GIFTS RECEIVED IN MEMORY OF BILL BIEBER ALIGHT Franz and Karen Altpeter ATEK Companies William and Jill Bartel Jim Beckmann John Brewer Brad Briggs Jeannie Burns Buckner John Budd Chuck and Mary Carlsen Shari Case Paul and Mary Cederberg Bruce and Diane Diiro Sara Downs John Dupont
The Fabie Family Brad Frank The Gage Family Foundation Skip and Char Gjersdal Suzanne and David Goodwin Joseph Green and Trudi Anderson Dwight Hammermeister Michal and Jane Hanson Larry Hendrickson and Barbara Forster David Hey and Barbara Roy Pat Humphrey Sheila Hunter Delmont Johnson
Judith and Larry Johnson David Kauppi Duncan and Anne Lee Patrick Lewis Paul and Janice Lindbloom James and Carol Lynum Harvey Mackay Donna Moores Danielle Myers Tamara Nelson David and Linda Newton Vance and Darin Opperman Mark and Robin Osmanski Dennis Plain Paul Plitzuweit
Kevin Pollman Kathryn M Ramstad Gary and Susan Rappaport Allen and LaVonne Ribbe Louis Robards and Mary Coleman Samuel Rosen Colleen Ryan Ted Schmitz Linda Schultz Craig and Maureen Shaver Mitchell and Elva Sill William and Kathleen Wanner Brooke Welch David and Page Wigren
DONORS SINCE 2015 TO BILL BIEBER’S ANNUAL APPEAL Philip Ahern Pete + and Margie + Ankeny John and Patricia Bailey Raymond and Mary Lou Barton John Bean Andrew Bennett Ted Bigos Jeff and Widdy Bird Steve and Gayle Brehm Ward and Kris Brehm Dick and Sandra Brown Greg and Lisa Buck John and Carol Busacker Al and Toni Cady Chuck and Mary Carlsen Paul and Mary Cederberg Michael and Ann Ciresi Richard and Judith Corson Bob and Joan Cummins Thomas A. Cusick Edward and Sherry Ann Dayton Frank and Sue Dosal Dennis and Megan Doyle Patrick Ferguson Bob and Terrisa Fisher Paul and Mary Freeman Stanley and Luella Goldberg Suzanne and David Goodwin Samuel Hanson L.H. Hendrickson Company Marge Heegaard Roger and Cheryl Ann Heegaard Rob and Signe Hensel David Hey and Barbara Roy William Hodder John and Colleen Hooley Alan and Diane Horner James and Sally Hornig Hutchins Family Foundation Eric Janus and Carolyn Chalmers Mark and Laurie Jeter Franz and Cynthia Jevne Bradley A. Johnson
Dale and Janice Johnson Barbara Koch Laurence LeJeune + Anthony Leuthold Patrick Lewis Stephen and Judy Lewis Paul and Janice Lindbloom Andrew and Jennifer Matysik Kerri and Travis McAfoos John and Kelly McCoy Bob and Polly McCrea Michael and Julie McGlynn Dave and Debbie Meyer Fredrick and Christine Meyer John Meyer Paul and Christine Meyer Tom and Kathy Miller Robert Moor Patty and David Murphy Chip and Jani + Norris David Norris Michael O’Connell and Susan Hayes Kathy O’Connor + Dan and Mary O’Keefe Mark and Robin Osmanski John and Gigi Ossanna The Honorable Alan C. Page Gregory Page and Kathleen Blatz Kay Phillips and Jill Mortensen Abe Quiring Tom and Mollie Raih James and Elizabeth Ramsland Kathryn M Ramstad Gary and Susan Rappaport Kevin and Denise Reilly Ted and Mary Rogers Kim and Bill Rose Colleen Ryan Dudley and Marti Ryan Daniel Schweitzer William and Joyce Sexton
“When I first arrived at Hammer, Bill was one of the first people to reach out to me. He quickly became a friend, mentor, and advisor. He had a powerful desire to see me, and Hammer, be the best, to ensure our future of supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.” — John Estrem, CEO, with Bill and Jim
Sill Family Fund Mitchell and Elva Sill Mike and Pam Sime Douglas and Kathryn Smith George Soule Dean and Ruth Spatz Howard and Tillie Stacker Ben and Mary Stephens Sullivan Family Fund Austin and Marti Sullivan Thomas and Jeanne Sween TCF Foundation
Bill and Jill Toles Tim and Patricia Tucker Richard and Lynn Voelbel Whitney Foundation Gary and Vicki Wyard + = Deceased
Discoveries | 21
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 accounts or life insurance plans to leave your lasting footprint for generations to come. To learn more, please contact Angela Bernhardt at Bernhardt@Hammer.org or 952-345-8519. Anonymous (7) *Leonard+ and Mary+ Aase Lisa M. Anderson *Margaret+ and James+ Argall Steven Argall Trust Lisbeth and Mark Armstrong David and Sue Astin *Dorothy A. Bailey+ Leigh Bailey and Freda Marver Angela and George Bernhardt *Rae + and Albin+ Carlson Rae Carlson+ Trust Gerald M. Caruso, Jr. Richard and Judith Corson Carol A. Curoe Judith and Kent Davidson Lisa and Scott Dongoske John Estrem Rosemary and Marvin+ Fish
Shirley (Rip) and Ted+ Freeman Jean and Bill Gjetson Carol Gottschalk Don and Heidi Haberman *Donald A. Hartmann+ *Robert B. Hill+ *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 Christopher and Peggy Klug Wayne Krippner Trust Bill+ and Joan+ Krippner Laura Langer Robert and Michelle Luke Lewis+ and Jill Mithun
Jean and Tim+ Nelson Denny and Mary Newell Bruce and Merry Jo Parker Susan and Nino+ Pedrelli Steven and Paula Peterson Father Don Piche Joan and Norm Purrington *Allen and LaVonne Ribbe Robert M. Reed+Trust 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 *Dale+ and Elaine+ Timmers Barbara Tuckner *Grace+ and Paul+ Voetmann Pete and Carolyn Wahtera *Mary Wesley+ *Karole Whipps+
* = Legacy gift received + = Deceased Blue = New to society
Shortly before Bill Krippner passed away in April 2023 he wrote, “My son Wayne is probably going to outlive me. I need to look out for his future. With him living at Hammer & NER, I trust he is in safe hands. Because of that, I have included them in my estate plans. I want to be sure they have the funds to care for him after I am gone.”
22 | Discoveries
Make a gift directly from your IRA to Hammer & NER. If you are age 70½ or older, you can give a gift directly from your IRA to support Hammer & NER. While you will not receive an income-tax deduction, you will not pay taxes on any distributions made directly to Hammer & NER. A gift from your IRA also reduces your taxable income, which could help reduce your Medicare premiums and the amount of Social Security benefits that are taxable. You can contact your IRA plan administrator to request that a qualified charitable distribution be made directly to Hammer & NER today.
CONTRIBUTORS | Donations from October 1, 2022 - September 30, 2023 Thank you families, friends, foundations, and local businesses for contributing to Hammer & NER. Your remarkable support makes people’s lives better and we appreciate your generosity.
