2022 Winter Discoveries

Discoveries

MEET FRANK!

He has received a lifetime of loving care as a member of our east metro NER family.

Read his story on pages 4–5

As we navigate our lives and emerge from these past three years of uncertainty, I am reminded of how, as an organization, we are always evolving, adapting, and changing. And one thing that is certain: time does not stand still . We must embrace the fact that these things are happening all at once, at the speed of light, as we continue to deliver quality services to the people we support.

I am truly thankful for the dedicated staff at our organization who daily provide people with intellectual and other disabilities the opportunity to live life to its fullest. Alvina Hammer believed this 100 years ago, and a group of families from the east metro were also passionate about this 50 years ago and founded Northeast Residence, and today, their vision continues to live on within our mission.

Hammer Residences and Northeast Residence will officially (legally) become one organization in January 2023. Now, as we become one, we are honored to become one of the largest nonprofit residential services providers in Minnesota.

During our celebratory year of 2023, we will commemorate each of our pasts and look to the future together with great excitement of making an impact in the lives of people with intellectual and other disabilities.

In this edition of Discoveries , you will read about the impact we have made together, as partners in this work. Whether it is donating to help us build incentives to retain staff or for home improvements to help people age in their homes or offering your time to volunteer with a person we support or advocating for legislative change, each of these, brought together, builds momentum to strengthen and enrich our organization.

We cannot do this work without YOU, our dedicated and generous supporters who stand by us throughout this incredible journey. Thank you for making it possible for Hammer and NER to fulfill our mission every day.

Blessings,

John Estrem, CEO Hammer Residences and Northeast Residence

Blaine Stephens

Michael Drazan

Julie Wesley-Wong

by Laurie Moga, NER Board Member and Volunteer

Ioriginally got involved with Northeast Residence (NER) in 1983. My brother, Pat, had used the respite program for a few years, so after I graduated from high school, I applied for a job and worked there during two of my summer breaks and winter midterms while going to college. I worked with some great staff and I loved working with the variety of people who came through the respite program.

After I graduated with a marketing degree, I thought I’d get a job in that field, but things changed. I got married then found myself drawn back to NER in 1989. I worked at NER part-time while raising my four children. After nearly 30 years, I left in 2018. For 20 of those years, I was a lead staff and worked with many wonderful parents who entrusted their loved ones to our care. In 2020, I found myself getting drawn back to NER once again, this time to serve on the Board of Directors.

After our father passed away, Pat continued to live with my mother, but as she aged that became more difficult for her. NER was starting to open more homes, and the opportunity came up for Pat to move into the Arcade home in the early ‘90s. He has lived there ever since. Pat has had many of the same roommates, house parents, and several dedicated staff for many years. He loves where he lives and they have become a big happy extended family.

I am very excited for the future of NER now that we have combined with Hammer. I see so much potential and growth opportunities. I’m astounded by the large number of dedicated volunteers Hammer has. I’m invested and want the best for our organization and feel I can be a voice for all the wonderful people we serve now and into the future.

My husband and I have four grown children plus four grandchildren that keep us very busy. I have worked for the Mahtomedi School District for 16 years. I started with K-2 as a special ed para and for the past five years have worked as a job coach in our Transition program working with young adults. I also volunteer at our church and work part time as a care

From left, Laurie with her brother, Pat, and their sister, Mary Wigstrom.

companion for an elderly woman. Let’s just say I like to keep busy.

No matter how busy I am, I know that the joint mission of Hammer and NER is important. I’m glad I can invest time and financial resources into organizations that are making a big impact for so many people and their families.

Discoveries

Laurie Moga Mahtomedi School District

Kevin Walli Fryberger, Buchanan, Smith & Frederick

Frank’s Story

Frank Palony has Spent a Lifetime in Our Care

by Lin Curran, Chief of East Metro Operations

Frank has been a member of our (east metro) NER family most of his life, going back to 1975 when he was 8 years old and moved into our ICF home. This was just two years after Northeast Residence opened its doors in what was a former convent in downtown White Bear Lake. There were eight other people in the home at the time. Frank is one of the original people we’ve cared for. He is also the first person I worked with when I came to NER 35 years ago.

Frank has Down syndrome and has always had poor eyesight and other health issues. He is also nonverbal. Frank has been self-injurious since I have known him. He would thump his temples with his knuckles—so much so that he could create deep sores on his temples and the knuckles of his fingers would become infected quite often. We would sit with him (sometimes two of us on stressful days for him) to soothe him while also putting our hand between his knuckles and temple. Gradually, magazines were placed on his arms so that he could not bend them, slowing him down from self harming. Eventually, professional arm splints were created to prevent him from seriously harming himself. Later, we put red boxing gloves on his hands and slowly transitioned him to a glove with fingers and then to biker gloves, the fingerless

ones, which allow for range of motion.

Frank has always loved holding soft sensory items. I think it fills a sensory need, so he doesn’t hurt himself. He also loves chocolate milk. When he was younger, Frank would take staff by the hand and walk to the kitchen. He would get the milk out of the refrigerator and then stand in front of the cupboard and stomp his foot, which communicated he wanted his Nesquik (had to be chocolate). He would drink the entire glass in one or two gulps. This typically would be followed by a screech of pure joy and a huge smile.

When my daughter, Brion, was little, I’d bring Frank to my house, and he’d help push her in the stroller when we went for walks. One time, when we were still in the convent, I took him for a walk, and it was around rush hour. On our way back (next to Hwy 61), Frank decided to sit down on the sidewalk, and we simply watched traffic for about an hour before he got back up and we walked the two blocks back to the convent. (By the way, Brion has worked at NER for 20 years!)

In the early ’90s, we moved all nine people out of the convent and into a large home in White Bear Lake. Then, Frank moved into a four-person waivered home with three peers from the ICF and later to the Currie home in 2016. Frank was still very

Rich Olson worked with Frank for many years.

mobile but slowing down. However, his eyesight gradually became much worse, which may have contributed to him not wanting to move or walk around. In fact, Frank was becoming more homebound and wasn’t walking a lot.

Several months ago, Frank ended up in the hospital and doctors found a blood clot. He was put on medication and was also deemed nonmobile by his doctor. After he was discharged, Frank would express pain when staff transferred him from his wheelchair to the sofa, toilet, bed, etc. Helping someone transfer when you’re down to one staff person in the home can be difficult when you also have three other people to care for. But this is the reality of the ongoing staffing shortages. Eventually, Frank wouldn’t transfer to the toilet so would just soil his briefs and staff would then need to transfer him to his bed to change and clean him but that was also painful for Frank. One of our nurses, Brandi, and Megan, Currie’s Program Director, discussed trying physical therapy to strengthen Frank’s leg muscles, making it less painful for him to stand and do pivot transfers. Thankfully, after about six weeks of physical therapy, Frank was able to stand up from a seated position and walk to nearby rooms simply by holding the hand of a staff person. His mood was also improving. Frank’s doctor discontinued the medication as she is no longer concerned about future blood clots at this time.

By September, Frank was walking a lot more throughout the day with staff assistance. He enjoys sitting in front of the window when the sun is shining to feel the warmth on his face or going out on the deck. We are so glad Frank is a member of our NER family. Our goal is to do everything we can to keep him with us as he ages and his needs continue to grow. After all, Frank is an original and we love him. Frank loves spending time outdoors enjoying the sun.

