Opening doors. Unlocking possibilities.
Hammer & NER, together, are opening doors and creating opportunities for people with developmental and other disabilities. Stay tuned for an exciting year full of celebrations honoring our milestone anniversaries as we continue opening doors to the future!
Family, extended.
Working together, Hammer & NER are opening doors and creating opportunities for people with disabilities. As one of the largest disability services providers in Minnesota, we are living our mission of enabling people with disabilities to live meaningful, self-directed lives. As we celebrate over 100 years of service, we are laying the groundwork for a future that enables us to continue to open doors and unlock possibilities.
Look for Ralph!
As you explore our services and opportunities, just look for Ralph to help guide you!
Come on in!
We are always focused on meeting the needs of the people we serve. With support from staff, volunteers, donors, and families, the people who live in our homes and apartments are given the opportunity to live their lives to the fullest. We’re looking forward to meeting you soon!
Join us—there is a place for YOU in our community!
We are always focused on meeting the needs of the people we serve. With support from staff, volunteers, donors, and families, the people who live in our homes and apartments are given the opportunity to live their lives to the fullest. We’re looking forward to meeting you soon!
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 have provided housing and supportive services to people living with intellectual and developmental disabilities for a combined 150 years. We are proud of this legacy and remain committed to living out our mission to providing the people we serve the opportunity to live life to its fullest.
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.
Marking the Grave of a Remarkable Woman
Alvina Hammer’s founding of Hammer School in 1923 has impacted the lives of thousands of people living with intellectual and other disabilities. Some 57 years after her death, Alvina remains a revered visionary in the disability services field. Now, 57 years after her death, we are honored and humbled to mark her final resting place.
The Story of Ralph
Ralph Rosenvold was a little fellow with eyes filled with merriment and good nature with a smile that cracked his round, jolly face. He was one of the first students of Hammer School In a very special way, he became a symbol of Hammer around Wayzata, endearing himself to people for almost 65 years.
Alvina & Evelyn
Alvina Hammer and Evelyn Carlson were two pioneering women who believed children with developmental disabilities could learn and flourish and devoted their lives to creating a school and services designed to meet their special needs. Their vision and their work greatly influenced disability services across Minnesota and the country.