Red = Family Members = Matching Gift Company ♥ = Monthly Donor + = Deceased
$100,000 +
Medica Foundation Daum Family Fund / Suresh Krishna & $5,000 – $9,999 John and Maryann Carol and George Daum Bhuvana Nandakumar Anonymous Merideth Teresa M. Fleischhacker Charitable Fund Gregory Anderson Patricia A. Fleming Sani and Gene O’Brien Elaine and Robert Bache $50,000 – $99,999 Bruce and Merry Jo Parker Otten Bros. Nursery Leigh H. Bailey Charitable Peter Flint and Jan Susan Argall Haas and Plymouth Lions Symchych Susan and Nino + Pedrelli Fund / Leigh Bailey and Brian Haas ♥ Roehl Family Foundation Front Row Digital Christine Poppe Freda Marver Richard and Katharine / Kate and Jerry Roehl Gjetson Family Fund / Paul Schultz Bloomer Family Olson Charitable Fund Siegel Family Foundation Jean and Bill Gjetson ♥ Josh Smith Foundation / Steve and Plymouth Housing / Elaine Siegel Linda and Bob Geri Bloomer and Family Graves Family Charitable and Redevelopment Karl and Laurie Fund / Gregory and Tomaschko Thomas and Pamela Authority - CDBG Stoltenberg Jiselle Graves Wynona Warner Brennecke The Estate of Dale and Jeff and Libby Streinz Warners’ Stellian Polly and Kurt Brungardt David Hardt Elaine Timmers Charles and Ellen John and Cindy Hitt Company Inc. / Scott Herman Family Swanson Jensen Family Charitable Gerald M. Caruso, Jr. $25,000 – $49,999 Barbara J. Tenney + Fund /Jerry and Laura $1,000 – $4,999 Sarah Caruso and Dick Fred C. and Katherine B. Suplemental Needs Trust Hurrelbrink Jensen Anonymous (4) Andersen Foundation Michael and Barbara Dawn and Paxton Jevnick Joel and Mary Amundson Coldwell Banker Burnet Argall/Hibbs Foundation Tenney Rick Lang and Mary Beth Dr. Kevin and Barbara White Bear Lake Bieber Family Foundation Tony’s Wayzata BP Olson Amundson Coldwell Banker Realty / Bill Bieber + Twin City Heating, Air Cynthia Laurent Anderson Family Cares Foundation Delta Dental of and Electric Charitable Fund / Bruce Patrice and James Dahl ♥ Martinson Clinic Minnesota Foundation Julie Wesley-Wong and Foundation and Debbie Anderson Jim and Brenda Damiani Geritom Medical Wymond Wong ♥ Mutual of America Edward Anderson Minnesota Housing Janet and David Finance Anderson ♥ Janet M. Robert Marshall and Dru Charitable Fund / Janet Anderson Robert and Bill Luther ♥ Rachel Anderson and Ringe Family Charitable Gregg Anderson Fund / Mitch and Judi Savannah and Derek Ringe Archambault Richard M. Schulze David and Sue Astin Family Foundation ATEK Companies Drs. Mary and Jan Bacio Tanghe Bame Foundation Barbara J. Tennessen Barnes and Noble Windsong Donor Advised Nancy and Paul Battaglia Fund / Gail Munsell Bruce Baumeister Mark Berquist $10,000 – $24,999 Jeff and Widdy Bird AK Material Handling Tom and Angela Systems ♥ Blanchette Amlicke Family Gary and Sally Bluem Foundation / Bruce and Boeing Company Celeste Amlicke Sarah and Benjamin John and Nancy Berg Bower Conan and Amy Crum Pete and Mandi Brandon Donahue Family Bremer Bank Bob Lockwood and his daughter, Druanne, Charitable Fund / Paul Jerry and Cathy Brennan and Charlotte Donahue enjoyed the Family Day Picnic, one of Hammer Bright Funds Foundation Mary Drazan Teresa Brown Kathy Ganzer and David & NER’s long-running traditions. They enjoyed Tim and Julie Bullock C. Piehl The Cargill Foundation seeing old friends and all the fun activities. Joseph and Shelly Barry and Debbie Carlson Hoesley Charitable Fund The Family Day Picnic is for families and is Rae Carlson + Trust ♥ Horton Holdings, Inc Sandra C. Carlson supported by family donations. Pat Houston Alfred G Colling Todd Kimmes Anonymous
Discoveries | 23
David and Debra Czech Charitable Fund Joe and Sondra Dahmer Charitable Fund Kelly Daily Belle Davenport Gerry and Vicki Degner Loretta Docken Louis Doelz Lisa and Scott Dongoske Sharla and Blake Duerre Erin Dunn and Ted Wentink Eden Prairie Community Foundation Eide Bailly, LLP George Emerson Enterprise Holdings Foundation Esch Construction Supply, Inc. Christina Fair Eric Fazendin Matthew Fish and Xiaoni Niu Rosemary Fish ♥ Fox Investments / Jim and Sue Fox John and Deborah Fox Sean Foy Rebecca and Ron Furnival ♥ General Mills Beth Gildemeister Darold and Debra Gjorass Charity Fund Kathryn H. Glen Carol Gottschalk Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation Steve and Jean Guenther Hadley Family Charitable Fund / Gary and Kathleen Hadley Greg and Kathy Hanson Dr. Daniel Hartnett Family Foundation Ronald L. Haskvitz Haugen Family Foundation / Tim and Amy Haugen Jack and Kate Helms Mary Hilgert Mark and Nancy Hirschfeld ♥ Paula Hirschoff and Chuck Ludlam Linda and Kenneth Holmen ♥ Sarah Homuth-Goar ♥ Anne Housh Ronald E. Hovda Kent and Marylyn Howe Ron and Lori Hume Mark Johnson
24 | Discoveries
Brandon Eddy and Alex Greene, of Geritom Medical, took the stage as our Reach for Ralph Presenting Sponsor. Thanks to the 26 sponsors who contributed over $125,000 and helped us raise a total of $416,551 – our biggest fundraiser ever! If you would like to support the people who call Hammer & NER home and their caregivers as a 2024 Reach for Ralph sponsor, please contact Nate Reed at Nathan.Reed@Hammer.org. The 2024 event takes place June 13! Save the date! Ron and Marlene Johnson Sherri and Steve Johnson Steven and Teresa Kastendieck ♥ Chip and Debbie Kemppainen Hugh and Julie Kirsch ♥ Christopher and Peggy Klug Knights of Columbus 3758 Carolyn and Doug Kohrs Jo Ann Koltes ♥ Mary Kuechly Leah Kuypers Karen Lafferty Design Mike and Connie LaRoche Gregg and Stephanie Larsen Lexus of Wayzata Karen Lieberman Sheila and Peter Lind Michael and Karen Linn ♥ Lions Club of Wayzata Andrew P. Litecky
Living Well Disability Services Robert Lockwood LOCO Partners Robert and Michelle Luke ♥ Mary K. Lund Russell T Lund Charitable Trust Lunds & Byerlys Wayzata Terry and Deb Lynner Philip and Barbara MacNeill Jeff and Caren Martin Marvin’s Greenberg Family Fund Darlene and Thomas McCarthy John and Molly McDonald Brian McEnaney Taya Mergott Mary Metzler and Elliott Mills MidCountry Bank Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures Patty and Mike Molden
Steve and Debbie Morelan ♥ Moren Charitable Fund / Kathryn S. Moren and Mark Thompson Bob and Karen Morgan Matt and Marty Mueller Nancy and Mike Nafziger Netsmart Technologies Denny and Mary Newell Kevan and Laurie Nitzberg Northwest Area Jaycees Ogilvy Mary and Michael Ongstad ♥ S.B. Osborn Charitable Trust / Bartley and Kandi Osborn Cliff Foundation / Clifford and Mary Lou Otten Mary Patterson ♥ Michael Patterson and Deborah Hollman Glen and Maria Pawlowski Foundation PepsiCo Foundation Ann Peterson
Barb Peterson and Melissa Brunsvold Steven and Paula Peterson Father Don Piche ♥ John and Vicki Pink Sharon L Pipes ♥ Douglas and Pam Plocek Dan and Katherine Poppe Laura and Gary Poulsen Joan and Norm Purrington Mark and Karen Rauenhorst Foundation Susan and Andrew Rein Heather and Sam Reinert Joe and Kathy Reis Michael and Cheryl Rosenblatt Audrae Rosenzweig + Rotary Club of Wayzata Kennon Rothchild Jeanne S. Rouch Sanford, Pierson, Thone and Strean, P.L.C. Saras Foundation
Corrine and Denny Schmidt Floyd and Shirley Schneider Rita Schofield Kent and Traci Scholten Fund Schroll Family Fund / Steve and Tami Schroll George and Audrey Schultz Sears Imported Autos, Inc. Jane and Don Shaffer ♥ James and Margie Sillery Thomas and Lee Ann Silver Marie Silvernagel Renee E. SolingerAudette ♥ David Sovell St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church Mark and Gayle Stage Stagetime Productions Ben and Mary Stephens Blaine and Julia Stephens Chris M Strande ♥ Success Fitness & Traning Center Victor Sugumar and Anita Victor Denine Taylor ♥ Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation Barbara Tuckner ♥ John Tulloch Twin Cities Closet Company UnitedHealth Group Dollars Emp. Giving & Dollars for Doers Bruce and Carmen Volkart Pete and Carolyn Wahtera Kevin Walli and Tani Maruyama Mark and Kathy Wallraff William Walsh Carla Warner James and Sandra Warner Family Fund Wayzata Wines & Spirits Jim and Cathy Wesley Michael Wesley ♥ Western National Insurance Group Diane M and Timothy J Williams Brad and Cheri Wivell Mary Ann and John Wolters Nick Wolters
Bill and Bonnie Young Les and Mary Anne Young’s Charitable Foundation
$500 – $999
Anonymous (4) Allegra Print & Imaging AmazonSmile Teresa and Ken Amerman James and Patricia Amlicke Bob and Colleen Anderson Lisbeth and Mark Armstrong ♥ Bank of America John and Sheila Barbetta ♥ Lawrence and JoAnn Barbetta ♥ John and Meryl Barrow Mark and Carolyn Bauer ♥ David and Jean Baumeister Genevieve Baumeister Jake and Nan Beard Jim and Sandy Beckman Laura Lee and Kyle Berger Muriel Bonertz Lisa and Dave Boss Peter and Cindi Boynton David Brand Diane Bruns Jen Burleigh-Bentz Leo Byron Paul and Mayone Byron Charles and Deb Carlson Marlan and Janis Carlson Mark and Rebekah Cibuzar Mary Coleman ♥ Pauline Coleman ♥ Mike and Vanessa Conner Patrick Conry Don and Carol Curwick Eric and Paula Dahmer Lynne and Bill Dolan Tina Douglas Wayne Duerschmidt Lori Duffney Kay and Rick Emery Tim Engebretsen Gordon and Nancy Engel Bob and Terrisa Fisher ♥ Anne Freeman and Christopher Higgins David Freeman and Patricia O’Rourke Freeman Stephen Gales Dan Ganzer Rachel Ganzer
Maureen and Gregory Grazzini Sue and Ilja Gregor ♥ Don and Heidi Haberman Sharon Hammang Donald and Ida Hanna Adam Hansen Breanna Hanson and Andy Pekoll Denis and Caroline Harrington
Norm and Rochelle Hart Bill and Marie Heiland Robert and Kathy Hendrickson The Italian Gourmet JK Interiors Inc. ♥ Brian Johnson ♥ Terry and Timothy Johnston ♥ Lane and Patty Jorgensen
Adam Kastendieck Dan and Diane Kirchoffner Dan H. Klein Knights of Columbus 13359 Gary Krainak and Margaret Peck John and Terry Kruse Matt Kukla Herbert and Kathie Levy
Mayor Dan Louismet and City Administrator Lindy Crawford (not pictured) from White Bear Lake were greeted with smiles by the four ladies who live at County Road F. Virjean, Sandra, Linda and Missy (not pictured) were excited to show off their house, rooms, and gardens. Sharing the many things they enjoy about living in White Bear Lake and so much more was fun for the ladies. There was also an opportunity to self-advocate about issues important to them. Denise Ring (left) and Beatta Smith (right) have been caring for the ladies for many years.