CELEBRATE A CAREGIVER!

by Jennifer L. Hipple, Communication Specialist

Our Celebrate a Caregiver program spotlights our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and Lead DSPs who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of those they serve. One nominee from our (west metro) Hammer homes and one from our (east metro) NER homes are selected each month and receive a $25 gift card of their choice as a token of our appreciation.

Meet Our Latest Recipients!

JUNE

JULY

Monti Patrick is a DSP at our west metro Royal Oaks home. Monti has been a consistent presence for over 10 years. He knows the people we serve so well and how to handle when they are upset. He uses humor to cheer them up or redirect agitation or frustration. Monti can navigate the challenges of the job because of his experience and the trust our people have in him.

AUGUST

William Odame is a DSP at our east metro Rolling View home. William always has a positive attitude and adapts easily to rapid change. The day program pick-up times have been changed a couple of times, but William is always willing to adjust his time/schedule so that the people we support are able to get ready in the morning and are on time for their buses.

Julia Barnhill is a DSP at our west metro Gardner home. Julia takes the initiative to get things done such as grocery shopping, cleaning, and helping with cares. She gets the ladies involved in activities they enjoy such as trips to famers’ markets, the library, shopping, movies, the zoo, and Color Me Mine (pottery studio). Julia can always be counted on and picks up extra shifts when needed.

Kevin Heroff is a Float DSP for our east metro homes. Kevin is always flexible and willing to switch sites at a moment’s notice. He has an incredible ability to go into a home he’s never worked at before and take great care of the individuals living there without missing a beat. We have counted on Kevin in times of crisis and for training new employees.

Quita Kialain is a DSP at our west metro Stone Creek home. Quita helps with extra shifts and is often called on to work at other Hammer homes. She is kind and fun and always person centered when caring for and interacting with the people she serves. Quita goes above and beyond, always being flexible and having a positive attitude.

Paul Roberts is a Float DSP for our east metro homes. Paul takes the time to get to know and understand the people we serve to provide the best care possible. He is a people person and a strong communicator and can reach the people we serve on a different level than simply “care giving.” They are always excited to see him and respect him as well.

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

In September, in keeping with National DSP Recognition Week, we chose to honor all our direct care staff. We appreciate all of them for the work they do each day.

Bill Pugh is a Lead DSP at our west metro Plymouth Colony apartment program. Bill is passionate about the job and dedicated to providing the people we serve with the best care possible. Just as importantly, Bill is always willing to go to other programs and work beyond his regular assignments. He goes the extra mile no matter where he’s working.

Christine Hagen is a Float DSP for our east metro homes. Christine has made a positive impact in the lives of the people we serve at nearly all our east metro locations. Her ability to adapt to new settings and new people quickly and positively is invaluable. Serving everyone according to their unique needs isn’t always a simple task, but Christine does this with ease.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION

Pam Norman, who works at our west metro Sumac home, was a finalist for the ARRM Cares Award, which recognizes direct care staff (in MN) who go above and beyond in providing exceptional support to individuals with disabilities.

Pam has a natural ability to understand a person’s needs by being a great listener and using her knowledge and resources to connect those we serve with the greater community. Pam has a talent for helping the people we serve make goals for themselves and take steps to accomplish them.

THE BIG FAMILY DAY PICNIC

A 70-YEAR TRADITION WELCOMES NEW FAMILIES AND FRIENDS!

by Jennifer L. Hipple, Communication Specialist

In September, Hammer Residences hosted our annual Family Day Picnic—the first one in three years—outside our Central Offices. This is a special day for the families and people we serve as well as our staff and their families to come together for some fun, hopefully a little sun, and lots of good food and music!

The Family Day Picnic has been an annual event going back to the 1950s when they were known as the “Hammer School Family Day Picnics.” They were held on the grounds of the Hammer School—a park-like setting, dotted with trees—which later became the Hammer parking lot. (The surroundings sure have changed!) Families brought their own picnic lunches, often in large wicker baskets (Hammer provided beverages and dessert). Searching the archives, we found photos of the young people square dancing. Families were invited to visit Hammer’s school classrooms as well as the dorms where their children lived.

Today, our east metro (NER) families, loved ones, and staff are also a key part of keeping the Family Day Picnic tradition going. This year, over 400 people came out to picnic with us. According to our Director of Volunteer Resources, Cathy Thoma, it takes about 50 volunteers to help things run smoothly. Volunteers help with managing the buffet line, organizing games, doing face painting, helping with administrative tasks, and more. We couldn’t do it without them!

Hammer’s Chief Program Officer, Sue Walker, recently reminisced about the picnic. “The picnic has certainly changed with the times,” she says. “I love to see pictures from the very early years when people wore dresses and suits as ‘proper’ picnic attire. In the late ’70s and early ’80s, I remember hand churning ice cream for everyone. Now we have incorporated games and activities put together by our Community Life team, and the dancing and music is such a fun part of it as well. Through all these years, this event is a tradition that represents us as a family. It’s really a blessing.”

We hope that another 70 years from now, families and staff will look back on photos from today and reminisce on the traditions we uphold and create. Surely, one thing that has not changed since Alvina Hammer first opened our doors in 1923 is our dedication to providing the homes and services the people we serve rely on to live their best lives.

THE GREAT LUAU OF 2022!

BRINGING BACK A MUCH-LOVED TRADITION

by Jennifer L. Hipple, Communication Specialist

For nearly 20 years, the NER Luau has been a much-anticipated source of “can’t-wait-for-it-to-gethere” excitement for staff and the people they serve. While it originally began as a Hale home event, it has greatly expanded over the years.

her next position. “Over the years we’ve made a few changes,” Michelle says, “like not making homemade potato salad for hundreds of people. It was a lot of work, so we started getting stuff pre-made and using caterers.”

Sondra agrees. “In the early years, we had more staff and could all sit and chop for hours. It was insane. I was young back then,” she says.

The luaus had to be canceled in 2020 and 2021 (due to COVID-19), which was disappointing for everyone. “We never canceled before,” Michelle says. “It was important to get the luaus back for them.”

In 2003, Sondra Hampton was the Program Manager of the Hale home. “We wanted to host a picnic for the people we served and their families,” she says. The first year, the staff organized a BBQ at Richard Walton Park in Oakdale. It wasn’t long before families and their loved ones from several of the NER homes were also invited to attend. It was a great way for people to make friends among the homes.

Michelle Hartmann joined the Hale home staff in 2008 and adopted the annual luau when Sondra moved on to

This summer, NER and Hammer happily hosted the first luau since 2019. Nearly 300 family members and their loved ones, along with staff and volunteers came together for the event. “Some of the newer people who hadn’t experienced it were impressed that we’re doing this for their families,” Sondra says.

“The people from Hammer really stepped up,” Michelle says. “They did the invites and found volunteers for a serving line. A daughter from one of the (west metro) Hammer families helped dish out food. That was awesome to see.”

After nearly 20 years, the basics of the luau continue. “We have great food,

games and prizes, a photography booth, and we still use the same DJ,” Michelle says. “He knows what people like and gets them out on the floor. We need to get back to people wearing the luau clothes, though--Hawaiian shirts and grass skirts. Regardless, it’s a great time. The families look forward to it. It’s important for them to see us come together to do this for their children.”

“MARY MONDAYS” MEAN FRIENDSHIP AND FUN!

by Cathy Thoma, Director of Volunteer Resources

The universe works in mysterious ways. At least it does for Mary Bradley. About five years ago, Mary was watching a movie with a lead character who had Down syndrome. Mary had a sudden, strong feeling that she was meant to volunteer with individuals with developmental disabilities. Only she didn’t know how to get started. Then a year ago, she was sorting through the mail at work and came across an invitation to an event from NER. Mary checked out the website, sent an email to inquire about volunteering, and immediately got a response. The rest is history!

