Philanthropy isn’t just about dollars, it’s about dedication. And when we talk about time as a form of philanthropy, we’re talking about something profoundly personal: showing up, again and again, to offer your presence, your energy, and your heart. 

Our volunteers span generations, backgrounds, and belief systems, but they share one common truth: they care deeply about their community. For this first installment in our three-part series on local philanthropy, we sat down with three volunteers across three decades of life to explore what motivates them to give their time, and why keeping that time close to home matters most. 

One of Ann’s most powerful memories came not while volunteering, but while attending an LTHC storytelling event at the Tippecanoe Arts Federation. A young man shared his story of addiction and homelessness, and afterward, Ann found herself speaking to his father. That moment, the unexpected grief of a parent, the realization that homelessness ripples beyond the individual, left a lasting mark. 

“I’ve learned how generous the Lafayette community is. It feels like family here.” 

Her advice to new volunteers is simple: come more than once. 

For Michele, it all started with a question from her young son: Can we help? 

That simple, sincere request launched a family tradition of giving time, energy, and heart to LTHC. Michele has now spent over eight years volunteering in the kitchen, serving meals, supporting fundraising efforts, and sponsoring families during the holidays. What began as a lesson in kindness for her son became a calling of her own. 

“Every time I volunteer, I feel like I’m a small part of the solution. It’s humbling and humanizing; it reminds me that everyone deserves kindness, dignity, and support.” 

Michele’s favorite moments are the ones where guests remember her, call her by name, share a smile, start a conversation. Those small connections, she says, are everything. 

“LTHC offers more than food or shelter. They provide hope. They give people what they need to get back on their feet. It’s a safe place.” 

Her advice to new volunteers? 

“Packing those boxes is my favorite part. Knowing someone is getting out of homelessness and into a stable home...that’s everything.” 

She also reflects on how much volunteering has changed her perspective. 

“People don’t realize how dehumanized the homeless population is. The types of donations we get sometimes show that people forget these are full human beings. They have families, stories, and favorite things.” 

One moment she’ll never forget? When a request went out for hand warmers during a brutally cold week. 

“I came in a few days later and was blown away. We had so many. The community stepped up in a huge way.” 

Her advice? 

Volunteering is more than a checklist task, it’s an act of solidarity. And while national movements and major foundations play their part, the real work of ending homelessness in Tippecanoe County requires real people who care deeply about this place, right now. 

Because when you give your time here, you’re supporting our neighbors. Our seniors. Our veterans. Our families. Our future. 

We often hear, “I wish I could do more.” But if you’ve ever given an hour, a morning, a day: you have. 

You’ve looked fear in the face and said, “I see you.” You’ve helped restore dignity to someone who felt forgotten. And you’ve shown what makes Greater Lafayette truly great: its people. 

Stay tuned for the next edition in our series, where we’ll explore Talent Philanthropy; and how local professionals are using their skills to strengthen the mission. Got time to give? We’ll help you find the right fit. 

Not everyone can carve out time to volunteer. And that’s okay.

But if you still feel pulled to help, consider this: the toothbrush someone forgot to pack. The deodorant they ran out of. The shampoo bottle that's almost empty. These simple, everyday items carry weight here.

At LTHC, we serve hundreds of guests every day; and with every face comes a set of basic, human needs. Clean socks. A warm blanket. Hygiene items that restore dignity. Small comforts that mean the world to someone just trying to get through the day.

When you donate items from our Guest Services needs list, you're doing more than stocking shelves. You're telling someone: “You deserve care.” You're turning compassion into action no matter your schedule.

We update our list regularly based on immediate needs, but common staples include:

Whether it’s a single package or a group collection drive, your generosity fills gaps and hearts. Prefer to shop in person? Donations can be dropped off at Door #4 (off 13th Street) Monday through Friday, 9 AM–4 PM.

One Night. One Purpose.

Before the year ends, we’ll gather together as neighbors, partners, and friends to celebrate the shared belief that no one should be left in the dark.

Our Home for the Holidays Gala returns on Friday, November 21, 2025, at The Stables Event Center. It’s a night of storytelling, connection, and commitment to the mission we all carry together.

Tickets on sale October 1. Mark your calendar. Get a little fancy. And help us build a community where everyone has a place to call home.

When you give $5 a week, or $260 a year, you’re doing more than supporting LTHC’s core mission. You’re helping someone hold onto hope.

The Home for Keeps Club recognizes donors who choose to go a little deeper, a little longer, to ensure that housing solutions are always within reach. As a member, you’ll receive special updates on how your generosity is creating lasting change.

Already give monthly? You may already qualify. Thinking about leveling up? Now’s a great time to grow your impact.

Thank you to our generous granting partners for supporting our mission to end homelessness.