Discoveries | 25
Joan Loer Dr. Alison and Bill Lynch Katherine Magy Markwest Inc. Rick and Terri McCarthy Metro West Inspection Services Laurie and Doug Moga Deb Mosnik Paul and Stella Nelson Allan and Vicki Olson Michelle and Steve Olson ♥ Susan and Michael Oreck Pentair Pierson Family Fund / Chris and Becky Pierson Anthony Pricco David and Karen Quinby Family Fund Lynne Rasmussen Catherine Reller Buck and Kim Riesgraf Tom and Diane Russell Mike and Susie Scherer Marty and Leilani Schlundt Keli and Andy Selness Allison and Phillip Shatzman Teri Shaughnessy Shine WealthAmeriprise Financial Bob and Linda Simmons Smith Charitable Fund / Dannette Smith Michael and Marilyn Sullivan Will and Lottie Steinke/ Christensen Insurance Group Ben Taylor and Kate Kelly William Thorson and Nancy Miller Thrivent Choice Program Richard and Nancy Timp ♥ John and Jody Tzucker Mark and Karen Uecker UrbanWorks Architecture LLC Vadnais Heights Area Community Foundation Robert Bruesewitz and Joanne Wesley Thomas Wesley and Janice James Thomas and Rose Winkels Family Catholic Intiative Fund Jonathan and Amy+ Wivell
26 | Discoveries
Lotus Pharmacy volunteers served dinner at the Luau in July. Volunteers from the community are part of our Family, extended. If your group would like to get involved, make a difference, and have fun, contact Cathy Thoma at 952-3458554 or cthoma@hammer.org to learn more.
Jackie Wulf ♥ Mark and Wendy Yungner Ray Zawislak Linda Zimmerman and Associates
$100 – $499
Anonymous (10) 54th South Storage The 614 Company Lee and Caryl Aanenson Amir and Sarah Abdelwahed Margaret and John Abdo Theresa Acevedo Activision Blizzard Bernie Aldrich Tim and Michelle Allen Jerry and Marla Jean Alstead Tom and Ann Althauser Steven Anderson and Cynthia O’Shaugnessy Carole Arwidson Betsy and John Asturias Eve Badran Richard and Joan Baker
David Barrett Katie and Richard Barrett Stephen and Charlene Barron Elaine Becker Michelle Bernloehr Barb Betz David and Mary Bjarnason Andy Bleck Conrad and Mary Bloomquist Scott Bocklund and Peggy Hill-Bocklund Jim and Paula Borer Beth and Scott Bouman Missy Braem Chayse Brandon Brian Brandvold Katie Bredesen John and Emily Brenengen Patricia Brown Paul Brownell Sheletta Brundidge Steve and Mary Bunnell Robert and Susan Burns Business Choice, Inc.
Jullie Bustos Teresa and Mathew Callahan Calm Terri Cantrall Kathy and Greg Carlson Scott and Gerda Carlson Tim and Kelly Carlson Ann Catherwood Vonnie Chan Joey and Taylor Christensen Rachel and Donald Christensen Heather and Jason Cieslicki Debbie Cisewski Matt Clark Bethany Collins Glenda Condon Madonna Cormier Gary and Susan Cramer Heather Creighton Anne Cuddy Brion and Brandi Curran Rob and Susan Dahlin ♥ Diane Dalbey Holly Damiani
Judith and Kent Davidson ♥ Catherine DeCelles Kenneth and Rita Dedeker Julie and Stephen Deuth Cal and Katy Dirks Donkers Lydon Giving Fund Meg and Tim Dornfeld Peggy Douglas Benjamin Drews Joleen Duda Tom and Char Dunaski The Dunning Family Nate Durtschi East Metro Lutheran Action Council (EMLAC) Nate Eckhoff Edge Orthodontics, LLC Jill Eisenberg Sara Eisenberg Marjorie and Charles Elliott Paul and Wendy Engelman Jim and Susan Erickson G. Everett Enterprises, Inc. Michael and Jackie Fair Donald and Clova Falenczykowski Corey Falls FAN HQ Gene and Cindy Farrell Margaret Faulhaber Francesco Favazza Tom Fitzpatrick and Mary Ebnet Michael and Sandra Foley Rita Fox Jaci Frederick Tom and Joan Freidel Barrie Froseth Raymond and Leslie Gaffney JoAnn and Roger Gaio Morgan Gallo Andrew Ganesh Pete Ganzer Linda and Terry Garvert Charitable Fund Paul and Amy Gauer Judy Gelina Phyllis and Rich GenestStein Larry and Debbie Getlin Barbara Gill Tom and Susie Gillespie Rosemary and Lawrence Gleason Golden Valley Country Club Google
Greg Goranson Diane and Mark Gorder Donna Gorski Randy and Jeri Gort Peter and Karen Graff Cathy and Jeff Green Sharon Green Bob and Sue Greenberg Alex and Samantha Greene Clayton Gripp Lynn and Bryan Groll Andrew and Suzanne Grossman Debby Grote Connie A. Gunderson Debra Hagen John and Kathy Hamilton Jessica Hammer ♥ James and Susan Hansen James and Judith Hardek Natalie Harder Anne Harmon, Alexander, Connor and Stephen Patterson Mark Hartman
Jenna Haskvitz Gary and Kris Hays Loren and Kristen Heeringa Family Charitable Fund Devan Heinsen Karen Heintz Kay L Hempel Jo Ann M. Henricksen ♥ Heritage Embroidery & Design Rose Hexum Mary Marquretta Hill ♥ Kim Hoffman Robert and Sharon Hoffman Michael and Ann Hofkin Kelly and Mike Hoglund David and Linda Holzinger Hopkins Rug Artists Jeanne Horwath Roger and Elaine Hovda Meredith E. Howell Inspire Brands Randall and Heidi Isaak
Vicki Jackman Richard and Kathleen Jackson Aleda and Roy Jacobson Jean and Paul Jaeger Gena and Joe Janetka John Jarvis Amy Jensen Chris and Sarah Jewett Judith and Larry Johnson Matt Johnson Trevor Johnson Corly and Nick Jones Margaret and Roger Jones Dr. Sonu Joseph Judd Frost Clothiers Carol Juergens Julie Jurrjens Naomi and Barry Kassler MaryAnne Kayiatos Jasmin King Jim and Betty Klande Barbara and David Kleist ♥ Vicki Klima
Helena Watson, caregiver for nine years, invited her sister and her husband, Joanna Davies and Sando Davies to celebrate our 100th and 50th anniversaries at the Spring Breakfast in April. They joined 400 members of our Family, extended as we shared stories from the past, our vision for the future, and celebrated our anniversaries.
