LUM We’ve Got Talent – History-Making Event
An Unforgettable Evening of Talent & Generosity
Last Friday, LUM proudly hosted the sold-out We’ve Got Talent showcase. The evening featured an incredible lineup of amateur performers judged by esteemed local experts, with a packed audience responding with enthusiastic cheers, laughter, and standing ovations.
The top honor went to Sharon McKnight, along with Neelu Chawla, Noemi Ybarra, and Christine Schertz, who delivered a heartfelt and humorous tribute to State Representative Sheila Klinker. Sharon, who wrote the original song “Sheila Can’t Stay Home,” led the quartet in celebrating Klinker’s Lafayette-wide superpower of being everywhere at once — and the sold-out We’ve Got Talent audience heard it first. This world premiere will be remembered in LUM history as the song lives on.
Desmine Robinson was named runner-up for his powerful, original spoken-word poem entitled, What Will You Do With Your Freedom Of Speech?. Attendees also voted for the following Audience Choice Awards: Most Entertaining – Rob Ford, Most Inspiring – Onyx Uzomah, and Most Creative – The Lafayette Flute Choir.
Beyond the applause, the evening made a real impact—raising close to $20,000 for the LUM Good Samaritan Fund, which provides emergency financial assistance to local families in need. Missed the event? You can still support the cause. Click below to donate or view event photos (courtesy of Brent Russell Photography).
Why Support the LUM Good Samaritan Fund?
- 100% of Proceeds Help Local Families: Every dollar from “We’ve Got Talent” supports families with rent, utilities, and emergency needs.
- Direct Impact: Last year, LUM distributed more than $118,000 to help 1,169 families avoid eviction, keep their lights on, and access essential medications.
- Rising Housing Costs: With rents in Indiana rising by nearly 35% since 2019, many low-income families are struggling to make ends meet. A single unexpected expense can put them at risk of losing their homes.
- Helping Real People: The families LUM assists are part of our community—neighbors, church members, school aides, and local workers. Your support provides them with a lifeline during tough times.