Discoveries
Providing people with intellectual and other disabilities the opportunity to live life to its fullest
Nuturing Community
Tim’s “community” has been with him throughout his life, adapting to meet his changing needs (pages 4-5)
LETTER FROM THE CEO
From our earliest days, Hammer & NER has understood the importance of growth and forward movement. An organization that doesn’t continually grow risks becoming stagnant, perhaps even losing its relevance. That, in part, influenced our decision last year to begin exploring a potential merger with Living Well Disability Services (Living Well).
One of our shared values is our commitment to the people we support; it is at the heart of everything we do. At Hammer & NER, we have talked for a long time about our aging population and their increasing needs. Living Well is well known for providing services to those with high needs—expertise we want to tap into. And conversely, they have fewer services for those who are more independent, but still have a need for services, something we do well. Simply put, we each have what the other one needs, and a merger is an efficient way for each organization to get what it needs so that we can continue to focus on our mission.
Secondary drivers of this decision include rising administrative costs. By coming together, we could see significant savings (for instance, having one CEO rather than two). We would also see cost savings from systems integration. We both have electronic health records systems and payroll systems that are quite expensive. Becoming a larger organization also gives us a more powerful voice with legislators (something we noticed after we merged with NER). When we talk about how many people we serve, the bigger you are the more they listen to you. Finally, and just as importantly, a merger provides those we serve as well as our employees with more opportunities.
As you can see, a merger would benefit us as a community, which happens to be the theme of this edition of Discoveries . Inside we share a variety of stories reflecting what community looks like to those we support, their families, our staff, volunteers, community partners, and donors. It takes a community to live our mission. Thank you for being a part of it.
Blessings,
John Estrem, CEO
With Pat Houston and her daughter, Kerry, who is supported at our Vicksburg Village apartments
IN THIS ISSUE
PAGE 2 Letter from the CEO
PAGE 3 Board Spotlight
PAGES 4-5 Tim’s Story
PAGE 6 Meet Minnesota’s DSP of the Year!
PAGE 7 Sharing Our Lives with Others
PAGE 8-9 Empowering the Heart & Soul
PAGES 10 Amplifying Your Voice 2024 Annual Report
PAGE 11 Nurturing a Person-Centered Community
PAGE 12 A Blossoming Partnership
PAGE 13 First Impressions from a Newbie
PAGES 14-15 Consecutive Donors Stand the Test of Time
PAGE 16 Old Friends Are Among the Best Friends
PAGES 17 Hammer & NER Heritage Society
PAGE 18 Community Employment Helps Create a Sense of Belonging
PAGE 19
The Dept. of Labor’s Proposed Elimination of 14(C) Subminimum Wage Certificate
BACK COVER Join Us for Reach for Ralph!
BOARD SPOTLIGHT: BARB PETERSON
Iwas asked what I like about serving on the Board. It’s hard to find just one thing Hammer & NER does well. We provide really good service for those who need us. The Board and staff have a desire to live out the mission. It’s words they really believe in, and the values really hold true. So many for-profit companies have a mission as part of their organizational structure, but it can be pretty hollow when it comes to business and profits. Hammer & NER’s mission and vision have meaning and are actionable. And I love the forward thinking that Hammer & NER has done to make us viable in the future. That is very important.
The people we serve are often invisible in our society. Hammer & NER gives them a voice and recognizes the specialized knowledge, care, and heart that is needed to provide the most comprehensive care.
Before I had a son who was disabled, I knew very little about this community. Hammer Residences existed long before we considered having Micah in a group home. There’s a historical knowledge and commitment to this population. And now I’m proud to serve on the Board. I have also served as Chair of the Program committee, which was established to have eyes on the programmatic things we do, the day-to-day operations.
My wife, Melissa, and I live in St. Anthony Village. We’re just eight blocks from Micah’s Hammer & NER home. We have a big, wonderful family that keeps us very busy! Our three older kids live in New Mexico and West Virginia. Then we have our Micah, who is 28 years old, and our 18-year-old son who is a freshman at St. Olaf. I grew up in Forest Lake, and after high school I began a long educational path, beginning with becoming a registered nurse (RN). I worked in the ICU and then psychiatry before going back to get a master’s in nursing, focusing on treating children and adolescents with psychiatric problems. I completed my PhD in Nursing from Wayne State University. I have been a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist for 25 years, mostly serving at-risk children and families. I am a Clinical Professor at the University of Minnesota School of Nursing and Director of the Psychiatric Mental Health Doctor of Nursing Practice program.
In my free time, I love reading, traveling, hiking, and being outdoors and on the water. I plan to retire later this year and am looking forward to seeing what the next adventure is.
Barb and Micah
The people we serve are often invisible in our society. Hammer & NER gives them a voice and recognizes the specialized knowledge, care, and heart that is needed to provide the most comprehensive care.
Discoveries
Managing Editors
Barbara Brandt / Barbara.Brandt@Hammer.org
Jennifer L. Hipple / Jennifer.Hipple@Hammer.org
Contributing Writers
Isaiah Allen, Joe Cullen, Lin Curran, David Duxbury, John Estrem, Jennifer L. Hipple, Pam Janczewski, Lindsey Kvern, Jerry LeVasseur, Mike Siebenaler, Cathy Thoma, Ginger Venable
Photography: Barbara Brandt, Joe Cullen, Adam Estrem, Jennifer L. Hipple
Graphic Design: Jennifer Larson
Tim’s Story
NURTURING COMMUNITY THROUGH THE SEASONS OF LIFE
By Lin Curran, Chief of Operations
Providing people with a sense of community often means understanding their needs and desires and walking alongside them to create a world that nurtures the essence of who they are. As people grow older, we know that for many, their worlds become smaller. We strive to adapt to their changing needs so they can enjoy a sense of belonging and connection.
It was 25+ years ago when I first met Tim. He started attending NER’s Respite program in 1984, gradually moving into one of our long-term homes. He moved into the Allen home and then within a few years moved to the Edgewater home which has truly worked out well for him.
Carla Pleasants, who has been employed at Hammer & NER for 36 years, worked with Tim when he attended the Respite program. At that time, Carla was one of the Qualified Developmental Disability Professionals for the program.
“Tim was quiet and gentle in his manner and got along well with others which is still true today,” Carla says. He also made close friends with a group of young men and when they got together, the hi-jinks were sure to happen. Good guys versus bad guys, cops and robbers, and any other version of this genre would happen when Tim was with one or more of these young men. “Too often, it was the staff who were the ‘bad guys’ and I for one, was put into ‘jail’ more than once!”
Carla says with a laugh.
Tim is known for loving his “papers” and office work more than any other activity. At Respite, he would spend hours organizing “his office,” in a corner of his bedroom. The staff often found themselves missing paper, clipboards, pens, and pencils when Tim was around. According to Tim, these items were needed for his “office work.” So, Tim would be provided with his own clipboard, paper, pen, and pencil to use while he was at Respite. He continues to have an office at his Edgewater home.
I remember one time at the Respite program I walked into the kitchen/dining room area and Tim was standing there with eyes fixed on another person who was sweeping the floor. In Tim’s mind, it was his job. So, with a quick discussion, staff were able to work things around so that everyone was happy, including Tim, broom in hand.