Jean Klinck Nancy Kloehn Everett and Jane Klosterman Knights of Columbus 13506 Knights of Columbus 3949 Jill Kohler ♥ Margaret Kolden Joe and Gina Koltes Steve and Kay Koltes Korese & Korese PC Kathleen Kozlak Paul and Sally Kraske Ronald and Gina Krippner Terrance and Mary Ann Kukla Wayne and June Kulas Karen and Sean Lafferty Nancy and Dan Lagermeier Laura Lakemacher Jeffrey and Susan Lambert Jim Landt and Judy Grochon Steven Langsdale Javan Larson Kurt and Constance Larson Wendee Larson Audrey Gail Lazarus Joy Leibman Gary and K. Diane Lichter Phil and Barb Lindblad Maureen Lindgren Little Nectar Co Elaine Loeffler ♥ Loffler Companies Connor Lovdahl Mark and Linda Lucke Mary Lydon and Chuck Donkers Terry and Debra Lynner Fund Ronald Machtan Donald and Susan Malafa Melissa and Steve Mark MartinPatrick 3 Marcia Massee Don and Lorraine Mathiowetz Mike and Lisa Maurer Anna Maus Charles J. McCarthy and Elizabeth Jacobson April McClellan-Dunning Paul D. McConnell Colleen McCoshen Preston and Betsy McMillan Medcalf Family Fund / Tom Medcalf
The Medtronic Foundation Dr. Andrew Mekhail Tom and Rose Mary Meyer Douglas and Sherrill Michel Barry and Mary Jo Miller Dan Mills Minnesota Orchestra Rick and Jeanne Moe Larry Moos Sheila Morgan Daniel Moudry Mount Olivet Lutheran Church Quilting Club Larry and Barb Mueller Andy and Karen Nelson Brent and Karen Nelson Erik Nelson Gary and Linda Nelson Jean Nelson Jennifer Nelson Mike and Karen Nelson Mark and Ingrid Nemzek Ed and Mary Oberg Roger and Joan Off William Olive Barbara Olson Laurie and Rich Olson Stacy Olson Katherine Otteson Daniel and Tara Owens Jared Oxborough Christopher Palmer Elizabeth and Bruce Pankonin Park Tavern Jan Parks Donald and Barbara Paschke Passau Land Care Richard Passolt Bob and Sue Past Carol Patterson Eric Petersen Anna and Ramsey Peterson Bob and Juanita Peterson Mindee Peterson Ripley and Mary Peterson Tom Peterson The Phoenix Residence, Inc. Pickleball Paul Leslie and Kevin Pleasant Scott and Karin Poellinger Brittany Porrazzo Aaron and Peggy Pouliot Karen Poulsen + Daniel Powell Robert Powell
Discoveries | 27
After several years’ absence we returned to Riley Lake for our Eden Prairie picnic. In attendance were the Arrive, Renew, and Lake Place apartment programs with new additions Vicksburg Village and Cedarwood apartments. The weather was beautiful, and everyone enjoyed the afternoon. Your gifts made this event possible.
Romelyn Prokop Mary and Robert Putnam R. F. Moeller Jeweler Henry Radintz Richard Radley Bill and Deb Ramsey Susan H. Rappaport Revocable Trust Dawn Rauen Redstone Michael and Marlene Rees Allen and LaVonne Ribbe Linda and Michael Richardson Carolyn Riley Edwin and Christina Ritchie Jean and Don Rohrer Bradley and Kelly Roles Stan Rosaves Cathy and Kirk Rose Karen and Tim Rose Terry and Cathy Roth Dan Ruppert-Kan Olivia Ryan Marvin and Judy Saarela ♥ Sue Salomone Karen Sames Alice Sanders Norma J. Schaefer Revocable Trust Scott Schaffer Ann L. Schenkel
28 | Discoveries
Peter and Geri Scherer Tony and RaeAnn Schmalzbauer Shanna Schmitt Zane Schultz and Courtney Johnson Doug and Donna Schwab Nancy Schwalen Lisa Schwieters Science Museum of Minnesota Macy + and Tracy Seymour ♥ Linda Shaffer Tyler Sheley and Lacey Brown Terry Silver Andrea Simonett Eleanor and Ivan Skoog Gary and Shirley Smith Richard and Mary Snydle Diane Solinger and Jerry Cook Timothy and Cheryl Solinger David Somers Spire Credit Union Tom and Pam Spitznagle John and Sarah Sprenzel Sally Spry Mary Stage Eileen, Trudy, Carolyn and Tom Stead Arthur Stickley
Nancy C Stone Stonebridge Capital Advisors Danielle Strege Jon Sturgis Sadie and Owen Sullivan Elaine and Mark Taggatz Mona Talley Target Strategic Sourcing Team Thomas and Constance Tart Donald and Rita Tasto Lou and Pam Taylor Trish Tennyson Eldon and Addie Tessman Michael and Susan Tewksbury The Standard LLC Theater Latté Da Kara Tholkes Ashvin Thottempudi Phil and Myra Toconita Richard Todd and Patricia Haswell Alicia Luther Toms and Steve Toms Amanda Trnka ♥ Andrew Tulloch Jackie Ulrich Sherry Underdahl Amy Van Ert-Anderson Lois Van Keulen Rick and Sandra Vazquez
Jake and Sarah Veldman Ronald and Shirley Vescio Jeff and Sandy Visser Nancy Vogt and Mark Quern Lori Wagner Barbara Waldoch Edward and Teresa Walker James and Julie Walsh Kathleen and Daniel Walsh Angela Warner John, Gina and Gus Waterhouse Connie and Ben Webber Erik Wellman Abbie Wesley Yun Linda and Bob Westenberg Barbara Wheeler and John Cannino Lisa Wichmann Paul and Janice Wicklund Jim and Jen Wieland Michelle Wildenauer Alan and Connie Wilensky Winifred Designs Rob and Michelle Wolf Margaret Wong Rick and Mary Worringer
Ginny and John Worthington Jennifer Young Nancy Zeik Robyn Zeller Dale and Claudia Zellmer Maria Zimmerman Chris Zimonick Dennis Zitnak
Under $100
Anonymous (17) Abbott Labs Richard and Laura Abbott Claire Ambriz Barbara F Amram Living Trust Christine Anderson Elwood Anderson Jeanne Anderson Jeanne and Anthony Anderson Kevin and Lorraine Anderson Sonja Anderson Tanya Anderson Linda Anlauf Gayle Appelbaum Steve Arenson Kerry and Jill Audette Georgia Bailey Bill Baker Amy and Stan Baratz Alex Barczuk
Jeannette Barrett Melanie Barry Carol Barthelemy Ronald and Christy Bateman Margaret J Bauman Darrell and Kenwyn Beckstrom Ben the Baker Ken Bence
Gene and Marilyn Bratsch Barbara and Larry Brauch The Brawley Family Clare Brees-Oswald Mark and Jenny Bretheim Mary Ann Brown Jamie Bruns
Gary and Catherine Carruthers John and Cheryl Casper Terra Charley Don Chillstrom Jake Christensen Hailee Clark Kathleen Clark Matthew and Lisa Clifford
As part of our anniversary celebration many of our homes and apartments hosted celebrations with their families. These Home Gatherings give the people we support a chance to meet each other’s families. This group met at Plymouth Colony. Barb Benshop Kiki and Larry Berg Jonathan and Joanna Berger Jill Berthiaume Sara Bible Patricia Bill Jon and Mary Jo Bishop Meggan Bjorlund Black Sheep Pizza Alvin and Julie Blau Jan Blount Paul and Carlyn Blum John and Chrisse Bonnes Deanna Brandt
Shi Bu Wes Bue and Denise Eng Cara Buettner Holly Burns Victoria Burrow Cheri Burton-Ulmen Gary and Stacey Bush Teri Butler Carolyn Cade Cafe Latte JQ Calderon Pat Camp Samantha Cantrall Cory and Mary Carlson Judy Carlson
Patty Coles Jacquelyn Connelly Beth Cook Pearly Cook David and Lynn Cookson Scott and Deborah Cooper Rae Cornelius Jim and Renee Cornwell Allen and Elizabeth Crawford Cucumbers Kerry Culver Patricia Cunniff Joseph and Tamra Daley Thomas Danielson
