Each of our Hammer & NER homes is unique because of the people who live and work there. The “Showcasing Our Homes” profiles celebrate our homes (and apartment programs), the people who live there, and the staff who support them. Let’s learn about the Rockford home in Plymouth!

The Rockford home is led by Program Manager Sara Husfeldt. Sara joined Hammer Residences after receiving her teaching degree. Her sister was working at Hammer at the time and encouraged her to apply. “Never did I think I would still be working at Rockford after 25 years,” Sara says. She has worked a total of 28 years for Hammer Residences. “I have been in every role at the house—starting as DSP.” Soon after, Sara became an Associate Program Manager (lead) and three years ago she became the Program Manager at Rockford.

Let’s meet the other staff at Rockford:

Jan

Jan Hopper – Jan has been at Rockford for over five years working part-time and picking up extra shifts when needed. Jan is the “Norm” (character from the Cheers television show) of the house. When Jan comes in for a shift, everyone gets up and yells “Jan!” Jan keeps the gals busy on Sundays and plans all kinds of outings, from the Arboretum to flower shows and sculpture gardens. “Jan brings in crafts and likes to bake goodies with them,” Sara says. “Oh, and she and the ladies all have a sweet tooth, so she’ll take them out for ice cream.”

Cindy

Cindy Anderson – Cindy has also been at Rockford for over five years and is the weekend staff. “The gals like playing bingo with Cindy on Friday nights,” Sara says. “She makes sure that they win prizes at Project Soar Bingo.” Cindy keeps the ladies busy by going out mall walking, catching movies at Cinema Grill, and taking trips to the dollar store and McDonald’s every now and then for ice cream.

Melissa

Melissa Kabeta – Melissa has been at Rockford for about a year. “Melissa is always smiling and is eager to answer all the questions the gals may ask (during nearly every shift) about her cat,” Sara says. Melissa likes to watch Wheel of Fortune each night with them and tries to guess the answers. “She is always willing to pick up extra shifts when needed and takes everyone out to all the activities that are planned on her shift,” Sara says. “Melissa cares about the ladies and is a great listener.”

Maidee

Maidee Bokari – Maidee has been the home’s new lead staff member for three months. “Maidee is getting to know the ladies and their routines while taking on the lead role at the house,” Sara says. “Maidee is the cleaner of the group. She is always vacuuming and keeps the house tidy on the days she works.” Maidee helps everyone get to church on Tuesday evenings and takes them mall walking for exercise on Thursdays.

Jayme

Jayme Johnson – Jayme is also a new staff member to the Rockford team and has been on staff for about two months. “Jayme is also getting to know the ladies and their routines,” Sara says. “She is great at jumping in to help when asked, and the ladies say she’s a good cook.” Jayme also gets everyone to all the activities that are planned on her shifts and likes to participate with them.

Now, let’s meet the ladies of Rockford!

Carla

Carla has worked at Davanni’s in Edina for over 20 years. She likes her work there and is proud of the responsibility she is given and has fun with her co-workers. “Carla loves to travel,” Sara says. “She is a Disney fan and has gone on many Hammer Travel Disney trips as well as other destinations.” In her spare time Carla loves crafts, especially diamond dots and adult coloring books. “She always has at least one project in the works,” Sara says. Carla has lived at Rockford since the home opened—about 25 years.

Stephanie

Stephanie also works at Davanni’s but at the Plymouth location where she has been an employee for over 25 years! “Her family is important to her, and she spends many weekends with her parents and two sisters,” Sara says. “Steph also likes to travel and is also a Disney fan. She has gone on Disney trips and last year enjoyed a trip to Hershey, Pennsylvania, and the Hershey chocolate factory.” She likes to work on 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzles in the winter and tends to her container garden on the deck in the summer. “When you meet Stephanie, she likes to tell everyone about her 300+ purse collection,” Sara says. Stephanie is also one of the original ladies of the Rockford home.

Cindy

Cindy likes to be on the go, go, go! She likes almost any kind of outing if she can go out and about, but her favorites are shopping at the dollar store and visiting the animals at the Humane Society. “Cindy enjoys spending time with her family and her friend, Holly, on weekends,” Sara says. “Another big Disney fan, Cindy has also made several trips to Florida to visit Disney World.” Cindy attends Choice, Inc. four days a week and likes the outings and volunteering at the food shelf. On her day off she runs errands with her dad and keeps busy with her laundry. Cindy is another original lady of Rockford.