Diane Mack is another long-term employee with Hammer & NER going back 40+ years. She worked the awake overnight shift until the Respite program closed. “I remember Tim always wanted to have a dill pickle (or dill spears) added to his cold lunches along with a small can of V-8 juice,” she says. Tim has always enjoyed the simple pleasures.
Tim also loves to dance. His love of music and dancing has always been evident, especially if one observes him at the annual Luau. He feels the music to his core and his body movements prove this. It is as if he is the only person on the floor, just enjoying the moment.
Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of going on a couple vacations with Tim. We went to Branson, Missouri and
Tim with DSP Ramzi Geraldo
Tim with Carla Pleasants
another time to San Antonio, Texas. We visited The Alamo, and it was evident that Tim has a true appreciation of people in uniform as he would salute when he felt the need to do so.
It takes a community of people to help shape a person’s direction in life. It is clear it started with Tim’s family. Their gentleness and kindness is embedded in him. They nurtured his needs and wants, which continued with staff at Respite making sure he had the things important to him such as his office space, preferred chores, and spending his leisure time listening to music, dancing, or creating art. Though Tim has slowed down quite a bit, the staff at Edgewater continue to make sure he has the things that are important to him like his office and attending the Luau and other events where he can socialize and dance at his pace.
We hope he will always dance.
Tim loves his office
The dancing machine
Hanging out at the San Antonio Zoo
Tim with housemate, Sharon
MEET MINNESOTA’S DSP OF THE YEAR! GLORIA FAHNBULLEH RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION
By Jennifer L. Hipple, Communication Specialist
We are pleased to announce that Gloria Fahnbulleh, DSP at Black Oaks, has been named the Minnesota DSP of the Year! This recognition comes from ANCOR, a national trade and advocacy organization representing the developmental disability services community. Gloria was selected from 500 nominations. Award winners are chosen based on the outstanding work they do to support individuals in meaningful ways.
Gloria joined Hammer & NER in December 2017 as part of the Black Oaks team in Plymouth. Her Program Manager, Tomeko Champion-Patrick, says Gloria works hard to ensure that the four ladies she supports, Mary, Chris, Diana, and Judy, receive personcentered opportunities to live more meaningful and self-directed lives. “Gloria plans outings and signs the ladies up for events that nurture their sense of community,” she says. “She has organized experiences through Project SOAR including movie night
with pizza and game night playing bingo with other individuals in the community. Gloria also takes the ladies to the Cinema Grill for classic movies and hot chocolate, Target runs for coffee and treats, Caribou Coffee
for hot chocolate chip cookies, walks around Parker’s Lake Park, restaurant outings for meals, family visits, stops at the flower shop—you name it! It’s impressive that someone in an overnight support role, like Gloria, goes above and beyond to show such care and dedication.”
Gloria encourages the ladies to complete their daily or weekly goals by first asking them what they are interested in and how she can assist them with their goals. “One of the ladies loves going to her home church,” Tomeko says. “Gloria volunteers to take her as she understands going to church and practicing her religion is very important to her. Gloria makes sure she feels heard and respected.”
Gloria also has a talent for helping the ladies nurture relationships. She helps them plan outings and dates with friends and loved ones. She assists one lady in maintaining her 20-year relationship with her boyfriend by calling him at least once a week and planning outings for them, such as going to the movies.
“Gloria gives these ladies the freedom to make the daily decisions we all make, ensuring they have control over their own lives regardless of their disabilities,” says Tomeko.
“We are so proud and thankful for the work that Gloria does, and that it is recognized on a national level,” says Sue Walker, Hammer & NER’s Chief Program Officer. “Gloria exemplifies the strong values of Hammer & NER every day and we thank her for the person-centered, creative, and caring support she provides the women at Black Oaks.”
Gloria with Chris, Mary, and Diana
Gloria Fahnbulleh
SHARING OUR LIVES WITH OTHERS
By Pam Janczewski, Director of Program Services
When we think of the word community and what it means to us, I think it’s safe to say that we would all define it a bit differently, or would we?
On a cold January day, I had the pleasure of sitting down with two of the individuals we support at our Stone Creek Apartments program, Anne and Kris. I asked them to share with me what community meant to them, how they would define their community. We talked about their friends at their apartment program and places of work, their families, and connections they have in the community in which they live. I heard stories about recent travels Anne had with her family to celebrate her 70th birthday in The Bahamas and how special that time was for her. Kris shared about her connection to her volunteer, Brooke, and Brooke’s children who spend time with Kris. Both shared about their love for Special Olympics, Hammer Travel trips, and participating in religious practices.
One thing that stood out to me was how important their peers and staff are to them. I believe the work we do at Hammer & NER is significant but when the individuals define their community as one that includes the people they share their lives with, their staff and peers, it really validates the importance of the work our staff do and how this living style works so well for many different reasons. Even if they may not like someone else in the apartment program, they still feel everyone is there for each other. Kris shared that, “Lots of people have my back and I have theirs.” She talked about having good support systems in all areas of her life and how important that is for her as someone who lives with disabilities.
As I reflect on that conversation and think about how I would define community, sure there are some differences but all in all, community is about the people you enjoy spending time with, where you live, who you live with, and others who are important to
you. Anne and Kris have different lived experiences than I do, but at the end of the day we all want to spend time with the people who are important to us and enjoy the company of our co-workers, neighbors, friends, and family. My community may physically be different than Anne’s or Kris’s but in many other ways, our individual communities fulfill a special part of our lives.
Kris and Brooke enjoy their time together
Anne (third from right) with members of her extended family in The Bahamas
EMPOWERING THE HEART & SOUL FAITH COMMUNITIES PROVIDE SPIRITUAL NOURISHMENT
By Jennifer L. Hipple and Joe Cullen, Communication Specialists
Spirituality can help people with disabilities feel a sense of belonging, purpose, and comfort and can support them during difficult times. Here we share the stories of ministries that have created safe and welcoming faith communities for those with intellectual and other disabilities to receive spiritual nourishment and express what is in their hearts while being in community with others and feeling connected to something larger than themselves.
People of Praise and The King’s Community
For 45 years, Pastor Don Anderson’s Christ for People with Developmental Disabilities ministry brought spiritual nourishment to people in a way that was specially designed for them. Pastor Don formerly worked at Hammer Residences as a residential counselor in the dorms and later worked as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). Over the years, he developed an interest in the ministry and became an ordained minister. He began the Christ for People ministry in 1979 to share the love of God with people with disabilities across the Twin Cities.
Pastor Don held weekly church services in Wayzata and Anoka, which dozens of people from Hammer Residences attended. They felt at home here. It was a place of belonging.
Emily Robillard, the Lead DSP at our Gardner home, felt called to help lead the Wayzata community, known as “King’s Community” which holds services on Tuesday nights at Westgate Church in Plymouth, but is managed by Woodridge Church. Both churches welcome 60-70 people each week.
from our
When Pastor Don retired in 2024, Maggie StarrKnox (another former Hammer Residences staff), stepped up to help lead the Anoka community, which is known as “People of Praise” and holds services on Thursday evenings at Anoka Covenant Church.