Andy Davies Olivia Decelles Tracey Demorett Designs for Learning Special Ed Team Marlene Dickey Ronald Dickson Jerry and Irene Diedrich Justine Doanldson Domacin Restaurant & Wine Bar Tess Donahue Carrie Dornisch Dusty Drahos Lauren Dries Patrick and Beverly Duda Chloe Duffing Marlene and Daniel Ebert Taylor Eckerline Emagine Theaters Empower Health and Fitness Matt English Paula Engstrom Paula Erato Daggett Allen and Audrey Erickson Judy Ferretti Gary and Debra Finn First Avenue & 7th Street Entry Eileen Fisher Madison Fisher Jon Fjalstad Flamm and Shaw Family Charitable Fund Ruth Foley Thomas and Cynthia Forster Bobby Fox Dana Fox Susan Franklin Joel and Nancy Franz John Frederickson Rachael Freed Miriam Freidson Barbara and Lon Friedman Donna Friedman Rita Friedman Sally Fritze Thomas and Claudia Froistad Arthur Fry William and Claudia Fyten Mark Ganzer Sue Garnett Tim Garry and Family Hugh and Marjorie Garside Sean Geist Chuck Geneslaw
Robert and Carolyn Gerdes LeRoy and Darlene Gilbert Lisa Girard Robert and Patti Glumack John and Jean Goad Marlene Goldberg Alicia Gordon Macalus Jan Grabo Steven and Cynthia Grindy Joe and Nancy Groenjes Daniel Grossman Randy Gunderson Jeffrey Gunelson Judith Gyurci Michael and Sarah Hagglund Rob and Marsha Hamer George Hamilton Lisa Hannum Scott Hardek Tom and Shelly Harris Erica Hart Lisa Heine Downs Jess Heitland Ronald and Barbara Hellenthal Rebecca Helms Samantha Hempel The Hennen Family Greg and Katherine Hickman Mary Hillary Milton and Karen Hinman Cori Hintzman Brian Hobbins Ruth Lange Hoffman Jordan Holtz Ron and Judy Horn Susan Hunt Alex Hustedt Mai Lena Huynh Kristin Hysjulien Tom Jacobson Lenore James Constance Jennison Ronald Jensen and Judy Ostendorff Betty Jodzio Cheryl and James Johnson Denise Johnson JoAnn Johnson Pat and Clifford Johnson Thomas Johnson Corey Jolma Tom and Janice Jordan David and Julie Jungkunz Just for Me Spa Richard and Nancy Kaner Amy Karls
Discoveries | 29
Wanda Kauffman Michael and Maureen Kayser Giving fund Barbara Kellet Kendra Scott Store MOA Kim Keprios and John Everett Kingsley and Joan Kerrick Mark and Miriam Kieffer Laura King Skylar Kistler Kari Kitrell Rachel Klaven Rick Kleinbaum Carley Kleinhans Peter and Robin Knaeble Family Charitable Fund M. A. Kneeland Nancy Kolb Janet Kopchinski David and Jane Kostik Jeffrey Koval Joel Kraft Steven and Jennifer Krahn Ruth Kranick Clint Kranz Paul Krause and Joan Cox Mary Kreck Britni Krieger Paula Krippner Cassandra Kuebler Joe Kukla Hart and Susie Kuller Janet Kunkel Kwik Trip Annette Lam Renee and Mark Lampe Laura Langer Dennis and Karen Larson Peter and Lynn Larson Frances Laven Michael Lee Taylor Lee David Leinoff Dr. Richard and Joan Lentz Marshall Levin Marcia and Fred LeVoir Lions Tap Melissa Livermore Jeff and Diane Lovich Linda and Woody Lowry Luci Ancora Cucina Italiana Trevor Lueders James and Debra Lund Nikki Lund R. J. Lusky and P. J. Eckelberry Mary Lutz Sue Lynott
30 | Discoveries
Craig Lyon Gail Machov Mad Capper Dennis and Linda Maetzold Terrance and Jeanine Magalis Rachel Manz Victoria Marley Shannon Marlin Kevin and Ann Martin Helen Mason Jean Massaro-Simpson and Douglas J. Simpson Howard Mathison and Mari Rovang Nicole McCain Jane McDonald and Colleen O’Malley Catherine McDougal Terry and Mark McFarland John and Vickie McGrath Dennis and Kathryn McGuire Kevin and Katherine McKeon John and Molly McShane Sandra and Paul Mead Lily Merritt Kim Mesun Regan and Gerry Miller Tena Miller Sharon Mills Minneapolis Institute of Arts Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Minnesota State Fair Minnesota Wild Connie Mitchell Alli Moga Alfreda Monahan LuAnn Mordick Karen Morgan M. Ruth Mulcahy Darlene Murphy Larry Myers Lucille Nadeau Tyler and Ann Nelson Kenneth Nicholls Mary L. Nichols Jeff and Lisa Niederloh Dave Noren Northern Taphouse Rebecca Nutt Luke Olliff Dawn Orden David and Vicki Oster Tamil Palanisamy Warren and Patty Park Parley Lake Winery Dee O. Pederson Revocable Trust Cheryl and Tom Pelkey
Board member Don Haberman (center) is a dedicated advocate for disability services. His daughter, Katie, is supported by Hammer & NER. In March, they attended Day at the Capitol where they met Representative Kelly Morrison (left). “Talking with our legislators is important and we need to be advocates for those we love,” Don says. Nicole Pereira Daniel Perzichilli Elizabeth Peters Susan Peterson Colette Petitt Kris Pettit Phil’s Tara Hideaway Cecilia Piche Mary Plank Joseph Polta Phillip and Lorraine Poppler Carol Porter Prime Therapeudics Tina Provetto Nancy Qualls-Fox Laura Rahn Christine and Luis Ramirez Robert and Carol Rathje Rebecca Reber Nancy Recibe Joseph Rehme Sharon and Julie Reinert
James Reissner Nandi Rieck Sarah Ring River Bank Gifts & Decor Edward Robbins E J Rodine Donald and Bonnie Roeder Nicholas and Peggy Rolfes Brenda and James Rossman Kelly Royer Greg Ruhland Aaron Ruikka Running Aces Steve and Sharon Runtsch Marjorie Rutkowski Debby Saadi Richard and Debora Salhus Regent Scandrett Megan Schaefer
Angie Schauer Vicki L Schlechter Supplemental Needs Trust Cory Schmidt Gregory and Debra Schmit Gerald and Alice Schmitz Lisa Schneider Schuler Shoes Chuck and Yvonne Selcer Muriel Seltz Carol Shapiro Faith I. Shatzman Jeffrey and Cari Shaw Nan Shaw Jan Marie Shaw-Flamm Kerrin E Shay Mary Shutt Loras and Rosemary Sieve Emilee Sirek William Sislo Gabriel and Angela Skelly
Devin Sloan Terrance Smith Daniel Spector Katrina St. Claire St. Paul Saints Pete and Lois Stadick Stages Theatre Company Kendall Stark Linda Staupe Marcia Stephens Kristin Stern Lorraine Stevenson Katherine Steward Greta Stritesky Kevin and Jane Stuessy Summit Liquors Jerry and Judy Suprenant Peggy Swanson Sandra Teichner Sue Thayer The Waters of Plymouth Kaye Theony Hannah and Dean Thibodeau Lenore Thommes Beth Thompson Duane Thompson Morgan Thompson Three Rivers Park District Lisa Tomis Top Golf Trader Joes Maple Grove Trader Joe’s Katie Trafton W. Bart and Gretchen Trebnick Judy Truc Barb Turk Twin Cities Bakery Drivers Pension Fund Clair Tyra
Reverend John and Genevieve Ubel Jim Ulrich Diana Varecka Living Trust Chris Veerkamp Sara Volkman William and Janice Vornwald Mark and Rhonda Wacholz Lisa Walsak Linda Waltenberg Margaret Wangensteen Kathryn Waterhouse Janet Weisberg Wells Fargo Business Banking Courtney Wendell Richard and Diane Wesely Natalie White Richard and Elisabeth Wiener Deb and Thomas Williams Guyle and Barbara Wills Nathan and Liz Willson Aleena Wilson Maranatha Wilson Alma Wolff Carlye Wright Bob and Jeanniie Zaikaner-Fink
Congratulations to Dustin and Yuna on your wedding! Dustin’s brother, Micah, lives in one of our group homes. Dustin and Yuna are committed to helping provide the highest level of care for Micah. They generously put their commitment into action by requesting their wedding guests donate to Hammer & NER in lieu of a wedding gift. Thank you!