Mary has been volunteering with the women at our east metro County Road F home for the past year. She visits with them every other week to do a variety of activities. These include playing games and making arts and crafts. Sometimes they all sit outside by the firepit and just chat. As a former pastry chef, Mary helps guide them while baking seasonal cookies and desserts. The women are very proud of how delicious their baked goods turn out.

One evening, Mary stopped by the house to say hello and was persuaded to stay and watch “Dancing with the Stars.” One of the women, Linda, happens to be a big fan of the show, and now Mary is too! Over the holidays last year, Mary went with the women and staff to see the scary Halloween house next door. Then they went for a ride to see the holiday lights. Whatever they want to do, Mary is there for them. She feels that the best part of volunteering is just getting to be with the women of the County Road F home.

“I love them,” Mary says. “I know it sounds sappy, but I do. We bonded almost instantly and have become good friends.”

The women at County Road F feel the same way. “She is fun,” “she is a good baker,” “she helps me to cook,” “I like when she plays games with us,” “she likes me and she is kind to us,” and “I am happy when it is a Mary Monday,” are some of the comments we’ve heard.

The home’s Program Manager, Jeanne Ottman, says she appreciates Mary’s time and her wonderful ways with the ladies. “I know she makes each of them feel special,” she says.

When asked what she would say to someone considering volunteering with us, Mary said, “Just do it! The individuals you meet have so much to say and so much love to share.”

Thank you for Mary, for making “Mary Mondays” so special.

Left: Virjean displaying her first completed cookie!

Above, left to right: Sandy, Missy, Mary Bradley (volunteer), Virjean, and Linda. Above, left to right: Sandy with Mary Bradley who volunteers at the County Road F home in the east metro.

Left: Linda with her favorite cookie she decorated.

SPEAKING UP FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH DISABILITIES

WE NEED LEGISLATIVE CHANGE AND SUPPORT

by Mary Gaasch, Director of Advocacy and Community Relations

In October, Jacob Snell, the Program Manager for our west metro (Hammer) Royal Oaks program and I attended ANCOR’s Policy Summit in Washington, DC. ANCOR (American Network of Community Options and Resources) is our national trade association and a leading voice in Washington for providers for people with disabilities. We met with leaders from across the country to plan policy initiatives and build relationships.

Jacob and I also went to Capitol Hill to meet with our representatives to discuss policy proposals that would invest in our care infrastructure. We shared the grim results of ANCOR’s most recent survey of providers nationwide. In some states the system that serves people with disabilities is near collapse. Other states, like Oklahoma, used money from the American Rescue Plan Act to provide significant increases to disability services.

I also represent Hammer and NER on the Board of Directors for the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, which led to an exciting opportunity to build support in the Minnesota Legislature. I was invited to a conversation with Department of Economic Development (DEED) commissioner Steve Grove. Commissioner Grove wanted to hear from nonprofits about their needs and concerns before developing DEED’s legislative agenda for 2023. Nonprofits are vital partners in every initiative the legislature undertakes. I spoke about the support we need for our workforce which has been facing serious shortages for quite some time.

Following the recent 2022 midterm elections, we have many new legislators who will be sworn in in January. Some will replace our long-term champions. We have a big job on our hands getting to know them and helping them to get to know us. Now is the best time to build these critical relationships, before the session starts and they get very busy.

We need YOUR help.

First, do you know who your legislators are? Find out here and sign up for their newsletters and follow them on social media: www.sos.state.mn.us/electionsvoting/election-results

Second, please take the time to introduce yourself to your new legislator. You can email or phone their office and ask if they would be willing to visit a Hammer home or chat over Zoom. Feel free to share any updates with me at maryg@ hammer.org. As always, you can reach out to me with any questions you may have, or for help in connecting with your representatives at the state or national level. I’m always up for even a cup of coffee together!

(From left) Mary Gaasch and Jacob Snell visited Senator Amy Klobuchar’s office with other Minnesotans who work in disability services.

FOR THE HEROFFS, NER IS THE FAMILY BUSINESS

by Jennifer L. Hipple, Communication Specialist

One of the things Hammer Residences and Northeast Residence (NER) have in common is a workplace culture supportive of staff who have met and married or employees who encourage family members to apply for jobs with the organization. The Heroff family has taken that to heart: Lisa Heroff, along with her three adult children, all work at NER.

Lisa joined the NER finance team part time in 1996. She had three young children at the time. Her daughter, Kate, was 5 years old and her twin sons, Kyle and Kevin, were 9. A few months later, she accepted a full-time position and today she is NER’s Director of Finance. One might say it was natural that Kevin, Kyle, and Kate would gravitate toward NER. “We lived in White Bear Lake and my kids grew up with NER and would go to all the events with me,” Lisa says.

NER opened an extended day/after-school program across the street from the kids’ school. Kevin and Kyle started working there after school when they were 15. “School let out at 2 p.m. and we’d walk across the street and hang out with the young

adults and children for a few hours,” Kevin says. “It didn’t seem like work, it was fun. It was something Kyle and I did until we were 18 and then we also picked up one weekend shift a month up in Hugo.” When they went to college, they came home one weekend a month to work at NER. Kate also began working part time at NER when she was 15 years old.

After college, Kevin, Kyle, and Kate each decided they wanted to stay connected to NER. Kevin accepted a job as a program supervisor at the Cedarwood home. “I did program coordinator duties, taking care of the books, making appointments, attending to medical management, and staffing. It was a lot of responsibility for a first job out of college.” He later became one of NER’s first full-time weekend relief float employees. Today, he supports 19 of NER’s homes.

Kyle became a special education teacher and works in the Roseville School District. He covers one weekend shift a month, alternating between two of NER’s homes in Hugo and then works there full-time in the summers.

Meet the Heroffs! From left: Kyle, Kate, Lisa, and Kevin.

After college, Kate went to Uganda for a year. When she returned, she accepted a full-time job at NER as a float supervisor supervising staff at multiple sites. In 2019, Kate began working at 3M full-time, while continuing on the float team picking up occasional weekend shifts. About a year ago, she accepted a full-time sleepover position with NER while still working her full-time position at 3M. “I’ve always wanted to keep my foot in at NER, for fulfillment,” she says.

Lisa says she believes being involved at NER at such a young age shaped who her children became. “All three have worked here for more than half of their lives,” she says. “The compassion, the patience—for Kyle to be a special ed teacher, that probably wouldn’t have happened without NER—and for Kevin and Kate not wanting to let go. None of them ever wanted to let go.”

Kate agrees. “It carried over into other areas of my life. It’s affected the way I look at life,” she says. “Growing up around people with disabilities, we didn’t see them other than just people who needed a little more help.”

Thank you Lisa, Kate, Kyle, and Kevin for all you do for the people we serve!

Kyle and Tom at our Hugo B home.

Kate and Sandra at our County Road F home.

Kevin with Paula at our Gramsie home.

WE ARE THANKFUL FOR OUR MONTHLY SUPPORTERS!

by Nate Reed, NER Development, Fundraising Manager

We are so thankful for the loyal support of our monthly donors. Their gifts have a substantially positive impact on the lives of the people we serve. They help to fund home improvement and accessibility projects which enable those we support to age in place as their needs change. They also help to fund special activities and outings which are so important for social stimulation and well-being.

