Long friendship nurtures special connection 
By Kate Roehl, Community Member and Hammer & NER Supporter  

I never imagined that singing in a church choir would lead to a decades-long partnership with Hammer & NER.

Liz and Kate enjoy chatting after Sunday Mass 

About 40 years ago, my husband Jerry and I were raising four young children and regularly attending church. Through the choir, I met Liz—a joyful woman supported by Hammer & NER—whose love for singing left a lasting impression on me.

When our family joined Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Community in Wayzata, Fr. Arnold Weber created a welcoming space for individuals with developmental disabilities. We watched as several people supported by Hammer & NER began attending Sunday Mass, brought by volunteers. That tradition continues today through a monthly special needs program.

These relationships deeply impacted our family, inspiring us to financially support Hammer & NER. We believe every individual deserves a life of dignity, respect, and peace. It’s our responsibility as a community to offer a hand-up so they can live life to the fullest.

Four decades ago, when I first met individuals supported by Hammer & NER, many were young, independent, and full of energy. Over time, their needs have changed—requiring more medical care, adapted transportation, and perhaps a change to their housing situation. Both those served and their caregivers need increased resources.

That’s why our family is investing in the Together, We Ensure Tomorrow campaign. Hammer & NER is now caring for the first generation of senior citizens with developmental disabilities, and the need is urgent. It brings us joy to support this campaign so those served—and those who care for them—can thrive well into the future.

Growing up, my parents instilled in us the importance of generosity and doing the right thing. Supporting Hammer & NER feels like the right thing for our family—and now is the right time.

Perhaps it’s the right time for your family, too. Together, we can ensure a future filled with dignity, care, and opportunity for every individual served by Hammer & NER.

Please consider making a gift today. Your help is urgently needed. Please visit: Together, We Ensure Tomorrow – Hammer

Kate is pictured above with her husband, Jerry, and their family.