Red = Family Members = Matching Gift Company ♥ = Monthly Donor + = Deceased
Micah and Dustin
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The Gift of an Education Touches Many Lives By Jennifer L. Hipple
J
omarie Williams works hard to balance her role as the Program Manager for our Tyler and Merrimac homes with raising a young son and attending Metropolitan State University. Our education grants have given Jomarie the opportunity to continue her undergraduate degree in human services and double minor in family studies and disability studies. “It’s helping me improve the quality of care I give to the people I support,” she says. Jomarie started at Black Oaks in 2014 and became a support specialist. In 2018, she became the Program Manager at Welcome Place. “A few days later I found out I was pregnant,” she says. “I left for a couple years to spend more time with my son.” When she returned, she became the Program Manager for the Tyler house and was later asked to help manage our Merrimac home, too. Jomarie says the sense of family is what keeps her here. “Hammer & NER makes the people we support the priority,” she says. “You also develop relationships with people you work with. We all have one goal: for the people we support to be safe and receive what they need. Every person I’ve supported has touched me in their own way,” Jomarie says. “When I was pregnant, one of the women I supported didn’t want me to touch her or transfer her because she was afraid it would hurt the baby. I would assure her it would be okay. It meant a lot that she was concerned for me and the baby.”
Jomarie Williams
Before coming to America in 2009, Jomarie studied sociology and social work. “I didn’t know if it was the right path,” she says. “I then studied to be a medical assistant, but I didn’t like it when it came to the internship. I stopped going to college to help my family, but I kept the secret from my mom. Then she passed away and I knew she knew the truth. I went back because of her—and for my son.” Jomarie takes 16 credits each semester and is on the honor roll. She’ll graduate in May 2024. “The things I already do at work go hand in hand with school,” she says. “When I learn something new, I try to change what I’m doing. It has opened my eyes more. At this point in my life there’s a lot this degree can do for me. I’m happy that I chose this time to do it. It means more to me. I want to thank those who go above and beyond to make these opportunities available for the staff to better equip themselves.”
Jomarie with John Estrem at the ANCOR Policy Summit in Washington D.C., October 2023
Our education grants are made possible by our generous donors and have helped over 100 employees achieve their educational goals. Thank you. 32 | Discoveries
IN MEMORY OF | Donations from October 1, 2022 - September 30, 2023 Thank you for your generosity and kindness in remembering those you have lost. Lynn Aase Philip and Barbara MacNeill Blair Anderson Bob and Colleen Anderson Michael M. Anderson Anonymous Barbara F. Amram Sonja Anderson Kerry and Jill Audette David Barrett Jeannette Barrett Carol Barthelemy Barb Benshop Jon and Mary Jo Bishop Gene and Marilyn Bratsch Mary Ann Brown Cheri Burton-Ulmen Carolyn Cade Don Chillstrom Allen and Elizabeth Crawford Joseph and Tamra Daley Andy Davies Marlene Dickey Marjorie and Charles Elliott Robert and Carolyn Gerdes Sue and Ilja Gregor Debby Grote Judith Gyurci Anne Harmon Milton and Karen Hinman Randall and Heidi Isaak Lenore James Ronald Jensen and Judy Ostendorff Barbara Kellet Laura Langer Catherine McDougal John and Vickie McGrath Sharon Mills Alfreda Monahan Alexander, Connor and Stephen Patterson Robert and Carol Rathje Susan and Andrew Rein Gerald and Alice Schmitz Muriel Seltz Richard and Mary Snydle Marcia Stephens Lorraine Stevenson Lenore Thommes Judy Truc Diana Varecka Margaret Wangensteen Richard and Diane Wesely Nathan and Liz Willson Kathy Bacon George and Audrey Schultz Adam Barbetta John and Sheila Barbetta
David Bencini Dr. Darcy Grostick Timothy Peter Browne Ron and Lori Hume Diane E Carlson Barbara Waldoch Brian Clifford Anonymous Theresa Acevedo Katie Bredesen Rae Cornelius Patricia Cunniff Joleen Duda Patrick and Beverly Duda Margaret Faulhaber Rita Fox Steven and Cynthia Grindy Karen Heintz Mary Hillary David and Jane Kostik Dennis and Linda Maetzold Dennis and Kathryn McGuire John and Molly McShane Regan and Gerry Miller Darlene Murphy M. Ruth Mulcahy Dee Pederson Nicholas and Peggy Rolfes Karen Sames Drs. Mary and Jan Tanghe Michael and Susan Tewksbury Kaye Theony Linda and Bob Westenberg Jo Culbert James and Julie Walsh Willie Daily Jacquelyn Connelly Kelly Daily Brenda and James Rossman Kermit Dietritch Aaron and Peggy Pouliot Ryan Duffy David and Vicki Oster Greg Esch Mary and Michael Ongstad Mark and Kathy Wallraff Sandy Fine Allison and Phillip Shatzman Marvin Fish Amir and Sarah Abdelwahed Jerry and Marla Jean Alstead Stephen and Charlene Barron Ronald and Christy Bateman Angela and George Bernhardt Patricia Bill Scott and Deborah Cooper Matthew Fish and Xiaoni Niu Rosemary Fish Susan Franklin Barbara and Lon Friedman
Kristina Gjengdahl attended our day program for many years. She was planning to move into one of our homes when she passed away in December 2022. Her family acknowledged their support of NER by requesting their friends donate to Hammer & NER in lieu of flowers at her funeral. Rita Friedman Tom and Susie Gillespie Marlene Goldberg Golden Valley Country Club Michael and Ann Hofkin Denise Johnson John and Alice Johnson MaryAnne Kayiatos Kim Keprios and John Everett Rick Kleinbaum M. A. Kneeland Kathleen Kozlak Joy Leibman Dr. Richard and Joan Lentz Marshall Levin Gary and K. Diane Lichter R. J. Lusky and P. J. Eckelberry Gail Machov Terrance and Jeanine Magalis Melissa and Steve Mark Marcia Massee Rick and Jeanne Moe Renelle and Doug Nelson Tyler and Ann Nelson Roger and Joan Off
Colette Petitt Debby Saadi Jean Massaro-Simpson and Douglas J. Simpson Twin Cities Bakery Drivers Pension Fund John and Jody Tzucker The Waters Plymouth Richard and Elisabeth Wiener Margaret Wong Michael Fish’s Mother Rosemary Fish Anderson Wallace Fox Bobby Fox Nancy Estrem Fuller Margaret Kolden Robert Gavigan Allen and LaVonne Ribbe Kristina Gjengdahl Richard and Laura Abbott Kevin and Lorraine Anderson John and Cheryl Casper Matthew and Lisa Clifford Madonna Cormier Paula Erato Daggett
Discoveries | 33
Thomas and Claudia Froistad Joe and Nancy Groenjes Michael and Sarah Hagglund Ronald and Barbara Hellenthal Thomas Johnson David and Julie Jungkunz Korese & Korese PC Melissa Livermore Donald and Susan Malafa Charles J. McCarthy and Elizabeth Jacobson LuAnn Mordick Daniel Moudry Daniel Perzichilli Decilia Piche
E. J. Rodine Jean and Don Rohrer Steve and Sharon Runtsch Sue Salomone Shine Wealth- Ameriprise Financial John and Sarah Sprenzel W. Bart and Gretchen Trebnick Reverend John and Genevieve Ubel Jacquie Van Guilder Jeff and Sandy Visser Dennis Zitnak
“Simply put, Hammer & NER is the Gold Standard and I feel extremely fortunate that my daughter Leslie is part of such an extraordinary organization.” — Rosemary Fish In October of 2022, when Rosemary’s husband, and Leslie’s dad, Marvin Fish passed away, in lieu of flowers, memorials were directed to Hammer & NER. With this final act of kindness and generosity, Marvin’s legacy of selfless giving will live on at Hammer & NER.
