40th Anniversary of LUM Homeless Services
LUM invites you to join us as we commemorate the 40th Anniversary of LUM Homeless Services. This special event marks four decades of dedication to providing shelter, support, and life-changing assistance to individuals experiencing homelessness in Greater Lafayette. Here are the details:
- DATE/TIME – Wednesday, November 20, at 6:30 p.m.
- LOCATIONS – LUM Ray Ewry Center, 525 N 4th Street, Lafayette, IN
- Refreshments from Lafayette Brewing Company
- Tours at 6 p.m.
- Program Information Below
Since 1984, when LUM and St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Center established Lafayette’s first emergency shelter, LUM has led the way in helping those in need. Starting from a small facility on 8th Street, LUM has grown, with a new Ray Ewry Center built in 1995 at 525 N. 4th Street that houses both LUM youth programs and the emergency shelter. Through these years, LUM has consistently expanded services to meet the increasing demand in the community.
PROGRAM – 40th Anniversary Celebration
The 40th Anniversary of LUM Homeless Services will feature keynotes from four distinguished speakers and mission moments from three former shelter guests.
Featured Keynote Speakers
The Beginning
Joe Micon
LUM Executive Director Emeritus
The BEGINNING – Joe Micon will reflect on the emergency shelter’s beginnings in 1984, recalling the early days when Executive Director Jud Dolphin proposed purchasing cots and placing them in the attic to shelter individuals experiencing homelessness.
The Transformation
Mary Anderson
Former LUM Financial Assistance Director & Interim Executive Director
The TRANSFORMATION – Mary Anderson will discuss the growth and impact of LUM facilities, particularly the positive transformation brought by the construction of a dedicated building for the unhoused.
The Present
Wes Tillett
LUM Executive Director
The PRESENT – Wes Tillet will share insights into innovations such as overcoming the challenges of COVID-19 and pursuing grants to improve shelter safety and cleanliness, including the Healthy Shelter Initiative.
The Future
Mason McConnell Curry
LUM Homeless Services Director
The FUTURE – Mason McConnell Curry will discuss LUM’s role in the future and the future of homelessness, including trends from cities like Milwaukee that have successfully implemented proven approaches like Housing First and wrap-around services.
Mission Moments
The 40th Anniversary of LUM Homeless Services will include “Mission Moments” featuring inspiring stories from individuals who successfully transitioned from homelessness to stable housing and employment.
Patrick
PATRICK, a reformed addict, found sobriety and housing through LUM services, showing how dedication and resources can transform lives.
Timothy
TIMOTHY, who moved from homelessness to employment and housing, credits the LUM staff and Match Program for helping him achieve independence.
Kenneth
KENNETH, who recently received a promotion and secured his own apartment, shares how support and encouragement from LUM helped him gain stability.
MILESTONES – LUM Homeless Services – 1984-2024
Major milestones include the launch of case management in 2006, the creation of the New Opportunity Fund in 2010, and the establishment of the Winter Warming Station in 2015, ensuring a safe, warm place for anyone needing shelter during the coldest months. In 2021, LUM introduced the Healthy Shelter Initiative, improving health, cleanliness, and safety for guests. LUM expanded capacity to 48 guests, adding new outdoor lockers and upgraded the security system, bunk beds and bedding, floors, and office space.
Why Your Support Matters:
The LUM Emergency Shelter provides essential services 365 nights a year, offering guests a warm bed, meals, and connections to vital resources. Last year, LUM helped more than 818 unhoused individuals. As operational costs rise, LUM needs continued support to meet the growing need.
Your generosity has been instrumental in helping LUM reach this milestone, and LUM would be honored to have you at this celebration. LUM looks forward to celebrating with you!
Stay tuned for inspiring stories and exciting plans leading up to the anniversary celebration. Each newsletter will bring you closer to the heart of our mission and the impact we’ve made together. Thank you for your ongoing support. Let’s make the 40th anniversary celebration a memorable one!