“This ministry is so important because for the majority of individuals this is their only form of church service,” says Emily. “Nationwide less than 20 percent of churches have any sort of support for individuals and/or their families to attend services. That means that 80 percent of people with developmental and intellectual disabilities do not have access to church and therefore cannot grow in their faith.” The goal is for individuals to feel welcomed, loved, and included. They are encouraged to participate in the service, whether it’s serving communion to their peers or leading prayer time. “I see the excitement every Tuesday when the individuals walk through the doors
Lauren
Gardner home making a pet toy for the King’s Community service project with The Bond Between
King’s Community Nativity Pageant is one of the highlights of the year. Individuals eagerly await an opportunity to be a part of the pageant, including singing in the choir.
(as well as staff, families, and caregivers!). I watch them sing with all their hearts and participate in the lessons,”
Emily says.
Maggie agrees and adds, “The Bible verse that we have in
our mission statement is Samuel 16:7, God sees the heart. To me, it is a reminder to be actively involved in sharing the goodness of God with others. I am always joyfully surprised to be a witness to heartfelt worship to God. That’s love.”
North Heights Church: A Welcoming Community for All
For over 40 years, North Heights Church in Arden Hills has provided a welcoming faith community for individuals with disabilities, including many supported by Hammer & NER.
North Heights provides an inclusive environment through their Special Needs Ministry where worship, fellowship, and spiritual growth are all thriving.
Lori Michaud, the Special Needs Director at North Heights, has worked there for over two decades. Under her leadership, the ministry has grown to provide Sunday morning worship, the “I Am His” Club on Tuesday nights, and a very popular Friday Night Lights social event with more than 100 participants every month. These programs provide people with a chance to attend worship in a welcoming environment that embraces their unique needs.
“We try to accommodate everyone so they can experience faith in a way that is meaningful to them,” Lori says.
Bob Lockwood and his daughter, Dru
Bob Lockwood, a longtime Hammer & NER Board member and dedicated volunteer at North Heights, has witnessed the profound impact of this ministry firsthand. His daughter, Dru, who is supported by Hammer & NER, regularly comes to worship and really looks forward to each Sunday service. His late daughter, Stacy, found a spiritual home at North
Heights, too. “This ministry has meant everything to our family,” Bob says. “It’s a place where everyone is included, no matter their abilities.”
North Heights’ commitment to diversity has not gone unnoticed; they were presented with the Community Partner Award from Hammer & NER. Through all their work, they continue building a faith-filled community where persons of all abilities pray, connect, and grow together.
A LITTLE BIT MORE . . .
Our staff recognize the importance of helping the people they support enjoy opportunities to nurture their faith and religious traditions, be they Christian, Jewish, or Muslim, in ways that are important to them.
Thank you to the members of Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Community in Wayzata for providing the people we support with transportation to their Sunday services for many years and for the inclusive care they provide.
See page 12 to learn how another faith community, Christ Memorial Lutheran Church in Plymouth, has created a sense of community for those we support through volunteering.
AMPLIFYING YOUR VOICE
By Mike Siebenaler, Director of Advocacy
Help Hammer & NER make our communities better places. We invite you to participate in the discussions that affect you and the people you care about every day including those we support, their families, and staff.
Advocacy is the action of sharing information or making requests for funds and services. We are making requests to decision-makers who provide a majority of our funding— elected officials in Congress and the State Legislature.
Picture this scene: It is a warm day, and you are in line at an ice cream parlor. The two customers in front of you receive large scoops that look delicious and a perfect way to make one’s day. When you receive your cone, it is much smaller, so you ask the server why you received less. The response is, “They asked for more, you did not.” Sometimes the complicated world of politics and government resources can be similar: Those who ask for resources are more likely to receive them.
There is always a role for you in advocacy. It is important to remember that advocacy can take many shapes to fit your time and style. Legislators are less likely to cut resources for people they meet regularly or hear from often. The goal of our advocacy efforts is to educate elected officials about Hammer & NER and the need for their support for future services. Some elected officials are seeking ways to cut significant amounts of government budgets. We must let them know we cannot afford cuts to services, staff, and facilities. Any funding cuts could impact services and the ability to keep all our homes open.
We will work with you to find your advocacy voice. Perhaps you enjoy visiting legislators during our annual “Disability Services Day at the Capitol” each spring. If you prefer calling or e-mailing their offices to request a vote for or against an issue that affects you and the people at Hammer & NER, we can work with you to contact them.
Legislators are less likely to cut resources for people they meet regularly or hear from often.
Advocacy is about amplifying your voice. If you want to tell legislators you support something, tell them how you feel. If you explain your situation and ask your community of family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors to get involved, now you have amplified your voice, similar to speaking into a microphone because more people will now hear you better.
As Hammer & NER’s Director of Advocacy, I look forward to working with you to find ways to amplify your voice and get involved in our future. You are unique and so are the ways to be an effective advocate. We will work with you to find your strength in the advocacy world. If you would like to get involved in advocacy, please contact me at: Michael.siebenaler@hammer.org or (612) 772-3825.
Lead DSP Stacy Esposito with Anne, who is supported at our Stone Creek Apartments program, advocate for disabilities services
Meeting with Representative Ethan Cha (District 47B) during Disability Services Day at the Capitol
Annual Report 2024
VOLUNTEERS
— We have the best volunteers! 406 volunteers donated 10,530 hours. They helped at events like Reach for Ralph, our annual Luau, and Family Day Picnic. They also spent one-on-one time with those we support. Per the Independent Sector, the dollar value (MN) of $36.31/hour equates to $382,344.30!
FUNDRAISING
— Thank you to the 1,056 family members, volunteers, community partners, and Hammer & NER employees who contributed $1,849,481 to support our mission.
Thank you to our 266 first-time donors!
Thank you to our 92 monthly donors (including staff)!
We are grateful to all our donors, volunteers, community partners, and staff who help us live our mission each day. Together, we provide people with intellectual and other disabilities the opportunity to live life to its fullest.
COOKS IN THE KITCHEN
—
Our Cooks in the Kitchen volunteers prepared 6,600 meals for our homes!
EMPLOYEES
— Our 450+ full-time and 120+ part-time employees help us live out our mission each day.
PEOPLE SUPPORTED — More than 360 people reside in our homes and apartment programs. Another 1,498 individuals receive Customized Support Services.
IMPROVING LIVES
— Here are a few ways our generous contributors helped improve the lives of those we support:
• Medical needs not covered by insurance for 20 individuals, including appointments, medications, therapy sessions, and more.
• Dental needs not covered by insurance for 60 individuals, including appointments, dental care supplies, crowns, root canals, and more.
• 121 recreational outings, including community registrations and sporting events, which provide lifeenriching experiences.
• New furniture for 10 homes, including reclining chairs and new mattresses.
EDUCATION GRANTS
— Our donors helped provide $31,000 in employee education grants to staff like Amelia.
Annual Report 2024
LETTER FROM THE CEO
If you were to ask me what the key to our organization’s success and longevity is—after all, we have a combined 150+ years of service, I would say it is the way we have remained true to our values.
Valuing those we serve: To meet the changing needs of those we support as they age, we must continue renovating some of our homes to make them more accessible. We must provide our direct support staff with ongoing and specialized training to care for more medical needs. We must grow and expand our access to resources. With that in mind, in 2024 we began exploring a merger with Living Well Disability Services, which specializes in caring for those with higher needs. Our Boards voted to move forward, and we anticipate completing the merger in January 2026.