We are thankful to donors like Steve and Debbie Morelan and their daughter, Amanda Trnka, who have been longtime monthly supporters of Northeast Residence.

“We give because NER has been a huge part of our son's life for the past 30 years and they deserve our continued support.”

— Steve and Deb

“I donate because I have been affiliated with NER in one way or another since 2008. I truly believe in the mission and work that is done there. I know the funds are greatly needed, and I believe that we all need to invest in the organizations and people we value most in life!”

— Amanda

Making a monthly gift is an easy way to support Hammer and NER. Thank you, Steve, Deb, and Amanda and to all our donors, for helping carry out our mission.

If you would like to become a monthly donor, please contact Nate Reed at nreed@nerinc.org

Monthly donors Steve and Debbie Morelan with their daughter, Amanda Trnka, and their grandson. (The photos here and on the next page were taken at our Fall Breakfast in October.)

Lucy is supported at our west metro Unity home. She is pictured here with her parents, Terri and Rick McCarthy.

Left to right: Sandra, Angie, Karen, and Paula are supported at our east metro Gramsie home.

NORTHEAST

$10,000+

Fred C. and Katherine B. Andersen Foundation St Croix Valley Foundation

$1,000-$5,000

Melissa Brunsvold and Barb Peterson

Kelly and Theresa Daily John Estrem

Robert Lockwood MidCountry Bank

Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures John Tulloch

$500-$999

Anonymous

The Connexus Energy Foundation

David Ewert

Lisa and Rick Heroff

Laurie and Doug Moga Steve and Debbie Morelan Sharon Pipes Success Fitness & Traning Center

Gary and Mary Williams

$100-$499

Rebecca Bollinger Toy Bouley Diane Bruns Mary Connelly

Lin and Fred Curran Andre Dube

Tom and Char Dunaski

East Metro Lutheran Action Council (EMLAC) Mark and Mary Hartman Sharon and Sandy Hindahl Aleda and Roy Jacobson

Keller Golf Course

Mari Kook

Carol McFarlane

Bob and Diane Morse

Ed and Mary Oberg Richard Passolt

Kevin and Susan Pipes Nate and Kari Reed Corrine and Denny Schmidt Amanda Trnka Kevin Walli

Under $100

Anonymous 7 Vines Vineyard

AmazonSmile

David Behrman

Angela and George Bernhardt Nancy Brainerd

Terry and Nancy Emerson Mark and Lynn Hansen

Kingsley and Joan Kerrick

Dale and Jackie Kruse

Britt Lampert Joan Loer

Randy and Miriam Mark

Kevin and Ann Martin

Lucille Nadeau

Thomas Oelkers

Michelle and Steve Olson Steven Ricciardi

Eleanor Skoog

Karla Spaeth

Triple Shift Entertainment Jackie Ulrich Sandra Weaver White Bear Meadery

In Honor of Anonymous

33rd Avenue Staff

Robert Lockwood

Allen House Staff

Kelly and Theresa Daily Willie

David Behrman

Nancy Brainerd

Terry and Nancy Emerson

Joan Loer

Randy and Miriam Mark Kristina Mossong

Steven Ricciardi

Karla Spaeth Jackie Ulrich

Don and Carol Curwick have become east metro volunteers. Carol makes meals for some of our homes that welcome a little help. Don helps with various maintenance projects.

From left: Joni Purrington with Michelle and Steve Olson. Joni is a 2022 Community Partner Award winner.

Amy (left), supported at our east metro Hale home is with Wade and Michelle Hartmann. Wade is a Lead DSP at our east metro 96th Street home and Michelle is the Program Manager at the Hale home.

And Then There Was One . . .

by Ellen Timmerman-Borer, Chief Development Officer

Ilike to think about Hammer and Northeast Residence as one. One community of people looking out for one another. Sharing one set of values—that everyone has a place in our world, and everyone needs support in some way. For me, every day I need something different, like I imagine it is for you too. Some days I may be fearlessly independent and other days I need friends and family, just the right people, to help me manage.

That’s what we do together now, on both the east and west sides of the river. In 64 homes, with almost 600 employees throughout the Twin Cities. Every day, we are doing our part to make sure that those we serve live the life they deserve.

We rely on private philanthropy from you to make our community a great one.

Individuals living with intellectual disabilities in all our communities deserve a home that is safe and well cared for. They deserve support from caregivers who are trained to provide just the right care, no matter the need. Caregivers deserve to be well compensated through wages, education, and a career path that allows them to advance while doing the work they love and that is critical to our communities.

Together we are better: On the east side at Northeast Residence, on the west side at Hammer Residences; in our communities, people with intellectual disabilities are living their best lives only with your generous support.

You are the GOOD in our community. Thank you!

Chase, Karen, and Mickie, pictured in the middle, have called our 5th Street home, home for years and are truly a family. Whether Megan, Program Director, or Paul, Direct Support Professional, are working with them, they enjoy going out and meeting people in the community. They had a blast at our Fall Breakfast with Chase’s greetings, Karen’s smiles, and Mickie’s all-around exuberance. The 5th Street community counts on each other, their caregivers, and you so they can have great days together.

For nearly 20 years, the NER Respite program provided breathing room for Bonnie, April, and Rick Mereness and other families to take a break on occasion. Unfortunately, the Respite program closed, and the Mereness family misses it. However, they have stayed connected and join their community as much as possible. With hands held together and smiles for miles, the Mereness family is a great role model of how we can support one another across our communities.

Amy has called Northeast Residence home since 1995. Although she is shy, Amy was extremely excited about assisting at our recent Fall Breakfast and spent plenty of time picking out just the right outfit. Amy presented a Community Partner Award to Alex Green of Geritom Medical. Alex and the team at Geritom have been trusted partners to Northeast Residence and Hammer for years. As Community Partners, they have provided over $187,000 of support in the form of sponsorships for Hammer and NER. Throughout the pandemic, Geritom was focused in one direction, on the people we serve. They provided consistent pharmacy services so each individual could receive the medications and treatments they needed. Thanks to so many partnerships, we enjoy ongoing, collaborative relationships that support the health and safety needs of those we serve.

After working at our Welcome Place home as a caregiver, Kadie Bundu was recently promoted to our Nursing Team. Congratulations Kadie! After she and her children attended our Fall Breakfast, Kadie shared some thoughts with us: “Umu, my daughter, and Samuel, my son, were very grateful to attend the breakfast with their mom that day. As a parent, I try to teach them the importance and value of supporting our community and how we give back in our society. I like the connection that we make with the individuals and their families. Working at Hammer has brought so much positive impact to my life both personally and professionally. At the end of the day, I feel so appreciated when I see that smile on the faces of the individuals we take care of.”

It’s all about relationships and Bill Young (left) and CEO, John Estrem have worked side by side throughout John’s tenure and since Bill started driving individuals served at Hammer to Holy Name Church. Healthy communities need good leaders like Bill, who is a volunteer, board member, and allaround great guy. Bill has served on Hammer and Hammer Travel’s Board as well as our Development Committee. The best part is that Bill has introduced Hammer and those we serve to hundreds of people. And now Bill is making connections for us on both sides of the river, encouraging business associates, friends, and family to help in our community.

CONTRIBUTORS

| Donations from May 1, 2022 - September 30, 2022

Extraordinary changes have occurred and yet your remarkable support continues. You are among thousands who believe in providing safe and healthy lives for people at Hammer. Thank you for your unwavering generosity.

