2025 Winter Discoveries

Discoveries

Winter 2025

Providing people with intellectual and other disabilities the opportunity to live life to its fullest

The people we serve can’t wait.

Their future — and ours — depends on what we all do next.

LETTER FROM THE CEO As 2025 comes to a close, our focus and priorities have needed to change to address the ever-changing world around us. This is not the first time we have had to pivot. In the 1980s, we moved the people we support from our idyllic campus in Wayzata into homes within communities. We worked hard and prevailed through the challenges we faced at that time. We are now supporting the first generation of people over the age of 50 with disabilities with funding that is uncertain.

As always, we are up for the challenge and remain steadfast to the people we support, our staff, and to our mission.

In this edition of Discoveries, you’ll see the impact of your generosity on the people supported and the dedicated staff that support them at every stage of life.

They are stories of resilience, dignity, and hope that are possible because of your support. This publication also highlights our campaign, Together, We Ensure Tomorrow, to raise funds to deliver our standard of exceptional care for the people we support as they age and training for our staff to be able to provide the right care at the right time.

Thank you for standing with us. Your commitment ensures that Hammer & NER will continue to be more than a place that provides basic services—it is a place of belonging, fulfillment, and exceptional care for the people we support.

With gratitude,

IN THIS ISSUE

John Estrem, CEO

John recently received the ARRM Legacy Leader Award in recognition of his 12+ years of service to ARRM. A past Board President, he has also served on ARRM’s Financial Resources; Grassroots; and Service Innovations Committees.

His nominators praised his lifelong commitment to personcentered practices that honor choice and dignity, noting that his leadership consistently places individuals with disabilities at the center of every decision.

With donors like you who believe in our mission, we will keep moving forward because our mission is too important and because the people we support deserve to live their best lives.

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John with Cordell Dietz whose daughter, Hannah, is supported by Hammer & NER

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Letter from the CEO

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Board Spotlight

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Wentworth—A Lifetime of Support

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Celebrating Long Careers

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Together, We Ensure Tomorrow

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Donor Spotlight

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Meet the Campaign Committee

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It’s Always a Good Time for Advocacy

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Alex’s Legacy of Joy and Connection

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Finding Value and Purpose in Our Work

JOIN US! To learn more, please contact:

Ellen Timmerman-Borer at Ellen.TBorer@hammer.org https://hammer.org/together-we-ensure-tomorrow/ LEARN MORE

BOARD SPOTLIGHT: MITCH RINGE A FAMILY’S COMMITMENT TO A FUTURE OF CARE

By Joe Cullen, Communication Specialist Board President Mitch Ringe shares how his family’s journey with Hammer & NER inspired their dedication to the fundraising campaign.

W

hen Mitch and Judy Marie Ringe began thinking about their son Chris’s future, they knew they needed to find a place where he could thrive long after they were no longer able to provide daily support.

In 2017, Chris moved into a Hammer & NER group home, and the experience has been, in Mitch’s words, “fabulous ever since.”

Chris quickly found his stride—working at Lunds & Byerlys, competing year-round in Special Olympics, and building strong friendships, including with his longtime girlfriend, also supported at Hammer & NER. “If Hammer & NER’s goal is to help people achieve the best life possible, Chris has that,” Mitch shares. “He epitomizes Hammer & NER’s vision of quality of life.”

That deep personal connection has fueled Mitch and Judy Marie’s active involvement. Judy Marie volunteers regularly, and Mitch joined the Board of Directors three years ago, now serving as Board President. For the Ringes, supporting Hammer & NER is both a way to give back and a way to ensure Chris and his housemates continue to receive the best possible care.

“From the beginning, it’s always been important for us to support the people who support Chris,” Mitch says. “The staff are outstanding, and everything Hammer & NER does is focused on helping people live their best lives.”

That belief is also why Mitch and Judy Marie have committed to Hammer & NER’s fundraising campaign, which is focused on preparing for the future needs of the people served. Mitch notes that as individuals with disabilities age, they often experience health challenges earlier and may require greater levels of care. “For Chris and others, that future may come sooner than we think,” he says. “This campaign ensures we’ll be ready—with homes that are accessible, staff who are equipped, and resources in place to continue providing excellent care.”