Amy

Amy moved to Rockford five years ago. “She is also a Disney fan, so she fits right in!” Sara says. Amy likes to do puzzles, diamond art, games on her iPad, and to go shopping and to the movies. “Amy is a fan of almost any sport,” Sara says. “She participated in Special Olympics track, bowling, and softball. She also went to a Minnesota Wild game this year and really enjoyed it along with a Twins game, Saint Paul Saints game, and a Gopher hockey game.” Amy attends PRI two days a week as well as the PRI VIP program the other three weekdays where she works one day a week and then volunteers for the other two days.

Sara, what makes this program special?

Sara

Sara: I just love the ladies. They are such fun, caring people who have a big place in my heart. They truly are my second family. They’ve lived together for a long time and are good friends. They’re very compassionate and care about helping one another out. It’s amazing how well they get along. Since they all love anything Disney, they signed up for a Disney cruise next summer through Hammer Travel.

How are families involved?
Sara: All the ladies’ families are involved in their lives. Everyone at Rockford participates in the Special Olympics and Cindy and Steph’s parents help coach swimming. All the families attend the Christmas program at King’s Community, where the ladies attend weekly church services and enjoy participating in the program. We close the house every holiday because everyone goes home to be with their families.

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Each of our Hammer & NER homes is unique because of the people who live and work there. The “Showcasing Our Homes” series celebrates our homes (and apartment programs), the people who live there, and the staff who support them. Let’s learn about the Belmont home in Maplewood!

The Belmont program is led by Program Manager Carrie Anderson. Carrie joined Belmont in 2010, working as a DSP on the weekends. “It was my first time working in direct care,” she says. “I wanted to see if I could make a difference.” She soon became Lead staff and was promoted to Program Manager in 2015.

Let’s meet the other staff at Belmont!

Ifrah

Ifrah Farah – Lead DSP, has worked at Belmont for a year and a half. “Ifrah is great at getting the gals out and about,” says Carrie. “They all enjoy going out to a movie.” Ifrah is always in a great mood and brings life to the house. She is very good at helping the women of Belmont be successful with their goals. “And she’s a good cook,” says Carrie. “Everyone loves her pancakes.”

Rita

Rita Tri – DSP, has been part of the team for seven years. “Rita is person-centered to the core,” Carrie says. “She’s on top of everything. She helps the gals with their daily routines like making lunch and then she’s at the door waiting for them when they get home from their programs.” Rita cares deeply about the Belmont women, helps them with their goals, and makes an impact in their lives.

Kate

Kate Dornfeld – DSP, began working part-time at NER’s (former) extended day program when she was in high school (her mother, Lisa, has worked with the finance team for nearly 30 years). She has worked at several homes and currently covers several overnight shifts each week at Belmont. “Kate is person-centered, caring, and patient,” says Carrie. “The gals love her.”

Seng

Seng Veng – DSP, has worked at Belmont for nearly nine years and works weekend overnights. “Seng is very responsible in managing all his tasks,” Carrie says. “I always know things are taken care of. The gals say he’s a nice person and Jenny thinks he’s funny.”

Sheletha

Sheletha Sanders – DSP, has been a part of the team for just under two years. “Sheletha is another good cook,” Carrie says. “She picks up lots of shifts and can be counted on to help out at the last minute. She is great at helping the gals with their goals and cares. She enjoys helping arrange dates for Jenny and her boyfriend.”

Abdullahi Abdidahir – DSP, is the newest staff at Belmont and joined the team just two months ago. “Abdullahi, who also goes by Kervo (and is a bit camera shy), is new to direct care, so he’s learning a lot,” says Carrie. “The gals like him.”

Let’s meet the people supported at Belmont!

Ann

Ann has lived at Belmont for three years. She is funny, caring, and loves to shop (Target and Five Below are favorites). She enjoys spending time with her mother on Sundays and going to the family cabin. Ann also loves helping to decorate for the holidays.   

Heidi

Heidi moved to the Belmont home 14 years ago. She has a heart for animals, especially her furry companions, a cat, Elizabeth, and a dog, Rosie, who she sees when she visits family. She loves to babysit the pets, which Carrie says helps her feel responsible. Heidi spends every other weekend with her dad and stepmom. She also spends time with her sister and niece. Heidi has a part-time job at the local fire station, where she helps with the cleaning.

