FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: DATE: July 15, 2022
DAVID LASATER
765-742-9078 or david@inspiringgreater.org
The Community Foundation of Greater Lafayette
The Community Foundation of Greater Lafayette announced a new gift matching opportunity to support Lafayette Urban Ministry’s (LUM) 5th Quarter Summer Learning Program on July 15, 2022. Richard C. and Betty M. Nelson have generously offered to match dollar-for-dollar, gifts of $1,000 or greater for an endowment named in honor of the Nelsons. Gifts of $10,000 or greater qualify for a named endowment, i.e., Joan and James Smith Endowment for the 5th Quarter Summer Learning Program at Lafayette Urban Ministry. Gifts will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until matching funds are accounted for or, through July 15, 2023, whichever comes first.
The Nelsons said, “For the two of us, a favorite Biblical quote explains very well why we created an endowment to support the children of LUM: ‘We drink from wells we did not dig; we are warmed by fires we did not kindle.’ (Deut. 6.11) Even though Dick grew up poor and sixth of eight children, and Betty lost her father, the breadwinner of the family, at a young age, in our time on this earth, we both received vast unearned advantages. Others enriched and encouraged us, and shaped our young lives. We are thankful that now we can share some of our assets to benefit children of future generations.”
LUM’s 5th Quarter Summer Learning Program is dedicated to closing the academic achievement gap for students who are struggling, and providing enrichment for students who are doing well for ages pre-kindergarten through 6th grade. The program is run by LUM’s Youth Program Director, trained personnel, and screened volunteer staff. Students participate in active learning activities based on Indiana academic standards in addition to fun crafts, recreation, and educational field trips. Students also receive free lunch and nutritional snacks while participating in the program.
LUM’s director, Wes Tillett said, “The 5th Quarter Summer Learning program is a game-changer. Rather than allowing summer to interrupt their development, children in the 5th Quarter Summer Learning Program are actively engaged all summer. Children benefit academically, socially, and psychologically. The Nelson’s endowment, and the gifts they will inspire, is such a blessing and will ensure that many children in Greater Lafayette will continue to have this life-enhancing, education-advancing resource available to them.”
The Community Foundation of Greater Lafayette, established in 1970, serves the Tippecanoe County area. Its mission is to inspire, nurture, and practice philanthropy, stewardship, and leadership in the communities served.
Contact Candy Silver with The Foundation at candy@inspiringgreater.org or 765-742-9078 regarding the types of gifts that are eligible for this matching program.