$100,000 + Anonymous

$25,000 – $99,999

Jim Bebo

$10,000 – $24,999

Caridad Corporation Mary Drazan

Pat and Michael Houston Lions Club of Plymouth Thomas L. Lowe

Tony's Wayzata BP Windsong Donor Advised Fund / Gail Munsell

$5,000 – $9,999

ACI Asphalt Contractors, Inc.

Gerald M. Caruso, Jr. Front Row Digital Kathy Ganzer and David Piehl

Susan Argall Haas and Brian Haas ♥

Don and Heidi Haberman Hennepin County Public Works

Rick Lang and Mary Beth Olson

Martinson Clinic Foundation

Netsmart Technologies Otten Bros. Nursery Dan and Katherine Poppe Victor Sugumar and Anita Victor Warners' Stellian Company Inc.

Julie Wesley-Wong and Wymond Wong ♥ Mary Ann and John Wolters

$1,000 – $4,999

Anonymous (2)

Lisa M. Anderson

Bacio

Bank of America 

Bieber Family Foundation / Bill Bieber

Bona Fide Masks

The Cargill Foundation 

Barry and Debbie Carlson

Carol Curoe and Susan Langlee Fund

B.J. Carre

Mark and Rebekah Cibuzar

Patrice and James Dahl ♥

Joe and Sondra Dahmer Charitable Fund

DLH Charitable Fund

Eide Bailly, LLP

Esch Construction Supply, Inc.

Rosemary and Marvin Fish

Rebecca and Ron Furnival ♥ Dan Ganzer

Rachel Ganzer

Gianni's Steakhouse

Darold and Debra Gjorass

Charity Fund

Kathryn H. Glen Sharon Green

Steve and Jean Guenther

David Hardt

Devin and Dee Harrington Ronald L. Haskvitz

Tim and Amy Haugen Heartbreakers of Chaska

Mary Hilgert

Linda and Kenneth Holmen ♥

Sarah Homuth-Goar ♥

Ronald E. Hovda

Marty Iozzo

Hugh and Julie Kirsch ♥ Bill Krippner

Karen Lafferty Design

Wally Lentz and Susan Nixon

Steve Lindblad

Robert and Michelle Luke ♥

Bill Luther and Janet Robert ♥

Marvin's Greenberg Family Fund Medica

Bob and Karen Morgan Christy and Terry Morse

Denny and Mary Newell Sani and Gene O'Brien

S.B. Osborn Charitable Trust / Bartley and Kandi Osborn

Cliff Foundation / Clifford Otten

Susan and Greg Pfeiffer

John and Vicki Pink Christine Poppe

Susan and Andrew Rein

Judi Marie and Mitch Ringe

Kent and Traci Scholten Fund

Jane and Don Shaffer ♥

David Sovell

Ben and Mary Stephens Drs. Mary and Jan Tanghe Denine Taylor ♥

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation  Linda and Bob Tomaschko

Twin City Heating, Air and Electric

Bruce and Carmen Volkart Pete and Carolyn Wahtera Mark and Kathy Wallraff Jim and Sandy Warner Jr. Paul Warner Wynona Warner Nancy Wesley-Battaglia and Paul Battaglia

Will Steinke / Christensen Group Insurance Brad and Cheri Wivell

$500 – $999

AK Material Handling Systems - Josh Smith ♥

Joel and Mary Amundson Janet and David Anderson ♥

Aon Foundation  David and Sue Astin Jim and Sandy Beckman

Laura Lee and Kyle Berger

Allison Bolgrean and Jared Brown Bremer Bank

Gerald and Gwen Bruzek Marlan and Janis Carlson Rae Carlson + Trust ♥ Pauline Coleman ♥ Carol and George Daum Jim and Susan Erickson

Red = Family Members

 = Matching Gift Company

♥ = Monthly Donor + = Deceased

Excelsior Brewing Company

Ian Flam

Front Row Sales and Marketing Reggie Fuller Pete Ganzer

Jean and Bill Gjetson ♥ Glennon Family Fund / Colleen Glennon Gregory and Jiselle Graves

Debby Grote Martha and Ed Gschneidner Giving Fund

Dennis Himan Mark and Nancy Hirschfeld ♥ Kent and Marilyn Howe Craig Jensen Teresa Josie Tina Kaehn

Knights of ColumbusBuffalo #6608

Jo Ann Koltes ♥

Paul and Sally Kraske

Susan Laurent

Cindy Lea

David Lee Funeral Home

Karen Lieberman

Phil and Barb Lindblad

Mary Lydon and Chuck Donkers

Craig and Heather Lynch Minnesota Rusco Mutual of America Foundation 

Paul and Stella Nelson

Mark and Ingrid Nemzek

Kevan and Laurie Nitzberg

Allan and Vicki Olson

Susan and Michael Oreck Daniel and Pam Patnode

Mary Patterson ♥

Peacock Promotions

Anna Peterson

Father Don Piche ♥

Buck and Kim Riesgraf

Cathy and Kirk Rose Al Sether Gary and Ellie Singer

Renee E. SolingerAudette ♥

Tom and Pam Spitznagle Chris M Strande ♥ Ben Taylor and Kate Kelly

Thyme with Meg Barbara Tuckner ♥ UnitedHealth Group Dollars Emp. Giving & Dollars for Doers  Ronald and Shirley Vescio

Stephanie Weiss

Erin and Ted Wentink

David and Laurie Wesley Jim and Cathy Wesley Michael Wesley ♥

Thomas Wesley and Janice James Western National Insurance Group

Linda Zimmerman and Associates

$100 – $499

Anonymous Margaret and John Abdo

Allegra Print & Imaging Allied Supply AmazonSmile

The Anderson Family / Gary Anderson

Laura Anderson Rachel Anderson

Rachel Ann Lisbeth and Mark Armstrong ♥

Arrowwood Resort

John Awe

Brandon and Allison Bailey

John and Shelia Barbetta ♥

Lawrence and JoAnn Barbetta ♥

Mark and Carolyn Bauer ♥

Rick Bialick

Meggan Bjorlund

Anonymous

Scott Bocklund and Peggy Hill-Bocklund

Breadsmith

Jerry and Cathy Brennan

John Brown

Chanhassen Dinner

Theatres

Katherine Chen Roger Cheng

Danielle Cherrill

Joey and Taylor Christensen

LeAnne Christensen

Heather Cieslicki

Coalition

Mary Coleman ♥

Alfred G Colling

Heather Creighton Rob and Susan Dahlin ♥

Jim and Brenda Damiani

Judith and Kent Davidson ♥

Richard Davis

Gerry and Vicki Degner

Julie and Stephen Deuth Cal and Katy Dirks

Brenda Doboszenski

Lisa and Scott Dongoske

Bob and Kim Dorr

Gretchen Dullinger

Curtis and Sonya Eckers

George Emerson

Empower Health and Fitness

Michael and Cheryl Eterno

Wanda Fischbach

Paul Fish and Kandise

Garrison Bob and Terrisa Fisher ♥

Fogo DeChao

Restaurant

K.E. Fox

Rita Fox

Jeremy and Helen George

John and Jean Goad

Donna Gorski

Karen Grabow Alex and Samantha

Beth and her mom, Jean Gjetson, enjoyed the Family Day Picnic, one of Hammer’s long-running traditions. Jean is a proud member of Alvina Angels, donating monthly to provide much needed and reliable funds so Beth and others can continue to live a great life.

