Family, extended.
Hammer & NER’s mission is to provide people with intellectual and other disabilities the opportunity to live life to its fullest. We fulfill our mission daily by helping the people we support live meaningful and self-directed lives. In partnership with you, we will continue to open doors and unlock possibilities for the people we serve in our homes, apartments, and with our case management and care coordination services.
Look for Ralph!
Join us—there is a place for YOU in our community!
Give
Our extended family of donors make a world of difference in the quality of life we can provide the people we serve. Your gift of support stays right here in our community.
Volunteer
Many of the people we serve would love a friend to take a walk with, bake cookies, get a pedicure, or share a love of reading. An hour here and there can make a BIG difference in someone’s life.
Advocate
Our easy-to-use Advocacy Alert portal helps you email local legislators to encourage them to act on issues important to people with disabilities and those who care for them.
Supporting People in Homes & Apartments
Hammer & NER provide housing and supportive services for people living with intellectual and developmental disabilities in group homes and apartment program settings. We are committed to our mission to provide the people we serve the opportunity to live life to its fullest.
To learn more, contact Chris Chica, Residential Services Coordinator at cchica@hammer.org or call 952-277-2449.
Read the latest stories in our blog
Inside you’ll find news, updates, and stories: from the people we serve and the families we work with; of the people who work and volunteer here; of our long, rich history and our vision for the future.
A Magical Retelling of the Nativity Story
The Nativity story, celebrating the birth of Jesus, is one that is played out in hundreds of thousands of churches around the world each Christmas. For over 30 years, the Christ for People ministry has also joined in the tradition, sharing a memorable and magical experience for all involved. In fact, the annual Nativity Pageant has become one of the hallmarks of the Christ for People ministry. Dozens of individuals served by Christ for People look forward to being in the Pageant and re-enacting the Christmas story. Many will portray angels, shepherds, or one of the wisemen. There’s always stiff competition for the roles of Mary and Joseph. Others will joyfully sing in the choir. In the end, everyone looks forward to being a part of this special evening.
From Volunteer to Generous Donor to . . . Hawaii?
In 2009, Martha Gschneidner was preparing to send her youngest son to college. Desiring to give back to her community with her added free time, she sought out volunteer opportunities. This desire to give back would lead to 15 years of volunteerism and generosity with Hammer & NER.
Coffee & Donuts with Chris
Chris Ringe joined the Hammer & NER family in 2017. He is an active, friendly, outgoing guy with a big heart. His parents, Mitch and Judi Marie, were thrilled when Chris was invited to live at the Lancaster home,