

Thirty-five years ago, a talented local woman started volunteering with LUM participating in the Grow-A-Row program (1988 – 1991). Today she is one of the most impactful volunteer leaders at LUM. 

Deb J. Parent is that person and the current LUM Board of Directors president. She shared that, “LUM is the vehicle through which I can live my Christian faith in lifting up those in our community who are struggling with life’s burdens.” Throughout those years, Deb has been involved in LUM fundraising events, has volunteered with various programs, and for more than eight years was a case manager to shelter guests. She currently is a member of the Social Justice Team and Finance Committee. As a LUM leader, she has served on the Board of Directors since 2006, been a member of the Executive Council since 2016, and served as the Board president twice. Deb is excited about her work with LUM. She is most proud of, “Being part of a fantastic team of people coming from many different ecumenical practices and possessing a variety of unique and incredible gifts, but all sharing the same vision and drive to live out our faith by serving those in need.”

Please join us in celebrating Deb Parent, this Women in History Month. LUM is fortunate and grateful to have such a talented professional working with LUM as a volunteer, advocate and leader. If you wish to get more involved in LUM, click HERE.

The LUM After School Program is open for Spring Break. This week is Spring Break for the Lafayette School Corporation. Although a celebration for most local children, some families struggle with this weeklong break. For this reason, LUM offered full-day child care during the LSC spring break to the relief of some LUM families. Students were able to participate from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day this week. More than 20 students have taken advantage of the After School Program - Spring Break hours. This not only allows parents to work and not worry about their children this week, but also keeps the students engaged all day in a safe, caring and familiar environment. Students have had lots of fun time but also reading time and nutritious snacks & meals. Opening for spring break also gave the LUM staff members an opportunity to work more hours. To see more PHOTOS from Spring Break, click HERE.

LUM provides safe, fun and enriching childcare for children (Kindergarten to 8th grade) year round. The LUM After School Program serves up to 60 children from local elementary & middle schools for three hours each school-day afternoon, enabling their parents to finish their workday. 

Four Ways YOU can help the LUM students are as follows:

The LUM After School Program needs VOLUNTEERS from 2 to 6 p.m., every weekday. Volunteers are needed to tutor, read to students, give spelling tests and supervise the children. Please consider signing up TODAY. To begin, click HERE.

Join us for We've Got Talent -- a live show featuring local acts ranging from singing, dancing, dramatic readings, and other genres. The line up of talent will be announced next week.

There will be refreshments & other surprises at the event, but the best part is that 100% of the proceeds go to the LUM Good Samaritan Fund, an emergency financial assistance fund that supports local families & individuals in need. Mark your calendars and get your We've Got Talent tickets today.

If you aren’t able to attend We've Got Talent but wish to make a donation to the LUM Good Samaritan Fund — click the button below. If you wish to be the Corporate Sponsor, email or call (765-423-2691 | lum@LUMserve.org).