Valuing our staff: Over the last few years, we have worked hard to provide staff with pay increases to honor their hard work, dedication, and commitment to ongoing training. A year ago, we were concerned about hiring, but we have made great strides. Now it is about how we retain those staff and keep them satisfied. I am proud of the work we’ve done around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. It is one of the values we live out each day. Too many people have experienced discrimination in the workplace. Some of our newer staff tell us they came to Hammer & NER because of our DEI work. It’s about creating opportunity for all. It is a value that flows naturally out of our work with people who live with a disability. We value being intentional about removing barriers so that the same opportunities are open to everyone.
Valuing our leadership: Our Board President, Blaine Stephens, just completed his three-year term. His sensible leadership and steady hand have been critical, most especially as we moved through the COVID-19 pandemic and the merger with NER. Blaine kept his eye on the bigger picture which is important in a Board President. I am thankful for all that he has helped us accomplish. Blaine will continue to serve on the Board. Thank you, Blaine.
SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM
John Estrem – CEO
Kristin Pyka – CFO
Isaiah Allen – Chief Development Officer
Lin Curran – Chief of Operations
Kyle Fitzwater – Chief Human Resources Officer
Sue Walker – Chief Program Officer
Valuing our donors and community partners: Once again, we ended the year meeting our fundraising goals. We continue to be amazed by the generosity and commitment of so many individuals and organizations who support our mission. Thank you for all that you do.
Here’s to another year of working together to help those we support continue to live life to its fullest.
Blessings,
John Estrem, CEO
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2025
Mitch Ringe, President
Michelle Olson, Vice Pesident
Laurie Moga, Secretary
Richard Stoebe, Treasurer
Robert Lockwood
Barb Peterson
Blaine Stephens
Kevin Walli
Nancy Wurm
Somah Yarney
Our spring All-Staff meeting
The guys from our Jersey home and their staff
LETTER FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT
As outgoing Board President, I am proud of all we as a community were able to accomplish in 2024. Here are some highlights:
1. We expanded our Cooks in the Kitchen program to our White Bear Lake office by setting up a fully functional kitchen on the lower level. We’re thankful to all the volunteers who helped this growing program gain traction.
2. We launched the much-anticipated Day Supports Program (also located at our White Bear Lake office building).
3. We continue to make accessibility upgrades to our homes. These updates provide more accessible, safe, and comfortable living environments for the people we support and allow staff to maneuver through our homes more easily.
4. We continue to grow our specialized training programs that are designed to meet the specific needs of each person we support.
5. And of course, our annual Reach for Ralph fundraiser is always a highlight, raising nearly $338,000 last year.
There are so many people and organizations to thank for their ongoing commitment which made all these accomplishments possible. I can’t wait to see what we accomplish in 2025 by working together to support the mission of this wonderful organization.
Blaine Stephens
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS December 31, 2023 and 2024
Numbers provided are unaudited.
Blaine and his wife, Julia, at Reach for Ralph
JESSICA’S STORY
A life in full bloom
By Ted Wentink & Erin Dunn
Our daughter, Jessica, started her Hammer & NER journey 12 years ago when she moved into the Lake Place apartment program. Although she was 26 years old, we were hesitant to have her leave home, but we also wanted Jessica to develop an independent lifestyle with a close circle of friends. We knew that at some point in our lives, we would not be able to provide everything she needed. We wanted to do everything possible to set her up for success.
We remember when we first met with the team at Hammer to discuss whether Jessica was a candidate for their independent living program. They were so supportive and informative. They painted a picture of how Jessica could realize her dream of living independently, while growing her peer group and forging new relationships. A light bulb turned on for us and we were able to envision what this would mean for Jessica.
Now, 12 years later, Jessica has developed an independent lifestyle with a close circle of friends. We have seen our daughter fully bloom. Hammer & NER provides a variety of activities including cardio fitness, bowling, dances, and healthy cooking classes. They also coordinate transportation to and from work and day programs. They track Jessica’s healthcare needs and manage her finances. Each day, everyone gathers in the staff apartment to enjoy dinner and to talk about their day.
OUT
& ABOUT
Jessica, Erin, and Ted enjoy taking family vacations to ranches where they move cattle and participate in ranch rodeos. Jessica is building her riding skills through the We Can Ride therapeutic riding program.
Jessica has told us some of her favorite memories include the Hammer Travel trips. Every year, we go through the brochure, and she picks a trip. Last fall, Jessica did the Colorado Excursion, which included the Georgetown Loop Scenic Railroad ride as well as visiting the Boulder area. The staff that accompany travelers have always been outstanding.
When we think about Hammer & NER, we know that they serve the most important needs for people. They provide homes—real homes. They have provided Jessica with a sense of independence, and everyone has become part of the family. As parents, they have given us peace of mind.
NURTURING A PERSON-CENTERED COMMUNITY
By Lindsey Kvern, Community Life Coordinator
Over time, Hammer & NER’s Community Life activities have truly created a sense of community that keeps growing stronger. These events are designed for everybody: inclusive, welcoming, and all about making sure everyone feels like they belong. People come for all kinds of reasons: to hang out with friends, try something new, or just to get out of the house and have fun.
Our volunteers are a huge part of this community. They genuinely enjoy connecting with the people we serve, and they always show up with positive energy and a smile. Many of them have formed meaningful connections and keep coming back, year after year. For example, one of our Thanksgiving volunteers, Vikki Dodds, has made the event a tradition for herself. “I have volunteered at the Thanksgiving dinner for four years now,” Vikki says. “I really enjoy the people supported at Hammer & NER. I receive much more than I give, plus I get to share in the meal!”
We also see many friendly faces returning each year to volunteer at our Family Day Picnic, including the Smith family, whose loved one, Mike, is supported at our McGlinch home in Wayzata. “The annual Family Day Picnic is a funfilled event you don't want to miss,” says Mike’s sister, Mandi Smith Brandon. “Our family volunteers wherever we are needed, from food serving to the cake walk—you name it. The joy on the faces of everyone is contagious. The event is so heartwarming, gratifying, and loads of fun!”
“The Club” Supports Friendship & Fun
A new and growing part of Hammer & NER’s Community Life program is the Day Supports program (“The Club”) that takes place Monday-Friday at our White Bear Lake
office. The program was developed to help fill in the gap for people who no longer had a day program to go to after COVID-19. The Club provides those we support the opportunity to hang out with their peers, enjoy community outings, and participate in activities that are physically and mentally stimulating. Together, they are experiencing a renewed sense of community.
It's clear that Community Life activities have become more than just events—they're a space where friendships are made, fun is had, and people feel connected. Whether you're attending, volunteering, or just stopping by, there's something special here that keeps everyone coming back.
Helping serve our Thanksgiving meal is part of Vikki’s holiday tradition.
Hollie from our Rollingview home had fun at The Club’s Pizza-Making Party.
The Smith family enjoys volunteering together at our annual Family Day Picnic.
A BLOSSOMING PARTNERSHIP CHRIST MEMORIAL LUTHERAN CHURCH
By Cathy Thoma, Director of Volunteer Resources
Our official partnership with Christ Memorial Lutheran Church in Plymouth may have started in 2023, but its roots trace back to the 1990s when Kim Mesun first heard of Hammer Residences. At the time, Kim was serving as a Minnesota Assistant Attorney General in the Human Services Division and worked with the licensing of Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) homes. At the time, Hammer Residences temporarily operated five ICF group homes, which the state had taken into receivership.