Greene

Sue and Ilja Gregor ♥ Kelly Guy Kara Haakons

Jacob Hameed Jessica Hammer ♥

Mary Hannah

Greg and Kathy Hanson Lindsey Harter Jenna Haskvitz Leah Haskvitz

Sarah Haugen Steve Heim

Jo Ann M. Henricksen ♥

Mary Marquretta Hill ♥ Mark Hoffman

Jeanne Horwath

Dana Hruby

Kristin Hysjulien

Vicki Jackman

Richard and Kathleen Jackson

Gena and Joe Janetka

JK Interiors Inc. ♥ Brian Johnson ♥ Sherri and Steve Johnson

Kelly Johnston

Terry and Timothy Johnston ♥

Tracy Jolicoeur

Stephanie and Necmi Karaman

Naomi Kassler

Adam Kastendieck

Steven and Teresa Kastendieck ♥

KFAN Radio

Sayavong Kiling

Jim and Betty Klande

Barbara and David Kleist ♥

Vicki Klima

Christopher and Peggy Klug

Toni and Brad Knorr

Joe and Gina Koltes

Steve and Kay Koltes

Mari Kook

Kris Kosloski

Paula Krippner

Terrance and Mary Ann Kukla

Lafayette Club

Lakeside Wines & Spirits

Kurt and Constance Larson

Wendee Larson

Kathy Latham Herbert and Kathie Levy

Stephen and Judy Lewis Lexus of Wayzata

Sheila and Peter Lind Maureen Lindgren Michael and Karen Linn ♥ Andrew P. Litecky Orazio and Jeanne Lombardi Mary K. Lund

Robert Maksian Massage Energy Therapy Inc.

The Medtronic Foundation 

Taya Mergott

Phyllis Miller

Minnesota Twins Minnesota Vikings Lizzie Minor

R. F. Moeller Jeweler

Patty and Mike Molden Steve and Debbie Morelan ♥

Kathryn S. Moren and Mark Thompson

Deb Nelson Erik Nelson Mike and Karen Nelson John Nikolou

Sharon and Greg Ohland Michelle and Steve Olson ♥

Mary and Michael Ongstad ♥

Joel Papa and Mary Bader Papa Jane Parent Park Tavern

Bruce and Merry Jo Parker

Cheryl and Tom Pelkey Lindsey Phillips

Lisa Piazza

David Plocek

Joan and Norm Purrington

Linda and Michael Richardson Colleen Roberts

Audrae Rosenzweig ♥

Terry and Cathy Roth Jeanne Rouch ♥

Valerie Rule

Richard Runyon

Tom and Diane Russell Marvin and Judy Saarela ♥

Alice Sanders

Corrine and Denny Schmidt

Barbara Serbin Macy and Tracy Seymour ♥ Allison and Phillip Shatzman

Madolyn Sheley

Siegel Family Foundation / Elaine Siegel

Kristine Simon

Andrea Simonett

Owen and Sadie Simonett

Robert and Jacqueline Singer Timothy and Cheryl Solinger

Fran Stage

Stages Theatre Company

Blaine and Julia Stephens

Dale + and Mari Stomberg

Susan Sundell

John Sweeney

Mona Talley

Theater Latté Da Richard and Nancy Timp ♥

John Tulloch Raymond and Kathie Urbaniak

Varde Wealth Management

Stuart Walcott Connie and Ben Webber

Wells Fargo Business Banking

Abbie Wesley Yun

Barbara Wheeler and John Cannino

Paul and Janice Wicklund

Jill Wigand Alan and Connie Wilensky

Samuel Williams

Barbara Wothe

Scott Wothe

Jackie Wulf Mark and Wendy Yungner

Under $100

Anonymous (6)

David Alexander

Robert and Elaine Ambrose Jack and Cheryl Amdal Betsy Asturias

Melissa Austin Tom and Ann Baker

Sylvia Baufield

Jennifer Birkhofer

Beverly Borgstrom Mike and Shirley Bougetz

Amanda Brami

Raymond Brau and Roxana Merz Barbara and Larry Brauch

John Brown

Patricia Broyles

Cafe Latte

JQ Calderon

John and Anne Carpenter

Paul and Lynda Carr

Wayne Chapman Jake Christensen

Rachel Christensen

Richard and Mary Lou Christenson

Douglas and Kathleen Clemenson

Patty Coles

Jim and Renee Cornwell

Cleve and Sheila

Crowningshield

Sheryl Cullen

D'Amico Holdings

Candy Keprios Davis and David Davis

James Decker and Judith Decker

Daniel Destache

Carrie Dornisch

Melissa Dupont

Ann and David Engfer

Tom and Vicki Eskew

Nancy Estrem-Fuller

Gary and Marellen Farsund

Linda Flynn

Lois Fox

Carl and Margaret Frank Steven and Kathy Frick

Michael Glampe

Robert and Patti Glumack

Daniel and Ann Mary Goodmundson Jacquelin Gordon Clayton Gripp

Kenneth and Marlys Jenson

Jeffrey Johnson

Pat and Clifford Johnson

Ron and Dorie Johnson

Corly and Nick Jones

Michael and Maureen Kayser Giving Fund

Deborah and James Kearnes

Lisa Kelly

Shannon Marlin

Wayne and Kathy Matsumoto

Maynard's Restaurant

April McClellan

Mid-America Festivals

Walter and Marge Miller

Minnesota State Fair Minnesota Wild Marko and Robann Mrkonich

Kerry was not able to go to the State Fair this year, but one of her caregivers brought her favorite treat home for her: Sweet Martha’s Cookies. This special treat was a huge hit! She shared nicely, just like our donors.

Jay and Lori Gyllen

Al and Judy Haeg

Rebecca Hammond

Cheryl Hayda

Isidore Hayda

Samantha Hempel

Charles Hollenhorst

Jenny Holmes

Ron and Judy Horn RW and BV Howell

LaDonna Hoy Illusion Theater

Michael and Ella May Jennings

Thomas and Maren Kelly

Darlene Kimpling

Paul and Helen Klapprich

Jill Kohler ♥

Luanne Koskinen

R and J Kosmoski

Renee and Mark Lampe

Audrey Gail Lazerus

Dennis and Joyce Lenz

Julie Libby

Lions Tap

Catherine Little

Elaine Loeffler ♥

Luci Ancora Cucina

Italiana

The Muzetras Family

Dennis and Jodie Nelsen

Jessica Newton

Emily Niemeyer

Sandra O'Connor

Gary and Tami Olmen

Bruce and Ruth O'Neal

Diane Orenstein and Frank Levin

Sandy Palmquist

Bob and Sue Past

Pat's Tap Roger and Deborah Pearson

Dale and Bridget Peterson

David C. Piehl

Robert and Jane Quaintance

Raising Cane's Kathy Rauchle Redstone

Mark and Shirley Reinertson

Eric and Diane Reishus Allen and LaVonne Ribbe

Steve and Nancy Rice

Elizabeth Ronning

Robert and Roxanne Rydland Sofia Santiago Mary Savage

R. L. and M. T. Schaaf

Lucille Schaefer

Anthony and Allison Schelitzche

Lowell and Mary Ann Schiebe

Lori Schug

Schuler Shoes

Pam Schwandt

Peter and Jen Sellwood

Brian Serber

Faith Shatzman

Ronald and Karen Sigal S Sikkila

Rachael Smith

St. Paul Saints Mary Stoecker

Daniel Storms Peggy Swanson

Geri and Geri Sweet

Theresa Swiggum Elaine and Mark Taggatz

Thomas and Constance Tart

Peter and Cynthia Theisen Art and Mary Thole Three Rivers Park District

Top Golf Trader Joe's Bill Van Offeran

Regan Vanevenhoven ♥ Robert and Darnell

Vercruysse

Vicki L Schlechter

Supplemental Needs Trust

Richard and Kathleen Vlach

Verne Weiss

Greta Werner Sam and Randee Wolfson Eugene and Joan Ziemer

Thanks to Wymond and Julie WesleyWong for including Hammer in their new building open house at Twin Cities Heating, Air and Electric! We were honored to be the recipient of your generous donation.