Looking ahead, Mitch sees both challenges and opportunities.

On the near horizon are uncertainties around state and federal funding, but longer term, the organization must prepare for an

aging population and the need for new, innovative care models. “Hammer & NER has always been forwardthinking,” he says, pointing to the apartment program as an example. “We need to keep that spirit alive as we plan for the next century.”

For Mitch, his vision for Hammer & NER’s future is rooted in gratitude and hope.

“Judy Marie and I know Chris will outlive us,” he says. “What gives us peace of mind is knowing Hammer & NER will continue to be there—keeping him safe, active, and living the best life possible. That’s what this campaign is about.”

Mitch and Judy Marie at the launch event of our Campaign, Together, We Ensure Tomorrow

In his free time, Mitch loves reading, traveling, hiking, and being outdoors and on the water. He plans to retire soon and is looking forward to seeing what the next adventure is.

Chris relaxing in an Adirondack chair that he and Mitch crafted

Discoveries

Managing Editors Barbara Brandt / Barbara.Brandt@Hammer.org Jennifer L. Hipple / Jennifer.Hipple@Hammer.org Contributing Writers Isaiah Allen, Becky Bollinger, Barbara Brandt, Anna Byro, Joe Cullen, David Duxbury, John Estrem, Jennifer L. Hipple, Sondra Huggett, Jerry LeVasseur, Jill Peters, Kate Roehl, Mike Siebenaler, Ellen Timmerman-Borer Photography: Barbara Brandt, Joe Cullen, Adam Estrem, Jennifer L. Hipple Graphic Design: Jennifer Larson

Discoveries | 3

WENTWORTH—THOUGHTFULLY CONSTRUCTED FOR A LIFETIME OF SUPPORT

By Barbara Brandt, Director of Communication

W

alking into the Wentworth group home in Minnetonka, you immediately feel a sense of belonging, from the welcoming staff and people supported alike. For more than four decades, this house has been home to four men— supported by the dedicated staff who have helped them navigate life through the years.

Built in 2000 with financial support from the Wesley family, Wentworth was designed as a home where the people supported could thrive. In the 1980s, Wentworth was home to four boys—Mickey, Murray, Mark, and Doug—who moved from the Hammer campus dorms. After Doug passed away, Tim joined the household in 2018. Now in their 50s, Mickey, Murray, Mark, and Tim are living out the home’s original purpose: a safe, lifelong home where they can age together with dignity and live a full life.

Over the decades, the men have become like brothers. They know each other’s habits and preferences, and they find comfort in the familiarity of their shared routines. Each individual’s preferences guide the staff that support them in their daily life—knowing what each man loves to do, alongside what keeps them healthy and safe.

Mark, with assistance from Ann, helps make the men’s favorite fruit salad for dinner.

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Each man’s interests are as unique as they are.

As each man’s needs change, creativity and compassion help guide staff to keep them engaged and healthy.

Tim finds joy in making art with his stickers.

Showers that were once a struggle for Murray were turned into a game. Now, when Murray’s personal care routine is complete, he lines up his Hot Wheels cars on the shower ledge and gives them a “car wash” with the handheld shower nozzle. What was once a challenge is now a highlight for Murray.

Mark, who loves to help cook, can be involved thanks to some adaptive items researched by Ann Wilmes, Wentworth’s Program Manager.

Tim, who is a little more reserved, is encouraged to join in and work on his sticker art during time at the table.

Mickey, in his younger days, loved Hammer Travel fishing trips. Now, though less active, he enjoys drawing, coloring, and playing with blocks at the kitchen table alongside his housemates. These social activities ensure each person remains engaged, independent, and active in his own way.

Mickey loves to build tall “walls” with the magnetic blocks.

The men supported at Wentworth with Ann, left to right: Mark, Tim, Murray, Mickey, and Ann

Ann Wilmes has been with Hammer & NER for nearly seven years. She began her career as the Lead DSP at Merrimac in Plymouth, then became the Medical Lead DSP at our ReNew Apartments program in Eden Prairie before stepping into the Program Manager role at Wentworth. Ann and the Wentworth staff support Mickey, Murray, Mark, and Tim, guiding daily routines, health, and safety as they navigate the challenges of aging.