Fast forward to the fall of 2023, the Minneapolis Area Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) as part of its Faith Practices and Neighboring Practices program encouraged congregations to reach out to their neighboring communities. Upon visiting the Hammer & NER website, Kim discovered that one of our homes was near her church. She shared this with fellow parishioners and learned that one of them had a brother, Ben, who lived at our 1st Avenue home. Kim reached out to Hammer & NER to inquire about volunteering opportunities and was connected with Brittney Severson, the Program Manager at 1st Avenue at that time. Hammer & NER was also chosen as Christ Memorial Lutheran’s cause of the month for October 2023 and John Estrem was invited to speak to the congregation. We gratefully received an offering from the church.
When Christmas 2023 arrived, Kim and fellow church members organized a Christmas Caroling party at the house, complete with pizza, an electric piano for playing carols, and gifts! The staff at 1st Avenue took everyone to the Children’s Christmas Service at the church. In February, the Sunday school and childcare center children made
Valentine’s Day cards for the house which were delivered with treats. For Easter, the church hosted a party for 1st Avenue, including sub sandwiches, Easter baskets, and an Easter egg hunt at the church. Out of the 40 plastic eggs filled with treats and coins, only 39 were found—one egg remains hidden!
Last October found the 1st Avenue individuals and staff participating in Trunk or Treat at the church, with games and activities for the church and childcare families. On Thanksgiving Eve, everyone was invited to the church service and the pie social that followed. Christmas saw the church host the Alternative Gift Market, attended by the individuals at 1st Avenue who enjoyed getting their photo taken at the Hammer & NER table with Kim. Once again, we received a donation from the church. Later in December, another pizza and caroling party was held at the 1st Avenue home. The church continues to nurture its relationship with the 1st Avenue community.
In addition to their support for 1st Avenue, Kim, her husband, Craig, and friends have volunteered with Hammer & NER in various capacities, including the Cooks in the Kitchen program, Disability Services Day at the Capitol, our annual Luau, the Baker Park Picnic, and the annual Spring Breakfast. And let’s not forget the cookies they have made for our Community Life parties!
Thank you, Kim, for connecting us with Christ Memorial Lutheran Church. And a heartfelt thank you to the congregation for your unwavering support of Hammer & NER’s mission and to those we support. We are so grateful to have you as part of our community!
Kim and the 1st Avenue guys at the annual Hammer & NER Luau
Kim (left) and the guys at the church’s Alternative Gift Market
FIRST IMPRESSIONS FROM A NEWBIE
By Isaiah Allen, Chief Development Officer
Ijoined Hammer & NER as the Chief Development Officer on January 2. Starting right after New Year’s Day made it feel like I was taking on a big New Year’s Resolution. The role is responsible for leading the fundraising efforts that support our work. I joined the Hammer & NER team as an outsider. I haven’t worked at Hammer & NER in a different role, and my most recent job was with an organization that supported young people from low-income backgrounds in getting into and completing college, not disability services. As an outsider, to do my job effectively I have been learning how everything we do works and supports our mission to provide the people we serve the opportunity to live life to its fullest.
Being that you are likely someone connected with Hammer & NER for a long time, I thought you might appreciate getting the perspective of someone who is encountering Hammer & NER for the first time and digging deep into how it works.
My first observation is that the people who work at Hammer & NER care deeply about the people we serve. Our staff
put their expertise in disability services to work because they care about the people impacted by disabilities. I have been in meetings about building maintenance and nursing services and staff training when one of our homes is being discussed. Without fail, the people who live in that home will be named by staff from memory, not from a roster or list, and fond stories about those people are shared. This is a “people first” organization.
My next observation is we are in a moment that the science of care for people with disabilities is advancing and evolving rapidly. Changes in health care are resulting in longer life expectancies for the people we serve. This has meant that we have had to innovate aging support in how we provide care. Our Program leadership, nurses, and direct support staff are at the forefront of the field, creating new ways to address these new challenges. This is an innovative and responsive organization.
The last observation I’d share (for now) is that Hammer & NER has an incredible culture of generosity. There is a robust staff giving program that enables staff to make donations directly from their paycheck. About a third of the people we serve have a family member who is a donor. Every member of the Board of Directors is a donor. And there are dozens of people who have notified us that they have named Hammer & NER as a beneficiary in their Will. This all requires intentionality, care, and commitment to our mission. As a newbie to Hammer & NER, I’m excited to learn more about all these incredible things about my new workplace and my new coworkers.
Isaiah and his children
CONSECUTIVE DONORS STAND THE TEST OF TIME
By Ginger Venable, Development, Event & Project Manager
We are thankful for the 361 people who have donated to Hammer & NER for five consecutive years or more! This dedicated community is a partner in our mission to provide the people we serve with the opportunity to live life to its fullest. Their ongoing investment demonstrates their trust in our work to provide quality care through trusted staff in safe and accessible homes.
Join our community of supportive partners. It’s a powerful way to demonstrate your commitment to the people we serve and their caregivers.
Jo Ann Koltes, pictured here with her family (Terry, JoAnn, Chris, Liz, Joe), has been volunteering and donating to Hammer & NER for more than 45 consecutive years. Her daughter, Liz, joined our community in 1978, and her entire family has been supporting us ever since. In addition, they all volunteer in wonderful ways. Jo Ann makes birthday and sympathy cards for our staff to use. Jo Ann says “I donate every year because I know my funds are needed and used wisely to support my daughter. I have watched the organization evolve from dorms in Wayzata to 68 locations.”
