Hammer Residences Volunteer Brochure

Volunteer Opportunities

Hammer is a non-profit organization that supports individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

For more information contact Cathy Thoma at 952-345-8554 or cthoma@hammer.org.

Hammer.org

We invite you to help us make a difference by volunteering.

You can make a difference Helping someone reach his or her individual goals and dreams is an amazing gift you can give as a Hammer volunteer. You will be helping adults with developmental disabilities experience life to its fullest.

Hammer homes and apartments are located in several cities across the West Metro, including Crystal, Eden Prairie, Edina, Golden Valley, Maple Grove, Minnetonka, New Hope, Plymouth, St. Louis Park, and Wayzata.

We maintain a robust team of volunteers by offering a variety of activities for both individuals and groups. Whether you are a companion, special events volunteer, or exercise partner, the gift of your time and talent can be life changing.

Benefits of volunteering include: • Making a positive impact in the life of a person with a developmental disability • Meeting new people and making fun memories • Building career skills that will enhance your resume and portfolio • Obtaining letters of reference for school and job applications We would like to welcome you into our group of caring and committed volunteers. To learn more, please contact Cathy Thoma at 952-345-8554 or cthoma@hammer.org.

“The conversations, smiles and interactions you have with the individuals and staff will have a profound effect on you. I always look forward to our visits with Hammer and after each visit can’t wait for the next one.”

–Renee Farrow 2

Group Activities Special Events

Annual Spring Breakfast May Hammer’s annual celebration and recognition event. Ten volunteers are needed for check-in and set-up. The event will be held at the Sheraton Minneapolis West Hotel next to the Ridgedale Center.

Reach for Ralph June Hammer’s annual fundraiser.

One hundred volunteers are needed to help in several areas including set-up, check-in, silent auction, live auction, and check-out. This year the event will be held at the DoubleTree Park Place.

Family Day Picnic September Our annual picnic for those we serve and their families.

One hundred volunteers are needed to help set-up, work at the carnival/game stations, food stations, and to break down at the end of the day.

The event is held at our Central Office in Wayzata.

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Haunted House October Each October volunteers are needed to help create our Haunted House. Located at the Central Office, volunteers get to set-up, dress up, and “haunt� our guests. The Haunted House is created by and for those we serve.

Fall Yard Clean-up October We utilize volunteers to rake and bag leaves at our various residences. The week of clean-up includes Make a Difference Day, which is in October.

Adopt-a-House This is a unique opportunity for your organization to host a family fun night, such as pizza and a movie, game night, or an arts and crafts night in one of the Hammer homes. The volunteers from your organization can be the same people, or can rotate based on your schedules.

Visit the home once a quarter or more frequently, if desired.

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Individual Opportunities Direct Service Volunteer Many of those we serve are looking for a volunteer to be a friend who will participate in a variety of activities with them.

This will vary depending on the individual, but can include going out for coffee, attending sports events, watching movies, playing sports or video games, shopping and engaging in conversation.

If you are interested in this rewarding experience, we ask that you commit to at least a once a month visit for a year.

Wellness/Exercise Partner Exercise is more fun when you have a buddy joining you. If you would like to help those we serve get and stay in shape, this opportunity is for you. This activity also requires a once a month commitment for a year.

Volunteer Photographers Love taking photos of happy people and fun events? We are looking for a photography volunteer to collaborate with Hammer’s Communication Department and those we serve by taking high-resolution photos at our special events.

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Central Office Volunteers There are a variety of needs at the Central Office. We are looking for individuals that have clerical and office support skills, financial and accounting backgrounds or writing skills.

Pet Therapy Volunteers You and your dog can provide companionship to our petloving individuals who would enjoy a visit. Activities could include home visits, spending time together at a dog park, or going for walks with your pet.

Pets must have a ‘Good Canine’ certificate.

Community Life Share your interests and talents with us! We have ongoing and special events throughout the year that we organize for the individuals we support at Hammer. We focus on fitness, nutrition and personal wellness.

Volunteers can lead walking groups, teach healthy cooking classes, or assist in other fun activities. Have an idea or a talent to share? Let us know!

If you would like more information on Hammer, please visit our website at hammer.org and our Facebook page at facebook.com/HammerMN.

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Hammer Travel Volunteer Are you looking to volunteer with people with disabilities in Minnesota and beyond? Would you like to assist others to experience the joys of travel? If so, please join our team!

All travel-related expenses are paid for and you will help create memories that will last a lifetime.

Volunteers are needed to accompany our travelers on their vacation and provide supports they need to enhance their travel experience.

Volunteers assist Hammer Travel staff with transportation, trip activities, social and community interactions, finances, medication administration, self-care and other duties as-needed.

Volunteer Qualifications include: -Experience working with individuals with disabilities preferred, but we can provide training -Valid driver’s license -Live within two hours of the Minneapolis/St. Paul area (exceptions can be made if you live in Minnesota) -Ability to lift 35 pounds If you would like to see the full Hammer Travel calendar, visit Hammertravel.org/destination.

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Helping people with developmental and intellectual disabilities live life to its fullest!