Jenny

Jenny moved to Belmont in 2004. She is funny, outgoing, and loves going to her day program. She’s usually up at 5 a.m. in anticipation of the day. Jenny also looks forward to spending time with her family, especially her sisters. Jenny is all about Halloween! Her birthday is the day before. This year, there will be a big party at the house with a Halloween theme and Jenny’s special friend, Andy, will be there, too.

Claire also moved into Belmont in 2004. She loves having her own space and enjoys putting puzzles together either independently or with someone else. She also likes puzzle books and music. Claire is great with directions and can tell you how to get somewhere. On Fridays she goes to IHOP for pancakes and on Tuesdays she goes out and about with her mother. She enjoys spending every other weekend with her dad.

Carrie

Carrie, what drew you to this work?
Carrie: Before coming to NER, I worked in landscaping, and I was ready for a change. I wanted to see if I could make a difference in helping people. I didn’t know if it was for me, but it ended up being the perfect thing for me.

You’ve worked at Belmont for 15 years. What keeps you here?
Carrie: The ladies. They keep me going. It’s a fun and loving home and they enjoy doing things together like going to the movies or shopping. They’ve even gone to camp together. I’ve also helped out at other homes, but this is like a second home to me. I’ve learned so much from the people I support. I’ve learned patience. I learned how to cook here! I’ve also enjoyed being a part of Special Olympics. For several years, I was the head coach of NER’s Special Olympics bowling team and helped with track and field and bocce ball. Those are just some of the great experiences I’ve had.  

The post Showcasing Our Homes appeared first on Hammer.

Each of our Hammer & NER homes is unique because of the people who live and work there. The “Showcasing Our Homes” profiles celebrate our homes (and apartment programs), the people who live there, and the staff who support them. Let’s learn about the Arkansas home in St. Louis Park!

The Arkansas program is led by Program Manager Tyler Textor. Tyler has worked at Hammer & NER for 27 years and has been at the Arkansas house the whole time. He began as a part-time DSP, working the early morning shifts while he attended Metropolitan State University in the afternoons. After graduating with a B.A. in Human Services, he wasn’t sure what he wanted to do next. His Program Director suggested he apply for the Program Manager (PM) position at Arkansas as the current PM was transitioning into a new position at Hammer. Tyler applied and got the job. Twenty-seven years later he still enjoys being at the Arkansas house.

Let’s meet the staff at Arkansas!

Elsie

Elsie Nsoh – Lead DSP, has been part of the team for six months. “Elsie does a great job with her duties as Lead DSP which helps me in a lot of ways,” Tyler says. “Elsie is a great cook and enjoys cooking a lot of the meals during the week, and the guys love it. The funny thing about her cooking—even though it tastes great, she says she doesn’t always eat what she cooks as she is a picky eater.”

Gavin with David

Gavin Nye – DSP, has been part of the team for 11 months. “Gavin works part-time and enjoys getting the guys out for rides or an occasional stop at either Speedway or Holiday for a soda,” Tyler says. “He has a great relationship with everyone who lives at Arkansas. One of them, David, got Gavin interested in knitting, something David does every day. Gavin learned how to knit on his own and if there is time during his shift, the two will sit and knit together.”

Jacoblyn

Jacoblyn Kamara – DSP, has worked at Arkansas for almost a year now. Jacoblyn works the overnight awake shift during the week. “Jacoblyn is one of those staff who comes in for her shift with a smile and jumps right in to get whatever she needs to complete for the overnight,” Tyler says. “She has a great relationship with all four guys at Arkansas. One of them just melts when she comes in for her shift or when he is awake in the morning. He continuously says that he will marry Jacoblyn. She smiles and says, ‘OK’.”

Dennis

Dennis Zelee – DSP, works the overnight awake shift during the weekends. Dennis has worked at Hammer & NER for over 18 years and has been at Arkansas for nearly four years. “Dennis is one of those staff that you can always rely on to help with anything extra that needs to be done,” Tyler says. “Dennis is a great problem solver and you never have to worry about anything; Dennis will get it done. Everyone at Arkansas enjoys his presence and are excited when he comes in.”