25+ Years
Marshall and Dru Anderson
Argall/Hibbs Foundation
John and Nancy Berg
Steve and Geri Bloomer
Alfred G Colling
Richard and Judith Corson
Edward and Sherry Ann Dayton
Bob and Terrisa Fisher
Patricia A Fleming
Rosemary and Lawrence Gleason
Gary and Kathleen Hadley
Donald and Ida Hanna
Pat Houston
Jo Ann Koltes
Wally Lentz and Susan Nixon
Mithun Family Foundation
Jean and Tim+ Nelson
Elizabeth and Bruce Pankonin
Mary Patterson
Sharon L. Pipes
Joe and Kathy Reis
Edwin and Christina Ritchie
Mark and Kathy Wallraff
20+ Years
Joel and Mary Amundson
Janet and David Anderson
Lisbeth and Mark Armstrong
Elaine and Robert Bache
Leigh Bailey and Freda Marver
John and Sheila Barbetta
Katie and Richard Barrett
Joan Boerschinger
Dan and Kate Bottiger
Michael Bryant
Tomeko Champion-Patrick
Pauline+ and John+ Coleman
David and Debra Czech
Joe and Sondra Dahmer
Judith Davidson
Lisa and Scott Dongoske
Tim Eshelman
Jean and Bill Gjetson
Sue and Ilja Gregor
Susan Argall Haas and Brian Haas
Kim Hansen and Mickey Joldzic
Patty and Ben Hastings
Mary Hilgert
Mary Marquretta Hill
Linda and Kenneth Holmen
Jan Hopper
Alan and Diane Horner
Momo J. Johnson
Sherri and Steve Johnson
Margaret and Roger Jones
Dan H. Klein
Jeffrey and Susan Lambert
Jim Landt and Judy Grochon
Kevin McLaughlin
Mary Metzler and Elliott Mills
Michelle and Steve Olson
Mary and Michael Ongstad
Susan and Michael Oreck
Marion Owens
Bruce and Merry Jo Parker
Norm and Joan Purrington
Mary and Robert Putnam
Rachel Revels
William and Joyce Sexton
Jane and Don Shaffer
Charles and Ellen Swanson
Barbara J. Tennessen
Michael and Barbara Tenney
Kevin Borer and Ellen
Timmerman-Borer
Sue and Kim Walker
Julie Wesley-Wong and Wymond Wong
Mary Ann and John Wolters
15 + Years
Bob and Colleen Anderson
Lawrence and JoAnn Barbetta
Tom and Angela Blanchette
Conrad and Mary Bloomquist
Aaron Briggs
Suzanne and Bill Christianson
Rosemary Fish
Phyllis and Rich Genest-Stein
Kay H. Glen
Donna Gorski
Martha and Edward Gschneidner
Don and Heidi Haberman
Ronald L. Haskvitz
Robert and Kathy Hendrickson
Sharon and Sandy Hindahl
John and Cindy Hitt
Hugh and Julie Kirsch
Kathie Levy
Robert Lockwood
Mary K. Lund
Darlene and Thomas McCarthy
Taya Mergott
John and Maryann Merideth
Barry and Mary Jo Miller
Patty and Mike Molden
Matt and Marty Mueller
Denny and Mary Newell
Allan and Vicki Olson
Maima Parker
Susan and Greg Pfeiffer
Christine Poppe
Dan and Katherine Poppe
Jeanne S. Rouch
Corrine Schmidt
Rita Schofield
Cari and Jeff Sheley
Thomas and Lee Ann Silver
Renee E Solinger-Audette
Karl and Laurie Stoltenberg
Chris M. Strande
Peggy Swanson
Drs. Mary and Jan Tanghe
Richard and Nancy Timp
Barbara Tuckner
John W. Tulloch
William Walsh
Nonie Warner
Michael Wesley
Paul and Janice Wicklund
Gary and Mary Williams
Bill and Bonnie Young
Dennis Zelee
10 + Years
Tom and Ann Althauser
Bruce and Celeste Amlicke
Mark and Carolyn Bauer
Darrell and Kenwyn Beckstrom
Angela and George Bernhardt
Peter and Cindi Boynton
Barbara and Bill Brandt
Barry and Debbie Carlson
Sandra C. Carlson
Gerald M. Caruso, Jr.
Sarah Caruso and Dick Hurrelbrink
Paul and Mary Cederberg
Glenda Condon
Patrick Conry
Conan and Amy Crum
Patrice and James Dahl
Jim and Brenda Damiani
Carol and George Daum
Gerry and Vicki Degner
Louis Doelz
Tom and Char Dunaski
Ashley Emerson
Jim and Susan Erickson
John Estrem
Christina Fair
Tom Fitzpatrick and Mary Ebnet
Peter Flint and Jan Symchych
Rita Fox
Fred C. and Katherine B.
Andersen Foundation
Rebecca and Ron Furnival
Debra and Jake Gjoraas
Colleen Glennon
Carol Gottschalk
Sharon Green
Lisa and John Greenberg
Debby Grote
Steve and Jean Guenther
Devin and Dee Harrington
Joseph and Shelly Hoesley
Ronald E. Hovda
Kent and Marylyn Howe
Ron and Lori Hume
Vicki Jackman
Richard and Kathleen Jackson
Brian Johnson
Steve and Teresa Kastendieck
Barbara and David Kleist
Vicki Klima
Jane Klosterman
Joe and Gina Koltes
Gregg and Stephanie Larsen
Kurt and Constance Larson
Sheila and Peter Lind
Michael and Karen Linn
Joan Loer
Robert and Michele Luke
Mary Lydon and Chuck Donkers
Philip and Barbara MacNeill
Ann and Robert Martinka
John and Molly McDonald
McGlynn Family Foundation
Preston and Betsy McMillan
Fredrick and Christine Meyer
Gail Munsell
Kevan and Laurie Nitzberg
Katherine Noon
Richard M. and Katharine Olson
Mark Osmanski
Clifford and Mary Lou Otten
Jill Peters
Father Don Piche
Rae I. Carlson Trust
Allen and LaVonne Ribbe
Kate and Jerry Roehl
Tom and Diane Russell
Thomas Russeth
Colleen Ryan and Tom Merz
Kent and Traci Scholten
Audrey A. Schultz
Paul Schultz
Richard M. Schulze Family
Foundation
Allison and Phillip Shatzman
Timothy and Cheryl Solinger
Tom and Pam Spitznagle
Cathy and Morgan Thoma
Linda and Bob Tomaschko
Jackie Ulrich
Sherry Underdahl
Diana Vang
Ginger and Tom Venable
Ronald and Shirley Vescio
Pete and Carolyn Wahtera
Thomas and Rose Winkels
5 + Years
James and Patricia Amlicke
Bruce and Debbie Anderson
David and Sue Astin
John and Patricia Bailey
David and Jean Baumeister
Jim and Sandy Beckman
Thomas P. Bedard
Ken Bence
Jeff and Widdy Bird
Scott Bocklund and Peggy HillBocklund
Beth and Scott Bouman
David Brand
Barbara and Larry Brauch
Polly and Kurt Brungardt / Scott
Herman Family
Diane Bruns
Leo Byron
Paul Byron
Charles and Deb Carlson
Judy Carlson
Marlan and Janis Carlson
Jake Christensen
Mike and Vanessa Conner
Joe and Tahni Cullen
Rob and Susan Dahlin
Christine Daniel
Belle Davenport
Peg Peck and Gary Krainak started donating when their son, Sam, moved into his Hammer & NER home in 2019. Peg says “We happily contribute to Hammer & NER every year to support the important work provided by the wonderful staff at Vicksburg Village as well as the amazing staff at the offices. We are so grateful to have found Hammer & NER. Sam has gained confidence and pride in his ability to live independently. We all know the saying ‘it takes a village to raise a child.’ Hammer & NER is a very caring and safe village for our family.”