The home itself has also evolved to meet the realities of aging.

Raised toilets, handrails, shower treads, and walk-in showers with shower chairs have been added over the years to keep everyone safe. Wentworth was designed with a lifetime of care in mind, so that larger structural changes won’t be needed, just added features.

Behind these activities of daily living are the skilled and dedicated staff who support Mickey, Murray, Mark, and Tim daily. As the people we support age, training for staff makes all the difference so they will know how to adapt routines, advocate for medical needs, and provide continuity. Nursing support is also available 24/7 at the home, keeping ahead of things like fall risk assessments, hearing aid support, and ongoing monitoring of the health of the people supported.

What matters most is keeping people safe while ensuring they remain active members of the household and the community.

From making their beds and preparing meals to enjoying their favorite pastimes and social events, these daily routines and activities help the people we support to thrive and live a full and purposeful life.

“The Wentworth home shows us that with an accessible home together with highly trained staff, the people supported can thrive at every stage of life.” —Brenda Barthel, Program Director

Murray chooses the cars that will be cleaned in his after shower “car wash.”

Today, homes like Wentworth are critical to serving the first generation of senior citizens living with disabilities. Many of our homes need upgrades to accommodate our aging population. These proactive improvements ensure our homes remain safe and supportive environments as people age. —Ellen Timmerman-Borer, Campaign Director Discoveries | 5

CELEBRATING LONG CAREERS OF DEDICATION & CARING In 2025, we marked the retirements of four veteran staff who dedicated their long careers (30+ years each!) to Hammer & NER. They stood with us through changes and challenges big and small. They have walked alongside those we support on their life journeys, sharing their joys, achievements, sorrows, and adventures. Each could write a book about their experiences. Here, we share a glimpse into their careers at Hammer & NER.

Sue Walker, Chief Program Officer, 48 Years

By Jennifer L. Hipple, Communication Specialist After 48 years of service, our Chief Program Officer, Sue Walker, retired in October. Sue began her career at Hammer Residences in 1977 as a live-in staff member at our on-campus apartments and at the Annex group home, a farmhouse once located where the West office stands today. What began as a short-term, part-time job evolved into a remarkable four-decade career. Throughout her career, Sue served as Supervisory Staff, Manager, Program Director, and ultimately Chief Program Officer.

As Program Director during the 1980s state-mandated downsizing, Sue helped transition residents from on-campus dormitories to residential group homes, including those leaving state institutions. She was instrumental in identifying homes in the western suburbs and thoughtfully matching individuals with housemates.

Sue’s signature achievements include helping develop our Training department in 2007; partnering to create an End-ofLife Task Force to support teams and families; and introducing our Second Century project, which restructured the Program department to better support individuals and staff through cross training.

As a leader and mentor, Sue empowered staff to turn ideas into action. She encouraged others to recognize their strengths,

Sue and Michael share a special moment

pursue growth, and plan for future careers—whether within Hammer & NER or beyond.

Sue also made a lasting impact on the broader disability services community through her work with ARRM, an advocacy organization. She actively served on committees and worked to improve lives across the state.

Sue’s legacy lives on in the lives of those she touched and in the progress she championed as our organization has grown and matured.

Cindy Johnson, DSP, 40 Years

By Jill Peters, Lead DSP, Holdridge Cindy started her long career at Hammer Residences as a volunteer with Catholic Charities, which led to working at Gleason Lake, Sheridan, and Holdridge. Cindy was always a hard worker, working at Hammer & NER throughout her career as a special education teacher and continuing after she retired from teaching.

Cindy was a member of “The Skirts” band with two of her friends, and they played for many Hammer dances and functions. Some of her favorite memories are when Don Rudd filled in on the drums for a few songs and watching Kelly Collier and others hang out by the speakers while they played.

Cindy with Ryan from Holdridge

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The people Cindy supported always enjoyed their time with her. She loved to have fun, tell jokes, and make sure everyone had a good time.