34 | Discoveries
Bob Grahek Mark and Kathy Wallraff Becky Gromek Carol Gottschalk Bob Koltes and Becky Gromek Terry and Timothy Johnston Jo Ann Koltes Chris M Strande Joan Hall Peggy Swanson Dana Haskvitz Jake Christensen Joey and Taylor Christensen Rachel and Donald Christensen Jenna Haskvitz Ronald L. Haskvitz Trevor Lueders Sadie and Owen Sullivan Mark Hempel Kay Hempel Brad Hill Thomas P. Bedard Heidi Hirschoff Paula Hirschoff and Chuck Ludlam Richard Hoese Allen and LaVonne Ribbe Michael Houston Pat Houston and Kerry Houston Rose M. Rizzi Karen and Tim Rose Anne Johnson Sue and Ilja Gregor Colleen Kelso Debby Grote Inspire Brands Ronald Machtan Devin Sloan Sue Kerrick Kingsley and Joan Kerrick Ken Klinck Anonymous Bernie Aldrich David and Mary Bjarnason The Brawley Family Pat Camp David and Lynn Cookson Jaci Frederick Debra Hagen Loren and Kristen Heeringa Chris and Sarah Jewett Betty Jodzio Janet Kunkel Dennis and Karen Larson Helen Mason Nicole McCain Larry Moos Kenneth Nicholls Katherine Otteson Bob and Juanita Peterson Tom Peterson James Reissner Edward Robbins
Doug and Donna Schwab Eileen, Trudy, Carolyn and Tom Stead Jon Sturgis Jerry and Judy Suprenant Rob and Michelle Wolf Nancy Zeik Bill Krippner Tanya Anderson Cory and Mary Carlson Thomas Danielson Designs for Learning Special Ed Team Jerry and Irene Diedrich The Dunning Family Paula Engstrom Gary and Debra Finn Thomas and Cynthia Forster Joel and Nancy Franz LeRoy and Darlene Gilbert Jan Grabo Daniel Grossman Ruth Lange Hoffman Steve and Kay Koltes Mary Kreck Paula Krippner Ronald and Gina Krippner James and Debra Lund Sue Lynott Mark and Lynne Mahowald Andy and Karen Nelson Phillip and Lorraine Poppler Rebecca Reber Nancy Recibe Michael and Marlene Rees Linda and Michael Richardson Nandi Rieck Rose M. Rizzi Beth Thompson Duane Thompson Barb Turk Linda Waltenberg John, Gina and Gus Waterhouse Kathryn Waterhouse Deb and Thomas Williams Josseph Ladner Jean and Bill Gjetson Lisa Laura Lakemacher Joel Loer Jackie Ulrich Jeanette McChesney Richard and Debora Salhus Molly McLaughlin Christine Daniel Donald and Clova Falenczykowski John and Deborah Fox Rita Fox Tim Garry and Family Barbara Gill Peter and Karen Graff Don and Heidi Haberman
Katie Haberman Brian Hobbins Jean and Paul Jaeger Cheryl and James Johnson Peter and Lynn Larson Frances Laven Marcia and Fred LeVoir Mary Lutz Alicia Gordon Macalus Kevin and Katherine McKeon Shanna Schmitt Loras and Rosemary Sieve Adrienne McMillan Preston and Betsy McMillan Larry Menzel Ardys Nelson Barry and Mary Jo Miller Tim Nelson Wes Bue and Denise Eng Jean Nelson Lil Orenstein Herbert and Kathie Levy Nino Pedrelli Nancy Kloehn Anthony Pricco Arthur Stickley UrbanWorks Architecture LLC Joe Pomerleau Elizabeth and Bruce Pankonin Jim Rieder Barry and Mary Jo Miller Sue Ring The 614 Company Gayle Appelbaum Steve Arenson Amy and Stan Baratz Melanie Barry Kiki and Larry Berg Jonathan and Joanna Berger Paul and Carlyn Blum Gary and Stacey Bush Sara Eisenberg Miriam Freidson Sue Garnett Bob and Sue Greenberg Andrew and Suzanne Grossman Mark and Miriam Kieffer Laura King Nancy Kolb Jeffrey Koval Hart and Susie Kuller Jeff and Diane Lovich Sheila Morgan Susan and Michael Oreck Gary and Susan Rappaport Chuck and Yvonne Selcer Carol Shapiro
Jeffrey and Cari Shaw Nan Shaw Sandra Teichner Bob and Jeanniie Zaikaner-Fink Wallace Roles Jill Berthiaume Alvin and Julie Blau Teresa and Mathew Callahan Tom and Shelly Harris The Hennen Family Cori Hintzman Jeff and Lisa Niederloh Bradley and Kelly Roles Maria Zimmerman Mary Rutkowski Anonymous Barbara and Bill Brandt Ruth Foley William and Claudia Fyten Raymond and Leslie Gaffney James and Susan Hansen John and Alice Johnson Rose M. Rizzi Marjorie Rutkowski Gregory and Debra Schmit Suzie Saarela Rebecca and Ron Furnival Christopher Schlechter Elaine and Mark Taggatz Alan Schmitt Barbara Waldoch Susan Seymour Macy and Tracy Seymour Mary Shirley Jenna Haskvitz Chuck Speerschneider Jean and Bill Gjetson Steve Tart Thomas and Constance Tart Barbara Tenney Michael and Barbara Tenney Patricia Thayer Sue Thayer Robert Tjossem Barbara and Bill Brandt Jerry and Marie Tuckner Mary and Michael Ongstad Phil and Myra Toconita Anne Tulloch Priscilla Lundin Vivian Wallraff Mary and Michael Ongstad Barbara Tuckner Mark and Kathy Wallraff John Wicks Nancy Wilson Jean and Bill Gjetson
Alysha Klinck with her dad, Kenneth Klinck, who danced into Heaven on May 19 and is now pain-free and in peace. Ken is also survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Jean; and son, BJ (Whitney) Klinck. Ken believed in community involvement and gave his time freely to help serve adults with special needs acrosss MN. He left a legacy that will not be forgotten.
Bev Wright Eleanor and Ivan Skoog David Easton Marilyn Shapiro Bruce Simon Susan and Michael Oreck Lane Laddusaws sister Peggy Shirley McMonagle Char Montei Alonzo Moses Mary Beth Mozzocchi’s mother Marcy Pearlman Amanda and Mark Prokopowicz infant son
Deb Wirz Verl Wiseheart Josh Wimmergren John and Vicki Pink Gary Bottiger David Bauman Wilbert, Kathryn and Michael Becker Rose M. Rizzi Eva Krause Greg Pfeiffer’s mother Marc Rosenberg Alan and Connie Wilensky
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EMPLOYEE GIVING Donations from October 1, 2022 – September 30, 2023
We are proud to acknowledge our staff members who have chosen to make financial donations to Hammer & NER through payroll deductions and one-time donations. They see first-hand the tremendous impact of donor dollars in the lives of co-workers and those we support.
Kim Hansen, Director of Employee Experience, is pictured with her partner Mickey Joldzic. She has worked at Hammer since 1978 when she began doing direct care. For 19 years, she has been making a personal financial donation through payroll deductions. She oversees Education Grants, the Emergency Car Repair Program, and Service Awards and knows more than anyone else the importance of fundraising to support the work of Hammer & NER. As she prepares to retire in December, Kim plans to continue her financial support as a monthly donor. “I am proud of all that I accomplished in my career at Hammer & NER and humbled by the kindness of so many donors who made it all possible.”