Catherine DeCelles
Kenneth and Rita Dedeker
Julie and Stephen Deuth
Cal and Katy Dirks
Lynne and Bill Dolan
Paul and Charlotte Donahue
Margaret and Tim Dornfeld
Sharla and Blake Duerre
Wayne Duerschmidt
Erin Dunn and Ted Wentink
Marlene and Daniel Ebert
Jill Eisenberg
George Emerson
Gene and Cindy Farrell
Dana Fox
David Freeman and Patricia
O’Rourke Freeman
Tom and Joan Freidel
Sally Fritze
John and Jean Goad
Alex and Samantha Greene
Jessica Hammer
Mark and Lynn Hansen
Greg and Kathy Hanson
Norm and Rochelle Hart
Jenna Haskvitz
Tim and Amy Haugen
Bill and Marie Heiland
Jo Ann M. Henricksen
Mark and Nancy Hirschfeld
David and Linda Holzinger
Sarah Homuth-Goar
Elizabeth and Jim Hoskyn
Gena and Joe Janetka
Constance Jennison
Cheryl and James Johnson
Pat and Clifford Johnson
Theresa and Timothy Johnston
Lane and Patty Jorgensen
Adam Kastendieck
Michael and Maureen Kayser
Chip and Debbie Kemppainen
Jim and Betty Klande
Christopher and Peggy Klug
Jill Kohler
Gary Krainak and Margaret Peck
Paula Krippner
Joe Kukla
Terrance and Mary Ann Kukla
Leah Kuypers
Cynthia Laurent
Karen Lieberman
Phil and Barb Lindblad
Steve Lindblad
Elaine Loeffler
Mark and Linda Lucke
Bill Luther and Janet Robert
Jeff and Caren Martin
William Mbu
April McClellan- Dunning
Tom Medcalf
Rick and Jeanne Moe
Laurie and Doug Moga
Steve and Debbie Morelan
Nancy and Mike Nafziger
Bhuvana Nandakumar and Suresh Krishna
Gary and Linda Nelson
Jennifer Nelson
Mike and Karen Nelson
Paul and Stella Nelson
Ed and Mary Oberg
John and Gigi Ossanna
Michael Patterson and Deborah Holman
John and Vicki Pink
Laura and Gary Poulsen
Tina Provetto
Kristin and Duane Pyka
Sharon and Julie Reinert
Mitch and Judi Marie Ringe
Louis Robards and Mary Coleman
Cathy Rose
Alice Sanders
Steve and Tami Schroll
Nancy Schwalen
Tracy Seymour
James and Margie Sillery
Gary and Shirley Smith
Pete and Lois Stadick
Blaine and Julia Stephens
Katherine Steward
Victor Sugumar and Anita
Victor
Marilyn Sullivan
Elaine and Mark Taggatz
Thomas and Constance Tart
Donald and Rita Tasto
Ben Taylor and Kate Kelly
Denine Taylor
Hannah and Dean Thibodeau
Amanda and Aaron Trnka
Vicki L Schlechter Supplemental
Needs Trust
Samantha Vokaty
Edward and Teresa Walker
Kevin Walli and Tani Maruyama
Lisa Walsak
Jim and Sandy Warner Jr.
John Williams
Jackie Wulf
Jennifer Young
Les and Mary Anne Young
Mark and Wendy Yungner
Christine Zimonick
OLD FRIENDS ARE AMONG THE BEST FRIENDS LONGTIME COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP HOLDS RICH TRADITION
By Ginger Venable, Development, Event & Project Manager
If you are fortunate enough to have a friend you have known for 30, 40, 50 years or more, you know what a special gift you have. You have weathered challenges and changes together, celebrated one another’s successes, and learned from each other. Such is the case for our long-time partnership with the folks of the Lions Club of Wayzata.
We honestly don’t know when the relationship started, but both organizations have been an integral part of Wayzata for over 70 years. When you have mission-minded organizations in the same small, but growing community, they are bound to connect. The mission of the international Lions Club is to improve health and wellbeing, strengthen communities, and support those in need through humanitarian service and grants that impact lives. Our shared values have led to a long and valued relationship.
“Being a part of a community like the Lions of Wayzata and helping local organizations like Hammer & NER is good for the soul,” says Tim Anderson, President of the Lions Club of Wayzata.
Since 1986, this humble group of community members has donated annually to Hammer & NER for a total of $58,000. Each year, on the last Saturday in February, the Lions organize a waffle breakfast fundraiser, open to the community, at St. Bart’s Catholic Church in Wayzata. They invite the people we support to attend as their guests. It has become a favorite event for many! Some of the proceeds benefit Hammer & NER. The community can also support the mission of the Lions Club by purchasing pull tabs at the Wayzata Muni.
Thank you to the Lions Club of Wayzata for everything you do for the people we support and our larger community. We look forward to many more years together!
Alex, supported at our Carlson home, with his one-on-one volunteer, Tom Venable
In addition to Wayzata, the Lions Clubs of Plymouth, Hamel, Maple Grove, and White Bear Lake generously support our mission.
Lauren and Dawn, from our Gardner home, enjoyed the waffle breakfast. Behind them are (from left) Wayzata Lion’s Club members Don Marks, Pat Moran, Tim Anderson, and George Jaques, joined by Isaiah Allen, Hammer & NER’s Chief Development Officer.
Being a part of a community like the Lions Club of Wayzata and helping local organizations like Hammer & NER is good for the soul.
— Tim Anderson, President
HAMMER & NER HERITAGE SOCIETY
Thank you to these incredible individuals who make a lasting impact by including Hammer & NER in their estate plans. It can be as easy as designating us as a beneficiary on your retirement account or life insurance plans to leave your lasting footprint for generations to come.
*Leonard + and Mary + Aase
Lisa M. Anderson
Anonymous
Steven Argall Trust
*Margaret + and James + Argall
Lisbeth and Mark Armstrong
David and Sue Astin
*Dorothy A. Bailey +
Leigh Bailey and Freda Marver
*Rae + and Albin + Carlson
Gerald M Caruso, Jr.
Richard and Judith Corson
Carol A. Curoe
Judith and Kent + Davidson
Cal and Katy Dirks
Lisa and Scott Dongoske
John Estrem
Rosemary and Marvin + Fish
Shirley (Rip) and Ted + Freeman
Rebecca and Ron Furnival
Jean and Bill Gjetson
Carol Gottschalk
Don and Heidi Haberman
*Donald A. Hartmann +
*Robert B Hill + Estate
*Claire + and Don + Hinrichs
Robert and Sharon Hoffman
Linda and Kenneth Holmen
Dean Hongerholt Trust
*Beulah + and Ingvald + Hongerholt
Patricia and Michael + Houston
*Mary Ann + and Jack + Huddleston
Steve and Teresa Kastendieck
Hugh and Julie Kirsch
Christopher and Peggy Klug
Paul and Sally Kraske
Wayne Krippner Trust
*Bill + and Joan + Krippner
Laura Langer
Robert and Audrey + Lockwood
Robert and Michele Luke
Lewis + and Jill Mithun
Jean and Tim + Nelson
Denny and Mary Newell
Bruce and Merry Jo Parker
*Nino + and Susan Pedrelli
Steven and Paula Peterson
Father Don Piche
Joan and Norm Purrington
*Robert M. Reed + Trust
*Allen and LaVonne Ribbe
Kent and Traci Scholten
*Clara Schonlau +
Elaine and Marshall + Siegel
Don and Annie Smithmier
Deloris + and Wallace + Solseth
*Luverne Steffel Estate +
Ellen Timmerman-Borer and Kevin Borer
*The Estate of Dale + and
Elaine + Timmers
Barbara Tuckner
*Grace + and Paul + Voetmann
Pete and Carolyn Wahtera
*Mary Wesley +
*Karole Whipps +
For the Argall family, planned giving is a generational activity. Seeing the value of their son Steve’s care, Jim and Margaret Argall decided years ago to generously include Hammer & NER in their estate plans. Now their daughter, Susan (Argall) Haas, is continuing that legacy.
* = Legacy gift received + = Deceased Red = New to the Society
To learn more about ways you can invest in tomorrow, contact Major Gifts Officer David Duxbury at 952-345-8519 or David.duxbury@hammer.org.