Lin Curran, Chief of Operations, 38 Years

By Sondra Huggett, Director of Licensing & Becky Bollinger, Director of Compliance In June, Lin Curran retired after nearly four decades of unwavering commitment. Lin stands as a pillar of excellence, resilience, and leadership. Lin not only witnessed the evolution of our organization but has been instrumental in shaping its path. Starting in the convent at St. Mary’s Church (NER’s original location), Lin brought a vision and work ethic that quickly set her apart. Over the years, she has worn many hats—mentor, innovator, problem-solver and, above all, a leader who leads by example.

Lin pioneered or was responsible for several innovations, including creating an in-house IT department (she was the only internal IT employee for many years, in addition to her other responsibilities) as well as the Quality Assurance department.

When NER merged with Hammer Residences, Lin pivoted again to reinvent herself as the Chief of Operations. Lin was skilled at looking at where the organization was at the time, where it was headed, and what initiatives were needed to get there. Developing IT, Quality Assurance, and Operations were all in response to that foresight. She also pushed us to be critical thinkers, and we know we’re the employees that we are because of her mentorship!

Ken Harper, Program Manager, 34 Years

By Jerry LeVasseur, Senior Director of Program Operations

Lin and her husband, Fred, who retired from Hammer & NER in 2024 after 29 years

From navigating changes to championing employee growth, Lin consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to the people and mission of Hammer & NER. Beyond the professional milestones, Lin cultivated a culture of respect and integrity. Her legacy of leadership is not just in the projects completed or goals achieved, but in the countless lives she has impacted along the way.

Ken and his wife, Debra

In September, we celebrated Ken Harper’s retirement following a 34-year career. During that time, Ken made a significant impact on, and contributions to, the people we support, fellow employees, and families. As a Program Director, Ken led nine programs within the Purple Squad and was a mentor and trainer for countless Program Managers and peers. He is a facet of the Hammer & NER legacy that will continue for years to come. Ken says his favorite memory is developing and maintaining relationships with individuals. Some current Program Managers share that Ken was a calming force when times were tough and that he was always present and able to provide good advice.

Although Sue, Lin, Cindy, and Ken will be missed and we will have big shoes to fill, we are happy for them and wish them the best during their retirement.

To honor Sue, Lin, Cindy, and Ken and their extraordinary legacy of compassion and service, we invite you to make a gift to our Home Improvement Fund. Visit hammer.org/give/#donateform. In the “Designation” section please select “Home Improvements.” In the “Comment” section please add one or more of these retirees’ names. Gifts to this fund will ensure the people we support live in homes that meet their needs and sustain the culture of care that Sue, Lin, Cindy, and Ken have embodied in their careers.

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TOGETHER, WE ENSURE TOMORROW

T

he evening at Woodhill Country Club on November 6 was historic as we celebrated the impact donors are making on the lives of those we support and officially launched the Together, We Ensure Tomorrow campaign. The goal of this campaign, our most ambitious fundraising effort ever, is to raise $5 million or more

by April 2026 for immediate critical funding needs and to lay a solid foundation to fulfill our mission long term.

The needs of Hammer & NER are changing rapidly as we prepare for the impact of Medicaid cuts and state program changes. Government funding for services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities continues to be restricted, and the gap between what is funded and what is needed is widening.

The Together, We Ensure Tomorrow campaign will ensure we can continue to provide excellent, person-centered care in the face of these challenges. The people we serve can’t wait. Their future—and ours—depends on what we all do next.

CAMPAIGN PRIORITIES AGING WELL & END-OF-LIFE CARE

We will provide the right care at the right time as people age and live out their lives with grace and dignity. They want and deserve to continue living in a safe and secure home with well-trained caregivers, meaningful activities, and nursing and medical care that allow them to age well. Donor support will help transform the care and services we provide to meet the complex needs of those we serve throughout their lives.

SKILLED & DEDICATED STAFF

Campaign Co-Chair, Bill Luther, shares his personal story at a Campaign launch event.

Ron and Lori Hume, family members and generous campaign supporters

Hiring and retaining skilled, dedicated, and caring Direct Support Professionals is key to our mission. Wages for these professionals have not kept pace with those offered in other professions that do similar work, making it difficult to recruit and retain these quality caregivers. Donor support will ensure we have the resources to achieve long-range stability and provide muchneeded funding to train and competitively employ those who work tirelessly to help the people we serve flourish.