Thursday, June 22, 2023 | 5:30 – 9:00 p m

Quincy Hall

1325 Quincy St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413

Located in the heart of the arts district.

Reach for Ralph is our annual summer fundraiser. You can make a difference for people with intellectual disabilities. Join our fun, casual event. Enjoy dinner, auctions, and games. You will be inspired by stories of people who are supported by Hammer Residences and Northeast Residence.

To learn about sponsorship opportunities, call 952-473-1261

In 2023, Hammer Residences will be celebrating our 100th anniversary and Northeast Residence will be celebrating our 50th anniversary. What an amazing coincidence!

Please join us in the celebration planning. We need your stories and photos. Are you interested in helping us plan our celebration? Will you host a party at a Hammer or NER Home? Can you help gather photos and create a scrapbook? Do you have any connections with local media that could get our stories in the news? We have a modest budget so help us think of fun, inexpensive ways to celebrate. Let us know your area of interest and how you want to be involved.

Please contact us: Ginger.Venable@Hammer.org or 952-345-0115

FRIENDS OF BILL BIEBER — QUALITY-OF-LIFE FUND

Every year, Hammer parent Bill Bieber sends a personal letter to his friends, business associates, and family members asking them to help support his son, Jimmy, and all of his friends at Hammer. Bill and those listed here are among the many donor heroes who give generously to cover the costs of living a good life at Hammer from a warm winter coat, medical bills not covered by insurance, and even the occasional trip to a favorite restaurant (like the McDonalds in Wayzata!). You can be a Hammer Hero, too by inspiring others to support people in need with your very own fundraiser. Contact Ellen.tborer@hammer.org to learn how.

Ahern Family Fund / Philip Ahern John and Patricia Bailey Bieber Family Foundation / Bill Bieber Jeff and Widdy Bird Brown Foundation / Dick and Sandra Brown Greg and Lisa Buck Charitable Fund Chuck and Mary Carlsen Paul and Mary Cederberg Michael and Ann Ciresi Richard and Judith Corson Roger and Cheryl Ann Heegaard Rob and Signe Hensel Alan and Diane Horner L.H. Hendrickson Family Charitable Fund / Larry Hendrickson Laurence LeJeune + Anthony Leuthold Patrick and Kathy Lewis Stephen and Judy Lewis Paul and Janice Lindbloom McGlynn Family Foundation / Michael and Julie McGlynn Fredrick and Christine Meyer Chip and Jani Morris Giving Fiund David and Jari Norris Michael J O'Connell and Susan F Hayes Charitable Fund Mark and Robin Osmanski John and Gigi Ossanna Kay Phillips and Jill Mortensen Fund James and Elizabeth Ramsland Gary and Susan Rappaport Family Fund Colleen Ryan

William and Joyce Sexton Family Foundation Douglas and Kathryn Smith Howard and Tillie Stacker Sullivan Family Fund / Austin and Marti Sullivan Voelbel Family Fund / Richard and Lynn Voebel Gary and Vicki Wyard

+ Deceased

We are grateful to all of our generous donors! Donations of all sizes are making a difference to those we serve! In fact, your support enables our 46 Hammer homes and apartment programs to serve over 270 individuals living with developmental disabilities across the metro area’s western suburbs. Together, we are helping them to live life to the fullest.

Thank you, Bill, for all that you do to support the people we care for.

Bill's son, Jim, with Hammer's Director of Major Gifts, Angela Bernhardt. Jim lives at our west metro Ridgeview home.

EMPLOYEE GIVING

Donations from May 1, 2022 - September 30, 2022

We are proud to acknowledge our staff members who donate to Hammer. They see the effects of the staffing shortage and support our loyal coworkers.

Dianne Berg

Angela and George Bernhardt

Joan Boerschinger

Kevin Borer and Ellen Timmerman-Borer

Dan and Kate Bottiger

Barbara and Bill Brandt

Aaron Briggs

Michael Bryant

Tomeko Champion-Patrick Joe and Tahni Cullen

Ashley Emerson

Tim Eshelman

John Estrem

Lisa and John Greenberg

Kim Hansen and Mickey

Joldzic

Mark and Lynn Hansen

Patty and Ben Hastings

Jennifer Hipple

Jan Hopper

Elizabeth Hoskyn Momo J. Johnson William Mbu

Kevin McLaughlin

Stefanie Miller

Malik Mohamud

Jenna and Logan Neal

Katherine Noon Maima Parker

Jill Peters

Kristin and Duane Pyka

Rachel Revels

Thomas Russeth Cate Saracen-Peters and Gordy Peters

Cari and Jeff Sheley

Jacob Snell

Chris and Rachel Southa

Isabel Sultana

Esther Swen

Jerry Towianski

Regan Vanevenhoven Diana Vang

Ginger and Tom Venable

Samantha Vokaty Sue and Kim Walker Dennis Zelee

“I donate because, to me, giving is more than just writing a check. It is also about showing up and making a difference each day. I am lucky enough to be able to do both; being a monthly donor and having a job that I love!”

—Barbara Brandt, Director of Communication, pictured with her mom, Bonnie Holt, at the Family Day Picnic.

HAMMER'S HONORARIUMS AND MEMORIALS

| Donations from May 1, 2022 – September 30, 2022

Your special gift says that you are proud of and want to celebrate your loved one’s accomplishments. You also remember those you have lost with your generosity and kindness. Thank you!

IN HONOR OF

Bill Bieber and Jimmy Bieber

Stephen and Judy Lewis

Ben and Mary Stephens

Broadway Team and Elliott Susan and Andrew Rein

Brenda Damiani

Jim and Brenda Damiani

Gardner Nurses

Kathy Ganzer and David Piehl

Gardner Staff

Kathy Ganzer and David Piehl Colleen Glennon

Glennon Family Fund

Adam Grote

Barbara Serbin

Hammer Staff

Mary Patterson

Ron Haskvitz

Jenna Haskvitz

Holdridge Staff

Adam Kastendieck Jersey Staff

Sherri and Steve Johnson

Momo Johnson

Barbara Wheeler and John Cannino

Kirsch Family

Craig Jensen

Knollway Staff

Robert and Michelle Luke Lancaster Staff

Judi Marie and Mitch Ringe

Chelsea Lavold at Renew

Cal and Katy Dirks

Barb Matter

Ronald L. Haskvitz

Keith Meyer

Jean and Bill Gjetson

Jenna Neal, Nurse at Hammer

Cal and Katy Dirks

David and Sue Astin

Nelson Place Staff

Ronald and Shirley Vescio Nurses at Hammer

Peggy Swanson

Michael and Sue Oreck

Gena and Joe Janetka

Diane Orenstein and Frank Levin

Allison and Phillip Shatzman

Ronald and Karen Sigal

Faith Shatzman

Sam and Randee Wolfson

Sue Oreck

Faith Shatzman

Geri and Geri Sweet

Anne and Mary have been served by Hammer for more than 40 years. Pictured with them are Anne's sister, Linda, and her daughter, Erin. They have seen the many ways Hammer has adjusted to meet the changing needs of aging adults to allow them to live safely, with dignity and grace, while still having fun!