“Steve moved to Hammer Residences in 1986,” Susan says. “That’s the year he graduated from high school and transitioned to his first Hammer home. Over the years, as we continued to learn more about Hammer & NER and how great a fit it was for Steve, we wanted to make sure this was going to be possible for other families. Planned giving is essential for an organization like Hammer & NER. In fact, if it wasn’t for them, I don’t know where Steve would be. At the end of the day, Hammer & NER is Steve’s family. Planned giving is a way of showing thanks.”
Susan and her brother, Steve
COMMUNITY EMPLOYMENT HELPS CREATE A SENSE OF BELONGING
By Jerry LeVasseur, Director of Program Services
Finding and maintaining a job brings satisfaction, purpose, and a social outlet for many. Here are a few stories of people who greatly enjoy their jobs and whose contributions and presence are appreciated by their employers.
Laura B. (City of New Brighton - Eagles Nest) Laura, from our Currie home, says she has “always had an interest in helping others, especially kids.” A year ago, she started the employment discovery process at TSE, Inc. Laura’s interest and experience at a church day care as well as her experience through her school transition program shined through. Supported by her job coach, she was hired as a Building Assistant with the City of New Brighton at the Eagles Nest Indoor Playground. Laura helps provide a fun and safe play environment for kids visiting the Community Center. Her story was recently spotlighted in TSE’s Insights newsletter. Along with recently increasing her work hours, Laura received a raise!
Sara O. (Kowalski’s and Once Upon A Child) Two days per week you can find smiling and energetic Sara from Bailey Ridge at Kowalski’s in Woodbury, where she works as a Courtesy Associate. Sara also works one day per week at Once Upon A Child as an Employee Associate. Sara worked with Kaposia to explore employment and landed these jobs in February and September 2024. She enjoys chatting with customers and carrying groceries for them. At Kowalski’s, Sara is learning her role and looks forward to gaining more skills such as bagging and the feared cash register. She likes being part of a team.
Joe P. (Messerli & Kramer) For the past 17+ years, Joe, from our Stone Creek Apartments has been employed with Messerli & Kramer Law Firm as an Office Clerk. Joe has been supported by Lifeworks, which helped him land this job and provides a weekly check-in. His favorite role is delivering mail to all the offices as it provides daily interaction with his peers. Joe works in the mailroom with a desk and computer and receives regular email updates and requests to pick up or deliver important documents. He has a great relationship with his employer and co-workers and enjoys special events such as holiday parties and last summer’s Hawaiian Day.
Wade U. (Pet Crossing Animal Hospital) According to Wade, from our Ridgeview home, he has worked at PCAH for five years. Wade helps ensure the hospital is clean for pet patients and clinical staff. He enjoys his job because he is working with friends, and everyone is nice to him. Oh, another perk is getting to pet some of the animals.
Anna E. (Yellow Brick Road Day Care) When Anna moved into our Renew Apartments in July 2023, she was eager to start working again. Anchored by her past work experiences in a school cafeteria and as a Teacher’s Aide at a Watertown day care and with her mother’s support, she applied, interviewed, and was hired as a Teacher’s Aide at Yellow Brick Road Day Care. Anna works in the Infant Room helping care for up to four infants and provides float coverage in other rooms. Anna states that to be a good Teacher’s Aide she must be calm and patient. She is also certified in CPR/First Aid and participates in monthly staff meetings. “This is the best job ever,” Anna says. “It feels like I belong.”
Sara O.
Laura B.
Joe P.
A STEP TOWARD FAIR WAGES FOR ALL WORKERS
THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR’S PROPOSED ELIMINATION OF THE 14(C) SUBMINIMUM WAGE CERTIFICATE
By Jerry LeVasseur, Director of Program Services
In a significant move aimed at promoting equality in the workforce, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has proposed the elimination of the 14(c) subminimum wage certificate. This proposal, if enacted, would mark a pivotal change in labor laws, ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive the same minimum wage as their non-disabled counterparts. Let’s explore the implications, history, and potential outcomes of this landmark proposal.
Understanding the 14(c) Subminimum Wage Certificate
The 14(c) subminimum wage certificate, part of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) of 1938, allows employers to pay individuals with disabilities below the federal minimum wage. This aims to encourage employment for those with severe disabilities. Employers, mainly day programs and nonprofits, offer jobs to those facing significant employment barriers. Subminimum wages must be reviewed and adjusted periodically; hourly worker productivity is reassessed every six months, and a new prevailing wage survey is conducted annually. As of January 1, 2025, there are 56 14(c) certificate holders in Minnesota and all but one is considered a Community Rehabilitation Program (aka Day Support provider).
The Rationale and Criticism
While well-intentioned, the 14(c) certificate has been subject to considerable criticism over the years. Advocates for disability rights argue that it perpetuates a system of economic inequality and stigmatization. By allowing employers to pay less than the minimum wage, the provision undervalues the contributions of workers with disabilities and reinforces societal prejudices. Critics also state that such wage disparities hinder the financial independence and overall quality of life of disabled workers.
Advocates for disability rights argue that (the 14(c) certificate) perpetuates a system of economic inequality and stigmatization.
Employers may struggle to sustain their operations without the financial flexibility provided by the 14(c) certificate. To address these concerns, the DOL and other stakeholders
Sadie, supported at our Sumac home, loves working with animals through her job with eQuality.
may need to develop comprehensive support systems, including job training, placement services, and financial incentives for employers to hire and retain disabled workers at competitive wages. Many Day Support providers have already reduced usage or eliminated their certificate. By seeking state and federal grants and creating dynamic employment development and support services these providers have created a successful pathway to competitive, community-based employment.
The Path Forward
The proposal to eliminate the 14(c) subminimum wage certificate represents a crucial step toward a more equitable labor market. It reflects a growing recognition of the value and potential of all workers, regardless of their abilities. As the DOL moves forward with this proposal, it will be essential to engage with a broad range of stakeholders, including disability advocates, employers, and policymakers, to ensure a smooth and successful transition.
Systemic changes are already occurring throughout Minnesota and within the Hammer & NER community. Many people we support are successfully employed and even more are taking that next step on their employment journeys, while discovering their own talents. In fact, within our residential program, approximately 90 people served are successfully employed and earning competitive wages in community businesses.
Hammer & NER
1909 Wayzata Blvd.
Wayzata, MN 55391
952-473-1261
Hammer.org
PLEASE JOIN US!
REACH FOR RALPH
ANNUAL BENEFIT FOR HAMMER & NER
Thursday, June 26
5:00 – 9:00 PM
The Metropolitan Ballroom 5418 Wayzata Blvd, Golden Valley
Purchase tickets online at Hammer.org
Please join us for our annual summer fundraiser.
Tickets on sale now at Hammer.org
ADDITIONAL WAYS TO HELP:
Become a sponsor!
Donate to our auction. Please contact Ginger.Venable@Hammer.org with questions.
NEW VENUE! The newly remodeled Metropolitan Ballroom in Golden Valley is just off Highway 394 and Highway 100 and has lots of free parking. Please note: Some tables in the dining area are only accessible by a short staircase. If you, or anyone in your party, are unable to take stairs, please indicate this on your registration.
This event will showcase Journeys of Courage, inspirational stories showing how exceptional, personcentered care can save and transform lives.
Your support helps the people we support, their families, and the communities we hold dear.
TICKETS