Bertrand

Bertrand Ngoua – DSP, has worked at Arkansas for over six years and currently works part-time. “Bertrand enjoys helping out with any task that needs to be done,” says Tyler, “whether it’s doctor appointments, shopping with the guys, or taking them out for van rides or any activities that they are signed up for, Bertrand jumps right in. Bertrand is a huge soccer fan who plays when he is off. He enjoys watching soccer with the guys and explaining the rules of the game. All the guys enjoy it when Bertrand works.”

Shannon

Shannon Dunlap – DSP, has worked part-time at Arkansas for two years. Shannon works every other weekend. “She sometimes will work all alone but will still manage to get the guys out for a long van ride or out for lunch; something the guys all enjoy,” Tyler says. “They have a great relationship with Shannon and are happy when she is working.”

Grace

Grace Freeman – DSP, has worked at Arkansas for three years. Grace initially worked the overnight awake shift but has since transitioned to a part-time role. “Grace jumps right in and will do whatever needs to be done on her shift,” Tyler says. “She along with a few other staff, likes to cook, which the guys all enjoy. Grace is a good problem solver and will get her tasks done.”

Let’s meet the people supported at Arkansas!

Jim

Jim has lived at Arkansas for three years but previously lived in one of Hammer Residences’ apartment programs. Jim’s bedroom is downstairs, and he has the whole lower level to himself. “Jim is a nature guy and loves to sit in his recliner in front of the patio doors and watch the birds at the bird feeder as well as all the wildlife that come into the backyard, including deer, turkeys, coyotes, and foxes,” says Tyler. “Jim is a big Packers fan. With the other guys in the house being Viking fans, the rivalry becomes a fun one on game days!” Jim has a great personality and enjoys joking around with both staff and his housemates.

David

David (Dave) has lived at Arkansas for five years. He moved to Hammer Residences in 1968 when he was 5 years old. David is well known among people who have worked and lived at Hammer Residences over the years. “David always has a smile on his face and enjoys people,” Tyler says. “He likes to introduce himself as a ‘ladies’ man.’ David enjoys knitting hats (his sister helps him finish them) and often offers one to visitors as a special gift.” David is also a sports fan and enjoys watching the Vikings, Twins, and the Minnesota Wild. “Whatever hometown sports team is playing, he is wanting to watch it,” Tyler says.

Mitch

Mitch has lived at Arkansas for 11 years. He lived at another Hammer home prior to moving to Arkansas. “Mitch is known throughout Hammer & NER as a huge Minnesota Twins fan,” Tyler says. “No matter what the team’s record is or what the current score of the game is, Mitch will watch it until the end. He is also a baseball encyclopedia. He knows so much about baseball and not just about the Twins, but baseball in general.” Mitch also enjoys being around people, socializing, and having a good time.

RJ

RJ has lived at Arkansas for seven years. “RJ is a huge ‘gamer’ and enjoys playing all sorts of video games,” Tyler says. “He enjoys being around his housemates, but he also tends to keep to himself.” RJ is the youngest at Arkansas and is the only one who currently works. “He recently got a new job through his day program at Michaels in Plymouth,” Tyler says. “He has been working there a couple times a week. RJ is a hard worker and is very proud of his accomplishments including taking Lyft on his own.” RJ and David enjoy going bowling together each week at nearby Texa-Tonka Lanes.

Tyler

You’ve worked at Arkansas for 27 years. What keeps you here?
Tyler: Over my years here at Arkansas, we have had 10 different individuals living here, and each one has been special to me. I grew up with a cousin who had Down’s syndrome. I wanted to care for others with special needs just as my cousin was cared for. I enjoy coming in every day and doing my best to make sure these four gentlemen have a great quality of life. I have built a great relationship with each of them and their families. One of my goals is to put a smile on their faces on a daily basis. I am thankful that I have been able to work at this house all of these years.

As PM, what hopes or dreams or goals do you have for the home?
Tyler: I would love to see the guys go on a trip somewhere. Three of the guys are getting older and two are experiencing memory issues. David came to Hammer when Evelyn Carlson was here (as Executive Director) and was part of Hammer’s Ironman group. He is the last of that group.

It is a relaxing house to be at. The guys love visitors and love being around people. It is a relaxing house. This is their house, and I want them to have a good quality of life. I will sing or act goofy, just to make them laugh. On Mondays when I come in, they’re ready to chit chat and catch up—even RJ who isn’t big into conversations. They’re living life to the fullest.

