Three Events Making a Community Impact
The Past – Run the Ball 2025 Supports LUM
Purdue FIJI Run the Ball Event Supports LUM Members of the Purdue FIJI fraternity recently invited Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, to their chapter dinner to present the ceremonial football and a check for $31,168.26 raised through Run the Ball 2025. For the second year in a row, FIJI brothers ran a football from West Lafayette to Bloomington ahead of the annual Old Oaken Bucket rivalry game between Purdue University and Indiana University, raising funds for homeless services. In just two years, the event has generated nearly $60,000 for LUM—enough to provide approximately 3,000 nights of shelter for neighbors experiencing homelessness. More PHOTOS.
The Present – Row-A-Thon Supports LUM Families
Members of the Purdue Crew Club recently held their annual Row-A-Thon to raise funds for the LUM Good Samaritan Fund. Nearly 130 students from Purdue University took four-hour shifts on indoor rowing machines, rowing thousands of meters throughout the day. Funds raised from the event will be split 50/50 between LUM and Purdue Crew. LUM Good Samaritan Fund provides emergency financial assistance for neighbors in need, helping with rent, utility bills, and prescription medications. LUM is grateful to the Purdue Crew team for their energy, teamwork, and continued commitment to supporting the Greater Lafayette community. More PHOTOS.
The Future – A Movement to End Homelessness
More than 150 community members attended the Beyond the Bridge – Community Open Forum, an evening focused on learning, collaboration, and addressing homelessness locally. The program featured presentations followed by a 45-minute Q&A with community leaders. Panelists included State Representative Chris Campbell, State Senator Spencer Deery, West Lafayette Mayor Erin Easter, Tippecanoe County Sheriff Robert Goldsmith, Jennifer Layton (LTHC Homeless Services), Jennifer Million (United Way of Greater Lafayette), Marie Morse (Homestead Resources), and Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski. The event also generated momentum for the Beyond the Bridge Pledge, now with 82 signatures. Slides and photos are available online, with video coming soon. Stay tuned for more opportunities to get engaged. More PHOTOS.