Plymouth Colony Staff

Joe and Gina Koltes

Rob Reisgraf

Elaine Loeffler

Wayne Schuck

Art and Mary Thole

Chelle Stillman

Elaine Siegel

Sumac Staff

Rosemary and Marvin Fish

Sharon Green

Janet Tuckner

Paul Warner

Vicksburg Staff

Pat and Michael Houston

Mickey Wesley

Gretchen Dullinger

Sandra Williams

Terrance and Mary Ann Kukla

Ann Wilmes at Renew

Cal and Katy Dirks

Brenda Witt

Ronald and Shirley Vescio

Diana Tsypin

Chuck and Diana Webster

Alan Wilensky

Randee Wolfson

Susan and Michael Oreck

IN MEMORY OF

John Anderson

Jean and Bill Gjetson

Pat Anderson

Raymond Brau and Roxana Merz

John and Anne Carpenter

Paul and Lynda Carr

Deborah and James Kearnes

Thomas and Maren Kelly

Catherine Little

Mark and Shirley Reinertson Eric and Diane Reishus

Kenny Bjorgan

John and Vicki Pink Allen Bright

Steve Heim

Mark and Patty Codosh Parents

Susan and Michael Oreck

Clara Dolan

Sue and Ilja Gregor

Juanita Ernhart

Melissa Dupont

Phyllis Genest

Candy Keprios Davis and David Davis

Karen Grabow

Michael and Ella May Jennings

Ron and Dorie Johnson

Walter and Marge Miller

Anthony and Allison Schelitzche

Bob Koltes and Becky Gromek

Terry and Timothy Johnston

Jo Ann Koltes

Chris M Strande

Dana Haskvitz

Jake Christensen

Joey and Taylor Christensen

Rachel Christensen

Jenna Haskvitz

Leah Haskvitz

Ronald L. Haskvitz

Andrea Simonett

Owen and Sadie Simonett

Brad Hill

Thomas P. Bedard

Jack Huddleston

Jean and Bill Gjetson

Lauren Josie

Teresa Josie

Jeanette McChesney

Mike and Shirley Bougetz

K.E. Fox

Lois Fox Al and Judy Haeg

Jeffrey Johnson Darlene Kimpling

Dennis and Joyce Lenz Dennis and Jodie Nelsen

Roger and Deborah Pearson Burt Newman

Susan and Michael Oreck

James Prodahl

Jenna Haskvitz

Beverly Sether

Al Sether

Susan Seymour Macy and Tracy Seymour Deanne Straka

Robert and Elaine Ambrose Jack and Cheryl Amdal

The Anderson Family

Melissa Austin Tom and Ann Baker

Sylvia Baufield Beverly Borgstrom

John Brown

Patricia Broyles

Wayne Chapman

Richard and Mary Lou Christenson

Douglas and Kathleen Clemenson

Cleve and Sheila Crowningshield

Richard Davis

James and Judith Decker

Daniel Destache

Curtis and Sonya Eckers

Ann and David Engfer Tom and Vicki Eskew

Gary and Marellen Farsund

Paul Fish and Kandise Garrison

Wanda Fischbach

Linda Flynn

Carl and Margaret Frank

Steven and Kathy Frick

Michael Glampe

Daniel and Ann Mary Goodmundson Jacquelin Gordon Sue and Ilja Gregor Kelly Guy Jay and Lori Gyllen Cheryl Hayda Isidore Hayda

Dennis Himan Ron and Judy Horn RW and BV Howell LaDonna Hoy Kenneth and Marlys Jenson

Tracy Jolicoeur

Paul and Helen Klapprich R and J Kosmoski

Julie Libby Orazio and Jeanne Lombardi

Wayne and Kathy Matsumoto

Phyllis Miller

Marko and Robann Mrkonich

The Muzetras Family

Gary and Tami Olmen

Bruce and Ruth O'Neal

Joel Papa and Mary Bader Papa

Dale and Bridget Peterson

Robert and Jane Quaintance

Steve and Nancy Rice

Valerie Rule

Richard Runyon

Robert and Roxanne Rydland

Sofia Santiago

Mary Savage

R. L. and M. T. Schaaf

Lucille Schaefer

Lowell and Mary Ann Schiebe

S. Sikkila

Robert and Jacqueline Singer Mary Stoecker

Daniel Storms

Susan Sundell

John Sweeney

Peter and Cynthia Theisen

Richard and Kathleen Vlach

Verne Weiss

Greta Werner

Barbara Wothe

Scott Wothe

Eugene and Joan Ziemer

Mike Talley

Mona Talley

Alexi Besser-Wiek

Allen and LaVonne Ribbe

Deanne Straka gave selflessly. Friends described her as smart, funny, generous, creative, wonderful and so much more. In lieu of flowers, she directed her memorials to Hammer Residences. Deanne will live on in the hearts and souls of her family, and at Hammer. Thank you for your kindness.

Would you like to make a gift to Hammer Residences in honor or memory of someone special? You can use the enclosed envelope, go online, or just send us a note along with your contribution. Thank you.

ALVINA HAMMER HERITAGE SOCIETY

Thank you to these individuals who will make a lasting impact at Hammer. By including us in your estate plan you leave a lasting footprint for generations to come.

Anonymous (7)

* Leonard + and Mary + Aase

Lisa M. Anderson

Steven Argall Trust

*Margaret + and James + Argall

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

Marvin and Rosemary Fish

Shirley (Rip) and Ted + Freeman

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

Beulah + and Ingvald + Hongerholt

Dean Hongerholt Trust

Patricia and Michael Houston

*Mary Ann + and Jack + Huddleston

Christopher and Peggy Klug

Joan + and Bill Krippner

Wayne Krippner Trust

Laura Langer

Robert and Michelle Luke Lewis and Jill Mithun Jean and Tim + Nelson Denny and Mary Newell

Bruce and Merry Jo Parker

Steven and Paula Peterson

Father Don Piche

*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

Barbara Tuckner

*Grace + and Paul + Voetmann

Pete and Carolyn Wahtera

*Mary Wesley + *Karole Whipps +

* = Legacy gift received + = Deceased

To learn more about making your estate gift, go to Hammer.org/legacy. If you’d like to talk about your plans, contact Ellen Timmerman-Borer at ellen.tborer@hammer.org or Angela Bernhardt at abernhardt@hammer.org or call us at 952-473-1261.

Make a gift directly from your IRA to Hammer. If you are age 70½ or older, you can give a gift directly from your IRA to support Hammer Residences. While you will not receive an income-tax deduction, you will not pay taxes on any distributions made directly to Hammer. 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 Residences today.

My son, Wayne, is probably going to outlive me. I need to look out for his future. With him living at Hammer, 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.

— Bill Krippner

Michael (seated) at the Family Day Picnic with his brother, Josh Smith, close family friends John and Joseph, and another friend. You can see from the smiles, how happy they are!

Travis and his long-time volunteer, John Flynn, enjoy Wayzata’s James J. Hill Days together. We rely on our oneon-one volunteers to help get those we serve out in the community. Contact Cathy Thoma at 952-345-8554 to learn more.

Hammer Residences, Inc. 1909 Wayzata Blvd. Wayzata, MN 55391 952-473-1261 Hammer.org