The post Showcasing Our Homes appeared first on Hammer.

The Rollingview home is led by Program Manager Bode Ogunfowora. Bode began her journey as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) in 2013 and later became a Lead DSP). She had no previous experience in this field, having come from a finance background. Bode says getting to know the individuals we support and having the opportunity to help them live their lives to the fullest has truly been an honor. As a Program Manager (PM), Bode feels grateful for the chance to support the Rollingview ladies in various capacities. “I genuinely enjoy coming to work each day and seeing the happiness on the faces of the people we support: Hollie, Kelly, Nancy, and Sheila.”

Let’s meet the Rollingview staff:

Lynette

Lynette Vickerman – (Lead DSP) Lynette has worked at Rollingview for over 17 years. She began with the Extended Day Program at NER and later became a float staff before joining Rollingview. “Lynette is person-centered and proactive, often taking initiative to organize repairs and improve the home environment,” Bode says. Lynette created a system using colorful sticky notes to help staff stay on top of the menu and promote healthy eating habits. Lynette regularly transports the Rollingview gals to the Day Supports program at the nearby East office and enjoys going on community outings with them. “Her dedication and proactive attitude are greatly appreciated,” says Bode.

William

William Odame – (DSP) William is Rollingview’s dedicated morning weekend staff and has been with Hammer & NER for over 14 years. William began his journey at NER’s former Respite program, where he worked for 10 years before joining Rollingview. “William has consistently demonstrated a remarkable level of responsibility and dependability, especially during challenging situations,” says Bode. He stepped up significantly during changes in morning pick-up times, ensuring that individuals were ready and on time for their buses. “The individuals we support are always excited when William arrives for his shifts,” Bode says. “His presence brings a sense of calm and reliability, and he is a tremendous asset to our team. William’s contributions are deeply appreciated.”

Diane

Diane Mack – (DSP) Diane is a valued overnight staff who has been with Hammer & NER for over 40 years. She began her career at Respite and was the first staff member hired by NER! Diane joined the Rollingview team three years ago and has been a reliable and positive presence ever since. “Diane is known for her dependability and willingness to help, often picking up extra overnight shifts when needed,” Bode says. “Her dedication and team spirit make her a great asset to Rollingview, and we are fortunate to have her on our team.”

Cathy

Cathy Pigg – (DSP) Cathy is a dedicated weekend staff and has been part of the Rollingview team for over five years. She is passionate about her work and consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic. “Cathy is known as our house craft guru,” says Bode. “She brings creativity and joy to the home through engaging craft activities that the individuals love.” Cathy takes the lead in decorating the house for every holiday and season, making the environment festive and welcoming. “Cathy is a true team player who completes tasks efficiently and always goes above and beyond to make the people we support feel valued and special,” Bode says. “Her care, dedication, and positive spirit are deeply appreciated, and we are incredibly lucky to have her on our team.”

Trinh

Trinh Nguyen – (DSP) Trinh has been part of the Rollingview overnight team for five years. “She continues to grow in her role, consistently learning more about the individuals we support,” Bode says. Trinh has shown strong commitment to the team, often arriving early for her shifts to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of care. “Trinh plays an important role in maintaining the supportive environment at Rollingview,” says Bode.

Let’s meet the people supported at Rollingview:

Nancy

Nancy has lived at Rollingview for over 30 years. Now retired, she attends Hammer & NER’s East Day Supports program, where she connects with friends and participates in community outings. “Nancy lights up when her mom and sister visit,” Bode says. “Known for her cheerful personality, Nancy loves playful interactions with staff, especially when they engage in silly games or play ball with her.” She enjoys flipping through books and playing with sensory toys. She also enjoys crunchy snacks, warm hugs, and being out in the community, where she continues to thrive through social engagement and joyful experiences.

Kelly

Kelly has been part of the Rollingview home since 1994. She is a quiet individual with a delightful sense of humor. Kelly attends a day program on some days, and the East Day Supports program on other days. “She enjoys doing puzzles, sipping coffee, and watching movies and dance videos at the kitchen table using a DVD player,” Bode says. Kelly used to dance when she was younger and has a deep love for her room, which she considers her “safe place.” While she enjoys outings and being in the community, she may not always realize how much she benefits from these experiences. “Kelly especially enjoys dining at restaurants and spending time with her sister,” Bode says.