MEETING NEW CHALLENGES WITH THIS CAMPAIGN Medical advances mean people with disabilities are living longer, healthier, and more active lives than ever before.

Homes must be remodeled to improve accessibility with lifts, elevators, widened floor plans, and updated bathrooms.

Joel and Mary Amundson (right), family members, advocates, and campaign supporters with friends Rick and Karen Palmer

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Staff need advanced training and new resources to meet increased medical and mobility needs.

Additional nursing support and medical care are required, even when Medicaid does not cover it.

TOGETHER, WE ENSURE TOMORROW BECAUSE HOME IS EVERYTHING

By Isaiah Allen, Chief Development Officer

H

ome is so important to us all. It’s the place that holds our memories. It’s where we gather with family and friends to celebrate holidays, enjoy a meal, or just hang out together.

We want our homes to be comfortable and safe and to provide what we need to have a good life. Home is where we want to live as long as we are able.

At Hammer & NER, home means everything to the people we serve.

And to our dedicated caregivers, home is where they provide the care and support that ensures everyone can enjoy the best life possible. It’s important and noble work.

I am excited about this campaign and the opportunity it gives us all to ensure the future for the individuals we support and their caregivers.

Our donors and families have always been vital to our ability to fulfill our mission. With your support now, we will finish this campaign strong and ensure our future. Thank you for your commitment to Hammer & NER.

Lilian Marriott, Program Manager at Cedarwood East with Shannon

Micah, supported at Hammer & NER, with his mother, Barb Peterson, a Board member

Isaiah with Jacob, supported at our Knollway home

Jen Velaski with her son, Doran, supported at Knollway

DID YOU KNOW? The disabilities services industry is in a period of great uncertainty.

Recent federal legislation translates into a historic disinvestment in the health and wellbeing of Minnesotans, including those living with intellectual disabilities.

The impact of proposed cuts to Medical Assistance will be significant. For every person we serve at Hammer & NER, this is their primary source of healthcare funding—and their funding is what supports us.

Recent reductions to both federal and state funding mean far fewer resources than we anticipated to support our operation. The cost of living and delivering care continues to rise, but the available funds to operate do not.

Increased funds are needed to fill the gap in order to prevent cuts that would be detrimental to the people we serve and their families. We must face these challenges head on and take action now.

We need your support. Please give today at: https://hammer.org/together-we-ensure-tomorrow/ donate/

LEARN MORE

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TOGETHER, WE ENSURE TOMORROW DONOR SPOTLIGHT: INSPIRED BY LIZ’S JOY LONG FRIENDSHIP NURTURES SPECIAL CONNECTION

By Kate Roehl, Community Member and Hammer & NER Supporter

I

never imagined that singing in a church choir would lead to a decades-long partnership with Hammer & NER.

About 40 years ago, my husband, Jerry, and I were raising four young children and regularly attending church.

Through the choir, I met Liz—a joyful woman supported

by Hammer & NER—whose love for singing left a lasting impression on me.

When our family joined Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Community in Wayzata, Fr. Arnold Weber created a welcoming space for individuals with developmental disabilities. We watched as several people supported

by Hammer & NER, and brought by volunteers, began attending Sunday Mass. That tradition continues today through a monthly special needs program.

These relationships deeply impacted our family, inspiring us to financially support Hammer & NER. We believe every individual deserves a life of dignity, respect, and peace. It’s our responsibility as a community to offer a hand-up so they can live life to the fullest.

Four decades ago, when I first met individuals supported by Hammer & NER, many were young, independent, and full of energy. Over time, their needs have changed—requiring more medical care, adapted transportation, and perhaps a change to their housing situation. Both those served and their caregivers need increased resources.

Liz and Kate enjoy chatting after Sunday Mass

That’s why our family is investing in the Together, We Ensure Tomorrow campaign. Hammer & NER is now caring for the first generation of senior citizens with developmental disabilities, and the need is urgent. It brings us joy to support this campaign so those served—and those who care for them—can thrive well into the future.

Growing up, my parents instilled in us the importance of generosity and doing the right thing. Supporting Hammer & NER feels like the right thing for our family—and now is the right time.

