Summertime Gladness – Big Impact on Youth
A Season of Growth & Fun through Youth Programs
During the summer months, Lafayette Urban Ministry focuses on providing enrichment and joy for local children. Research cautions that children may suffer from the “Summer Slide“—the tendency for students, especially those from low-income families, to lose some of the reading and mathematics competency gained during the previous school year. To combat this, LUM passionately supports the 5th Quarter Summer Learning Program and LUM Camp, intentionally creating learning opportunities throughout the summer to keep LUM students’ academic skills sharp.
LUM 5th Quarter Summer Learning Program
Each week day this summer, the 74 students enrolled in the LUM 5th Quarter Summer Learning Program engaged in a mix of learning, reading, and activities supplemented with nutritious meals and snacks. The curriculum ensured that the students kept pace academically with their peers.
The activities included trips to the park, local pool, and library; and guest presenters who sparked excitement in science, fitness, and reading. Special excursions included Prophetstown State Park, Imagination Station, and Wolf Park.
LUM Camp 2024
LUM Camp was the highlight of the summer for 83 local children. It offered lots of activities including nature hikes, boating, swimming, arts & crafts, movie night, wall climbing and zip-lining. Each day began with morning campfires and included nutritious meals, snacks & s’mores. With the exciting theme of Animals!, the LUM Campers learned about animal care and interact with animals in various educational sessions, experienced the world of service & support animals, and enjoyed an agility demonstration with trained dogs.
The Impact of Your Generosity
Your donations made it possible to continue these two important LUM youth programs. LUM students and campers made new friends and great memories while having a blast, learning new things, and discovering new things about themselves. These are truly life-changing experiences.
Supporting the LUM 5th Quarter Summer Learning Program and LUM Camp gives children a chance for academic success and a brighter future. If you wish to make a donation, please visit LUMserve.org/donate or click the button below.