Hollie

Hollie has lived at Rollingview since 1994 and has sisterly love for the ladies. “Hollie is fun, enthusiastic, and enjoys upbeat company,” says Bode. Hollie attends a day program, and the East Day Supports program. “Her favorite activities include drinking coffee, watching SpongeBob, shopping (especially at the nearby dollar store), playing bingo, going out with her mom, and community outings,” says Bode. Hollie has also enjoyed going on trips with Hammer Travel.

Sheila

Sheila has lived at Rollingview since 1998. “Sheila is outgoing and social, she enjoys attention from both peers and staff—especially male staff,” says Bode. “She loves helping around the house and is known for assisting new staff in learning the layout.” Sheila is a Vikings fan and has visited Vikings training camp through Hammer Travel. Sheila looks forward to visiting her parents on Saturdays and participating in church activities on Sundays.

Tell me more about the Rollingview home.
BODE: We are grateful for the ongoing support from families. Recently, we received generous donations for the house, which are deeply appreciated. At Rollingview, each individual we support has unique wants, needs, and personalities. Some enjoy bonding closely with staff, while others prefer independence and following their own routines. For staff, to be successful at Rollingview, flexibility is key. No two shifts are the same, and staff are encouraged to embrace the unexpected. Our team thrives on positivity, turning challenges into opportunities for growth. What sets us apart is our dedicated staff—individuals who are passionate about their work and committed to supporting the people we serve, especially as they navigate changes related to aging.

Bode

What do the Rollingview gals enjoy doing?
BODE: As a group, the ladies like to decorate during the holidays, especially putting up a Christmas tree. They enjoy going to Camp Friendship, attending the Hammer & NER Luau, going to the East office for events like Bingo Night and Movie Night, sitting outside on the swing, being in the backyard, going to the park, and visiting Como Zoo. On their own, some like to do puzzles, or watch movies on the DVD player. They also like going for walks around the neighborhood, going on trips with Hammer Travel, eating out at restaurants, attending Vikings games, or visiting the Mall of America.

What drew you to this work?
BODE: I was drawn to this role by my deep passion for helping others. Throughout my life, I have sought opportunities where I can make a meaningful impact. One of my most formative experiences was caring for my grandmother, which taught me the value of patience and the power of a positive attitude. This experience has prepared me well for a career in this field, and I’m excited to bring that same dedication to the team. 

What makes this home special?
BODE: What makes this home truly special is the strong sense of teamwork, the dedication of staff, and the attention to details in everything we do. We support individuals with diverse needs, and we work closely with teams and families to ensure a nurturing and inclusive environment. My goal for the home is to continue supporting individuals in achieving their highest level of functionality and stability. A key part of this vision is maintaining a consistent and reliable staff, which helps build trust, continuity, and a strong sense of community. 

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Each of our Hammer & NER homes is unique because of the people who live and work there. The “Showcasing Our Homes” profiles celebrate our homes (and apartment programs), the people who live there, and the staff who support them. Let’s learn about the Nelson Place home in Minnetonka!

The Nelson Place home is led by Program Manager Brenda Witt. Brenda has worked with Hammer & NER for 17 years. Nelson Place is the third home she has supported. Brenda previously worked at a day program for people with traumatic brain injuries.

Let’s meet the other staff at Nelson Place:

Gismos

Gismos (Lead DSP) joined Nelson Place in August 2024. Gismos likes to cook. Making ribs is one of her specialties. She also enjoys taking everyone out for walks at the mall or other activities in the community. She recently took one of the guys out to a Twins game. Gismos likes spending one-on-one time with the individuals or hanging out with them as a group. “Her position is so important to us,” says Brenda. “Otherwise, we wouldn’t be able to go out as much as we do during the week.”

Tom has been at Nelson Place for nearly 10 years. “Tom has a great ability to serve the guys in ways that meet their needs,” Brenda says. “He makes bath time fun for one of the guys and has found that making silly jokes and rhyming works well with another individual.” Tom has a good rapport with everyone and treats each person as an individual. He also knows how to manage their time well. “They discuss what needs to be done and how to get it done on time,” Brenda says, “such as when and what to pack for going away for the weekend to visit family. He is great at managing details.”  