Perhaps it’s the right time for your family, too. Together, we can ensure a future filled with dignity, care, and opportunity for every individual served by Hammer & NER.

It brings us joy to support this campaign so those served—and those who care for them— can thrive well into the future.

Please consider making a gift today.

Your help is urgently needed.

Visit https://hammer.org/togetherwe-ensure-tomorrow/donate/ Kate and Jerry with their family

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LEARN MORE

TOGETHER, WE ENSURE TOMORROW THE PATH FORWARD

MEET OUR CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE

By Ellen Timmerman-Borer, Campaign Director

Bill Luther & Janet Robert, Campaign Committee Chairs: Our son, Alex, lived a fulfilling life at the Carlson home surrounded by staff who lovingly supported him. We observed firsthand the staffing challenges in adapting to Alex’s changing needs as he aged and transitioned through mental and physical decline. Our experience highlighted the seriousness and urgency of the campaign’s goal to ensure a secure tomorrow.

Tim Haugen: Our family has volunteered over the years to support the good work of Hammer & NER even before we received services. Our daughter, MacKenzie, has been in her Hammer & NER home for over a year.

She is living in a caring environment served by skilled and compassionate staff. We see challenges ahead for MacKenzie and others. This is why we have chosen to support this campaign and invite you to learn more about it.

Linda Holmen: My sister, Anne, has lived at Hammer & NER for 50 years.

She loves her apartment in Plymouth.

The long-term survival of Hammer & NER is so important to me because of Anne’s continued need for support as she is getting older. We wouldn’t want her anywhere else! I am working to ensure Hammer & NER is around for another 100 years!

John Tulloch: Hammer & NER has been home for my son, Robb, for 25 years. He lives with three roommates in White Bear Lake and is served by dedicated staff. Because of Hammer & NER, Robb can live in a peaceful and loving home. This level of quality care has allowed us to experience peace of mind. We value Hammer & NER’s future and what it means for 370 families like ours.

Throughout our history, Hammer & NER has moved and changed with the reality of the world around us. This is such a moment. With donors like you who believe in our mission, we will keep moving forward because our mission is too important and because the people we support deserve to live their best lives.

Jerry Caruso: My son has been supported at Hammer & NER for 14 years, and as a result he has been able to live life to his fullest. As he approaches 40, his care needs will change and this fundraising campaign will help support crossing these new bridges as they happen. Family and community support is critical today and long into the future.

Devin Harrington: After 20 years of being connected to Hammer & NER, it’s clear that our mission is more important than ever. Caring for others, particularly those who cannot fully care for themselves, is a true vocation. I will continue to support such an organization, now and into the future. Please join me.

JOIN US! To learn more contact

Ellen Timmerman-Borer, Campaign Director: Ellen.TBorer@hammer.org https://hammer.org/together-weensure-tomorrow/

Discoveries | 11

REACH OUT AND MAKE AN IMPACT

By Mike Siebenaler, Director of Advocacy

Y

ou have opinions and think about them during the day and use them to make daily decisions. You also seek advice. You ask others for their opinions, such as recommendations for a meal, what to wear, read or watch.

Elected representatives; Governors, Legislators, and Senators are the same—they have opinions that can be influenced by others. They deal with so many issues every day that they rely on people affected by their decisions to share their stories and opinions with them. Many are influenced by the calls, letters, and e-mails they receive from their constituents; you! Hammer & NER Advocacy can help you be the one who influences their votes.

We advocate for more funds to maintain our homes and

apartments, to provide daily services, to allow those we support to live their best lives. The elected officials who vote to add or remove funds from Medicaid need to hear from you, often, so they know how the funds are spent in their districts and state. It is easier to cut funds from a program if you are not familiar with its recipients than it is to cut funds from your constituents you hear from often. Let’s all be the advocates they hear from, learn from, and rely on to know how Medicaid affects us in Minnesota. There is no limit to the number of calls or e-mails you can send.

If you have never interacted with an elected official to request something, it is much easier than you think. They ran for office because they care about making our community a

MEET JOEL & MARY Some of our families have decided to get involved and meet with their representatives to discuss funds and services for those with disabilities. That is the case with Joel and Mary Amundson.

