LUM Volunteer of the Month – Jacob Polinski
Jacob Polinski: A Legacy of Service and Leadership
Lafayette Urban Ministry proudly recognizes Jacob Polinski as the Volunteer of the Month for February 2025 for his outstanding dedication and service at the LUM Emergency Shelter.
A Purdue Senior Committed to Service
Originally from St. Charles, Illinois, Jacob is a senior at Purdue University, majoring in Data Analytics, Technologies, and Applications. His passion for service is evident in his leadership at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Center, where he helped expand Purdue student involvement with LUM through the Hands and Feet of Christ ministry.
“I actually started with LUM as a result of being a leader of the student service ministry at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Center, Hands and Feet of Christ (HFC). I wanted to create a ministry that worked directly with the unhoused in the Greater Lafayette area. Since we had a prior connection to LUM—cooking for the shelter and with many parishioners previously involved—it seemed like a natural fit to deepen our partnership on the student side.” – Jacob Polinski
Strengthening a 40-Year Partnership
Jacob’s selection for this honor is particularly meaningful, as St. Tom’s was one of LUM’s earliest partners in homeless services, dating back over 40 years. His work with HFC strengthens this legacy, ensuring that Purdue students continue to serve those in need.
Building Meaningful Relationships at LUM
Jacob finds the greatest fulfillment in the relationships he has formed at LUM, both with guests and staff.
“The most pride I get is from the relationships I have been able to form at LUM. So many people are gracious and appreciative of our presence. This really speaks to the compassion of the staff and the care with which they serve.”
His commitment to LUM is matched by his deep connection to Purdue and St. Tom’s, which he considers his “home away from home.”
“I have made so many close relationships there with staff, clergy, and other students. I greatly appreciate everyone who has supported me in the Hands and Feet of Christ ministry, both past and present, because I would not have been able to receive this honor without them.”
Encouraging Others to Serve
Jacob encourages others to volunteer, highlighting the profound experiences and lessons gained at the shelter.
“I would tell them to do it because you will be continually surprised by what happens there in the best way possible. The main thing I get out of the experience is understanding that the unhoused are people just like everyone else. It’s easy to ignore people on the side of the road, but a place like LUM grounds you in the recognition that they have feelings, dreams, and struggles just like us.”
One of Jacob’s most memorable moments was an emotional exchange with a shelter guest, a moment that reinforced the impact of LUM’s mission.
“A shelter guest once showed me a portion of a biblical Psalm and broke down crying. We embraced in a hug. I don’t know exactly what caused this moment, and I doubt I ever will, but I was so glad to be present for it.”
A Well-Rounded Leader
Beyond his studies and volunteerism, Jacob enjoys spending time with friends, reading, watching TV shows, and playing video games. His leadership, compassion, and commitment to serving others truly embody the spirit of LUM, St. Tom’s, and Purdue University. LUM is honored to recognize Jacob Polinski as the LUM Volunteer of the Month for February 2025.
If you are inspired by Jacob’s story and wish to volunteer with LUM, please check out all of the opportunities on the LUM website at LUMserve.org/volunteer. If you still have questions or need more information, please email or call the LUM volunteer coordinator (volunteer@LUMserve.org | 765-423-2691).