Leo

Leo joined Nelson Place nearly eight years ago. “He takes the guys out a lot,” says Brenda. “One of them adores Leo and the families adore him as well. He spends a lot of one-on-one time with one individual on the weekends.” Leo takes the guys out for walks around the malls or out to parks in the neighborhood. They also enjoy bowling and participating in the Hammer & NER bowling league.

Jordan

Jordan is new to Nelson Place—he was hired in January. Brenda says Jordan has previously worked in this field. “He is a fast learner and is really on top of things,” she says. “He goes the extra mile, which I appreciate.”

Now, let’s meet the guys of Nelson Place:

Todd

Todd moved to the Nelson Place home in 2013. He likes to play basketball and Skee-Ball. He also enjoys going to Chucky Cheese. “Todd has grown so much with his social skills,” says Brenda. “We’ve worked on encouraging him to come out of his room and now he likes to hang out with staff in the common areas. He’s come a long way. Once he meets you and you tell him your name, he’ll never forget it.” Todd attends a day program and is learning job skills. Brenda says he loves music and has attended many concerts. His favorite singers include Katy Perry, Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, Shakira, and Taylor Swift. In fact, he recently saw Katy Perry in concert. He also watches music videos on his computer.

Michael C.

Michael C. is a homebody and has a very set routine. “Over the years he has learned to advocate for himself, which is a huge growth area and need for him,” Brenda says. “He knows what he wants and the order he wants it in. He’s also very good at advocating for himself. Routine in absolutely everything to him.” While Michael only has the use of one hand, he does an amazing job at accomplishing daily life skills on his own such as dressing himself. One of his favorite activities is swinging on the swing in the basement. “He will swing for an hour twice a day while listening to his favorite album, Eric Clapton’s Unplugged,” says Brenda. “He also enjoys sitting outside on the bench, whether it’s during the heat of summer or the cold of winter.”

Sam

Sam loves gaming and is a foodie. He likes to travel with his family and enjoys talking on the phone with them each day. He spends most weekends with his family. They have pets which he loves. “We’ve obtained a job coach for him,” says Brenda. “He goes to a day program while he looks for a job.” Sam is very personable, loves to meet new people, and will ask about your family and your pets and will remember the details. “He’s truly interested in people and their families,” Brenda says. “And he carries a smile on his face that never seems to go away.”

Michael M.

Michael M. loves music and has an impressive library of music. “He loves to sing and dance and knows the lyrics to a lot of songs,” says Brenda. “He’s our music man.” Michael also enjoys shopping, especially for snacks and his beloved Coke Zero. “He’s a big helper around the house too,” says Brenda. “He sets the dinner table, fills drinks, and helps staff by getting things from the refrigerator in the garage or opening the garage door for staff when they arrive. He also makes his own lunches.” Michael’s room is below Todd’s, and they learned they can talk to each other through the air vents. He likes spending time with family, especially up at the lake. He also goes on the annual Community Life fishing trip every year.

What drew you to this work?
Brenda: I remember when I was first interviewed, I was asked why I wanted to work here, and I said that a smile from an individual makes my day. When that smile comes around, or an impromptu dance move or singing, that just means everything to me.

Brenda

What makes this program special?
Brenda: All the guys are friends, they’re all in their 30s. They do their own laundry and have their own goals like working on losing weight. Hammer & NER recently bought every individual a portion plate and so we are all learning more about healthy portions and nutrition. They also like to play basketball in the driveway. Sometimes our Program Director, Anna Byro, will come over to shoot hoops with them. Gismos played basketball in high school, so she and I play with them, too.

How are families and guardians involved?
Brenda: Families here are great; they help us a lot. We recently had our house gathering and they were so helpful with that. They are very involved with their loved ones—we’re a big happy family in that regard. All four of our individuals have family connections every weekend, some may go to church or spend the weekend with family.

There’s something unique about the name “Nelson Place,” tell me about that.
Brenda: Our name doesn’t come from the street we’re located on like most of our Hammer & NER homes. The home was opened in 2011 shortly after our CEO, Tim Nelson, suddenly passed away. We’re named after him. Also, we live on Caribou Drive, and we didn’t want new staff ending up at Caribou Coffee so “Nelson Place” was a great choice.

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