We learned how to approach political leaders and educate them on the role Hammer & NER provides to persons with disabilities. We shared how Hammer & NER has impacted our family in caring for our daughter. At this point, we are very comfortable in approaching our legislative leaders, of both parties, to tell them our story. Access to our legislators is much easier than we thought!

They love to hear stories so they can share them in

session. The more stories they hear, the bigger the impact. They have listened well, and learned well, to understand our daily journey with our daughter and her caregivers. Call or write a letter to share your story! We will continue to advocate, not only to our legislators, but also to our family, our neighbors, our friends, our church friends . . . everyone! It is fun and worth the time. Please join us!”

—Joel & Mary Amundson

The Amundson family

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better place. They have opinions on how to achieve that better place that may be the same as your vision or it may be different from you. There is a famous drawing, where viewers are asked to determine if what they see is a duck or a rabbit. Many have firm feelings that it is one and not the other. The political climate, at the state and federal levels, is similar right now.

In July 2025, Congress cut $1 trillion from Medicaid. It was a close vote that will likely have a huge impact on Hammer & NER. We need to contact legislators, so they are aware of the impact of that vote. If they see the cuts as something that won’t affect you, you need to tell them otherwise. If they see only a rabbit, tell them how you see the duck.

Maybe you have watched politics and politicians from the sidelines but have never been involved in issues. These historic cuts to Medicaid are an opportunity for you to get involved: make calls or send letters or e-mails to your representatives.

Blue indicates Hammer & NER budget received from government sources (Medicaid, grants, all federal and state sources) which total 88% of our annual budget.

Other revenue sources include program service fees, contributions, in-kind contributions, and special events.

SPEAKING UP & MAKING OUR VOICES HEARD

Y

ou, me, your relatives, and your neighbors are all unique. We all have strengths and weaknesses. Advocacy comes in many forms. You can easily find the most comfortable way for you to advocate. If you get nervous speaking to strangers or in front of others, try calling legislators. If you prefer to take time to edit your words, try sending a letter or e-mail to your elected representatives. Contacting elected representatives is your constitutional right, and it is needed now more than ever as state and federal officials are seeking ways to reduce Medicaid funds to places like Hammer & NER.

Meeting with Rep. Ethan Cha (District 47B) during Disability Services Day at the Capitol

PLEASE SIGN UP TO RECEIVE LEGISLATIVE ALERTS from our Advocacy department and contact legislators from

the links shared by Hammer & NER. If you would like to meet with me, you can reach me at: Michael.siebenaler@hammer.org or (952) 277-2427. I can help you write, make calls, or find other ways for you to contribute to our advocacy. I hope you will plan to participate in the next annual Day at the Capitol, scheduled for March 24, 2026 in St. Paul.

Discoveries | 13

ALEX’S LEGACY OF JOY AND CONNECTION REMEMBERING A LIFE WELL LIVED

By Anna Byro, Senior Program Director

A

lex was magnetic—it’s difficult to put into words just how impactful he truly was. He always had a smile on his face, and people naturally gravitated toward him.

To his family, he was the center of their world. To us, Alex brought energy, warmth, and life to our staff team and his friends.

Alex had an infinite zest for life and never missed a chance to shine. When he wasn’t off on incredible adventures with his family, he was building meaningful connections with his peers. His laughter was infectious, his cheers during games were loud and joyful, and he found deep fulfillment through our volunteer program, which helped him foster a lasting bond with his friend, Tom. I recently came across Alex’s leap year goals—he had written down his dreams for the next four years: to travel more, make new friends, and become an artist. I’m proud to say that Alex accomplished those goals. Through house activities and creative opportunities at our Wayzata office, he continued to grow as an artist. He met many people who became close friends, and he traveled with his family until he was no longer able to. Even then, we found ways to bring the world to him—through virtual tours, YouTube videos, and National Geographic shows—ensuring his spirit of adventure never faded.

Alex enriched our lives in countless ways. Toward the end of his journey, Alex unintentionally shifted our team’s focus: As he grew older, he challenged us to think creatively about how to support him, whether by adapting his environment or nurturing his social connections. He also demonstrated how to prioritize what truly matters, by indulging in the things he loved like dancing, singing, and being close to the people he loved the most—and letting go of the trivial concerns that fade in significance.

