LUM Volunteer of the Month – Kelly Fuchs
Spotlight on LUM Homeless Services Super Star
Meet Kelly – Superstar LUM Volunteer
Lafayette Urban Ministry is pleased to recognize Kelly K. Fuchs as the Volunteer of the Month for December. Kelly’s steady commitment, compassionate spirit, and leadership have made a meaningful impact on the LUM Emergency Shelter and the guests we support.
Kelly is a senior at Purdue University, majoring in Civil Engineering, and will graduate this spring. She will begin her professional career this summer as an Entry-Level Civil Engineer. Originally from Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, Kelly has made West Lafayette her home during her time at Purdue and has become an integral part of the LUM volunteer community.
For nearly two years, Kelly has volunteered regularly at the LUM Emergency Shelter, offering both her time and her heart to our guests. In addition to her individual service, Kelly serves as a leader with the Hands and Feet of Christ ministry at the St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Center at Purdue, where her passion for service is clearly evident.
“Volunteering at LUM has been incredibly rewarding,” Kelly shared. “Helping those in our community who are in need provides relief, consistency, and hope. Being part of something that truly makes a difference is what motivates me every time I serve.”
One of the most visible expressions of this partnership is the ministry’s commitment to monthly meals. The Hands and Feet of Christ ministry plans, cooks, and serves dinner for Emergency Shelter guests once a month—providing not only nourishment, but hospitality, dignity, and community. Kelly is especially proud of the positive impact this ministry has on the lives of LUM guests and speaks highly of the supportive relationship between the ministry and LUM staff.
“Kelly has been an exceptional volunteer and leader,” said a member of the LUM staff. “Her work with the Hands and Feet of Christ ministry continues a long-standing tradition of service, and her dedication embodies LUM’s mission as a lifeline of help & hope for our neighbors.”
Strengthening a 40-Year Partnership
Kelly’s selection as Volunteer of the Month is particularly meaningful, as St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Center was one of LUM’s earliest partners in homeless services, with a relationship that dates back more than 40 years. Through her leadership with Hands and Feet of Christ, Kelly is helping carry this legacy forward—ensuring that Purdue students continue to serve, learn, and stand in solidarity with neighbors in need.
Outside of volunteering and academics, Kelly enjoys cooking and baking, spending time with friends and family, and attending Purdue athletic events. Her parents and two younger sisters remain back home in New Jersey and continue to be a strong source of encouragement. LUM is deeply grateful for Kelly’s leadership, dedication, and compassionate service. Volunteers like Kelly make our work possible and strengthen our community in lasting ways. Please join us in thanking Kelly K. Fuchs, our December LUM Volunteer of the Month, for her outstanding commitment to serving our neighbors and supporting LUM as a lifeline of help & hope.
Be Inspired
Inspired by Kelly? Join her and hundreds of other volunteers at Lafayette Urban Ministry—help make a difference today. Please check out all of the opportunities on the LUM website at LUMserve.org/volunteer. If you have questions or want to learn more, feel free to reach out to the LUM volunteer coordinator at volunteer@LUMserve.org or 765-423-2691.