36 | Discoveries
Dianne Berg
Abdimalik Mohamud
Angela Bernhardt
Katherine Noon
Joan Boerschinger
Maima Parker
Kelly and Brian Bosch
Jill Peters
Dan and Kate Bottiger
Kristin and Duane Pyka
Barbara and Bill Brandt
Nate and Kari Reed
Aaron Briggs
Rachel Revels
Michael Bryant
Rose M. Rizzi
Tomeko Champion-Patrick
Colleen Roberts
Suzanne and Bill Christianson
Emily and Dan Robillard
Joe and Tahni Cullen
Thomas Russeth
Lin and Fred Curran
Cate Saracen Peters and Gordy
Christine Daniel
Peters
Ashley Emerson
Elizabeth Schrul
Tim Eshelman
Michael and Janice Shay
John Estrem
Cari and Jeff Sheley
Kyle and Steven Fitzwater
Jacob Snell
Justin Fulakollie
Christ and Rachel Southa
Lisa and John Greenberg
Isabel Sultana
Kim Hansen and Mickey Joldzic
Michele Swanson
Mark and Lynn Hansen
Esther Swen
Patty and Ben Hastings
Cathy and Morgan Thoma
Lisa and Rick Heroff
Kevin Borer and Ellen
Jennifer L. Hipple
Timmerman-Borer
Jan Hopper
Jerry Towianski
Elizabeth and Jim Hoskyn
Diana Vang
Momo J. Johnson
Ginger and Tom Venable
Toni and Brad Knorr
Samantha Vokaty
Sue and John Legeros
Sue and Kim Walker
Ann and Robert Martinka
Dennis Zelee
William Mbu Kevin McLaughlin Stefanie Miller
IN HONOR OF | Donations from October 1, 2022 – September 30, 2023 Thank you for making a gift in honor of someone special. 14th Avenue Staff Steve and Mary Bunnell Anderson and Patterson Families Carol Patterson Arcade Staff Kathy and Greg Carlson Arrive Staff Renelle and Doug Nelson Anne Bailey Leigh Bailey and Freda Marver Jimmy Bieber Ward and Kris Brehm Suzanne and David Goodwin Patrick R. Lewis Lew+ and Jill Mithun Ray and Mary Mithun Ben and Mary Stephens Broadway Staff and Patterson Family Mary Patterson Michael Butler James and Judith Hardek Riley Anne Christensen Ronald L. Haskvitz Mary Coleman Margaret and John Abdo Currie House Staff Scott Bocklund and Peggy HillBocklund The DeAngelis Family Anne Freeman and Christopher Higgins Sharla Duerre Birthday Donna Friedman Danielle Dunaski Tom and Char Dunaski Marlene and Daniel Ebert Dawn and Paxton Jevnick Ellen Eid Lisa Hannum Mary Fedor Judy Ferretti First Avenue Staff Sarah Homuth-Goar Leslie Fish Debbie Cisewski Gardner Staff Kathy Ganzer and David C. Piehl Joshua Giemza Jerry and Laura Jensen Sarah Homuth Goar Brittany Porrazzo Brock Hamilton John and Kathy Hamilton
Hammer Staff Lisa and Scott Dongoske Vicki Jackman Mary Patterson Ron Haskvitz Jenna Haskvitz Andrea Simonett Holdridge Staff Kevan and Laurie Nitzberg Liz Hoskyn at Queensland Judy Gelina Sara Husfeldt and Rockford Staff George Hamilton John and Alice Johnson Jersey Staff Sherri and Steve Johnson Kentucky Staff Linda and Bob Tomaschko Sam Krainak Ann Catherwood Ginny and John Worthington LaBore House Staff Mark Hartman Lake Place Staff Drs. Mary and Jan Tanghe Paul Lambert John and Chrisse Bonnes Lancaster Staff Mitch and Judi Marie Ringe Mary LaRouche Warren and Patty Park Lawndale Staff Linda and Bob Tomaschko Alex Lindblad Phil and Barb Lindblad Bob Lockwood Bruce Baumeister John Patterson Magnum Nancy Mangum Denise Mulvaney Jan Blount Janet Kopchinski Nelson Place Staff Ronald and Shirley Vescio Travis Nitzberg Corly and Nick Jones Michael and Sue Oreck Anniversary Gena and Joe Janetka Allison and Phillip Shatzman Faith Shatzman
Farah/Peterson Wedding Hailee Clark Morgan Gallo Dr. Sonu Joseph Dr. Andrew Mekhail Larry Myers Daniel Powell Erik Wellman David Plocek Douglas and Pam Plocek Rob Reisgraf Elaine Loeffler Renew Staff Cal and Katy Dirks Michael Patterson and Deborah Hollman Rose Rizzi Margaret J Bauman Robert and Susan Burns Emily Robbilard Mary Plank Andy Seymour Constance Jennison Patrick Shay Michael and Janice Shay Cari Sheley Rick Lang and Mary Beth Olson Trish Tennyson Sheridan Staff Mary and Michael Ongstad Sumac Staff Rosemary Fish Andy Tanghe Donald and Clova Falenczykowski
Ruth Tita and Stone Creek Staff Christine Poppe Janet Tuckner Carla Warner Tyler Staff Elaine and Mark Taggatz Vicksburg Village Staff Scott Bocklund and Peggy HillBocklund Matt Weiss Allison and Phillip Shatzman Steve Wilmes Diane Bruns Kristen Wivell Todd Steger Zealand Staff Jane and Don Shaffer Mark and Wendy Yungner Carlson Home Staff Doug Hanna Kerry Houston James McKune Michelle Nelson Gretchen Ribbe Judy Tombers Jean Vit Rose Rizzi Dr. Mitch Bender Gena and Joe Janetka Anniversary Steve Kozberg Merton and Leslee Shapiro Anniversary Michael and Sue Oreck
Enjoying the annual Luau
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CELEBRATING OUR RETIREES Hammer & NER Board of Directors
THEIR LONG CAREERS AND CONTRIBUTIONS SUPPORTED OUR MISSION
Blaine Stephens Board Chair Perforce
BARB MATTER - DIRECTOR OF QUALITY ASSURANCE
Bhuvana Nandakumar Vice President Suparbh Consulting Victor Sugumar Board Treasurer Thrivent Financial Julie Wesley-Wong Board Secretary Osseo School District Don Haberman Board Member Markwest, Inc. Greg Hanson Board Member MATTER Tim Haugen Board Member Senior Vice President Huntington National Bank Robert Lockwood Board Member Retired Executive, Cardinal Laurie Moga Board Member Mahtomedi School District Michelle Olson Board Member RN, Retired Mitch Ringe Board Member General Mills, Retired Barb Peterson Board Member Clinical Professor, School of Nursing University of Minnesota Kevin Walli Board Member Fryberger, Buchanan, Smith & Frederick, Retired
38 | Discoveries
By Sue Walker, Chief Program Officer Barb’s 42-year career with Hammer began in 1981 when she was fresh out of college with a degree in social work. She was hired as a resident counselor (a title which later became Direct Support Professional) and was later promoted to Program Manager and then became a Program Director. Barb has overseen our utilization review for many years (state mandated semi-annual survey) and helped with our internal quality assurance of our waivered homes. She is the guru of ICF regulations. Barb has been a strong mentor and teacher for managers. She nurtures them, teaches them, holds them accountable. She does the same for staff so they can provide the best care for the people they support. Barb spends a lot of time fostering those relationships and making sure they know their job and do it well.
Barb at our Reach for Ralph event
Barb has a really soft heart, a huge heart. She has focused on the people we support who have the highest needs. She advocates for them to make their lives as person-centered and full and rich as possible. Barb will stop by one of our homes because she knows someone would like to have their hair brushed or braided or she knows they’ll finish napping at 1:30 and she’ll show up at 2:00 to visit with them. She’ll go over to a home (even if she’s wearing her little pointy heels) to help with a transfer because she knows there is a new staff person. Barb says our mission of living life to the fullest is the little things we do with and for each other.
Barb with Mickey, supported by Hammer & NER
CRAIG MEINKE – PROJECT MANAGER, MAINTENANCE By Lin Curran, Chief of Operations and Fred Curran, Director of Maintenance, East Office Craig retired earlier this year after working on NER’s maintenance team for over 20 years. Fred recruited Craig when NER began adding more and more homes—in fact, NER doubled in size every seven years. Each home needed to be modified to meet the needs of those who would live there. Craig was very hands on and would take on projects like building decks, replacing flooring, building retaining walls, and doing lots of bathroom remodels. He wasn’t afraid to tackle any project. Craig was always there to respond to emergencies when they arose. He could be relied on to go the extra mile.
Craig Meinke
Craig also worked as a project coordinator and would go out and get bids if we had to have people come in and do the work. Craig was quiet, but friendly. He worked well with the people we support and enjoyed interacting with them. He had a genuine care and concern for them. Their health and safety and well-being came first. He was also a very kind gentleman and always had a smile on his face. Craig and Fred
DIANNE BERG – LEAD DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL By Kim Hansen, Director of Employee Experience Dianne Berg is retiring from her role as the Lead Direct Support Professional at our west metro Lakeside home. Dianne joined Hammer Residences in 1986, after working as an occupational therapist. She has a B.A. in education. She started at the second group home we opened, the Tyler home, in Hopkins. Over the years, she has worked at our Tyler, Black Oaks, Merrimac, and Cedarwood homes. When she came to Hammer, Dianne says she got to know every person we supported. She did a lot of multiple-home management as a Program Manager and Program Director. However, she found she preferred doing direct care—the “day-to-day stuff.”
Dianne sporting a SHINE t-shirt in honor of DSP Recognition Week
Dianne is a super-talented sewer and enjoys doing crafts and various creative endeavors. One year she knitted a hat for the Ralph statue in front of the Hammer West office and later made him a big scarf, too. She made cloth masks when COVID-19 first hit. In addition, Dianne has sewed many Memory Bears, a special memento made from the favorite clothing of a loved one who has passed away. That’s just an example of the caring and thoughtful person Dianne is.
Dianne makes Memory Bears for those who have lost a loved one
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