Alex greatly impacted the lives of those who supported him. His presence was a gift—one that reminded us daily of the power of joy, connection, and living life fully. His legacy continues to inspire us to look beyond limitations and embrace each moment with purpose and love. Though he is no longer with us, the light he brought into our lives will never fade. We carry forward his spirit in the way we care, celebrate, and connect—with gratitude for having known someone so extraordinary.

Alex, surrounded by his loving family.. Bill and Janet are chairing our Together, We Ensure Tomorrow Campaign. You can read more about them and the Campaign Committee on page 11.

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Alex began his journey with Hammer & NER in 2011, receiving in-home services. He transitioned to an apartment program and later moved to our Carlson home in 2015. Alex passed away in July and will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by his family and friends, his Carlson housemates, and his staff.

Alex with his good friend, Tom Venable

The support Alex received allowed us to enjoy our time being parents to him. We are passionate about Hammer & NER because we value the future for other families.

Together with others, we are confident we can ensure tomorrow for individuals living with disabilities and for their caregivers.

— Bill Luther & Janet Robert

FINDING VALUE & PURPOSE IN OUR WORK SUPPORTING THOSE WHO SUPPORT OUR INDIVIDUALS

By Jennifer L. Hipple, Communication Specialist

B

ode Ogunfowora was searching for meaningful work. She had earned a degree in accounting and finance before coming to the US and wanted to work in her field but needed a job while she waited to complete her evaluations. A friend who was working at NER (Northeast Residence) suggested she apply for a job.

She did and was hired as a DSP at the Rollingview home in White Bear Lake in 2013.

“Transitioning to a new industry, everything was fresh and different while I also was adapting to a different culture,” Bode says. “I had to start at the beginning, had to learn the job, but I found I liked it.” Bode decided to make a career out of direct care, one where she could grow and learn.

She soon became a Lead staff and then Program Manager at Rollingview. Along the way, Bode had mentors who supported her.

few months on the job. Without preparation, they may face a variety of challenges. Perhaps they are assigned to a home that requires a lot of personal cares. Some may need support with skill development or time management. I’ve met with people from different cultural backgrounds to help with communication conflicts with colleagues.

“When I meet with new staff, we assess their core values and their personal and professional goals,” says Cate. “We want to help caregivers identify what is important to them as an individual and how those values align with our organization’s core values. When we know our values, and live them out consistently, we build strength on the job, feeling more fulfilled and satisfied. This support toward success on the job feeds growth, and employee growth strengthens our services.”

We would like everyone to find fulfillment in their job and a sense of belonging like Bode has. —Cate Saracen Peters

Bode Ogunfowora

Cate Saracen Peters

“When I first started, I wondered what I had gotten myself into,” Bode says. “Mentorship is very important. You need people who are willing to be supportive, show you things, help you if you make mistakes.” Bode realized a valuable lesson about herself. “I don’t let challenges hold me back.

I’m driven.” Now Bode helps mentor others.

Cate Saracen Peters agrees with Bode about the importance of mentoring, especially for new staff. Throughout her long career at Hammer & NER (44 years!), Cate has held various positions. Today, she is in a brand-new role as Employee Success Coach, working with new employees to build a foundation for success.

“Mentoring can really make a difference,” says Cate. “We found that 1 in 4 new hires were leaving within the first

DONOR SUPPORT IS THE DIFFERENCE MAKER Earlier this year, Cate Saracen Peters stepped into the role of employee success coach, a first for Hammer & NER—and campaign donors made it possible.

Employee Success Coaching helps employees address issues that concern them to ensure they are well-equipped to do their jobs and fulfill our mission. Some employees need access to personal support resources, some are looking for ways to develop additional LEARN MORE skills, build their confidence, and others need help creating a plan to achieve short- and long-term performance goals.

JOIN US! To learn more please contact: Ellen.TBorer@hammer.org

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Hammer & NER 1909 Wayzata Blvd.

Wayzata, MN 55391 952-473-1261 Hammer.org

TOGETHER WE MAKE LIVING LIFE TO ITS FULLEST POSSIBLE FOR THE PEOPLE WE SUPPORT!

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Equal Opportunity Employer