Thanks to Donors Like YOU Jon is Doing Well. The past two years have been tough for many people. For my brother, Jon, it was particularly devastating. In March, 2020, Vonnie Olson, our mom, had a heart attack and died. 79 days later Pastor Orville Olson, our father, died of Covid. Jon was stunned...
By: Samantha Wolf – Hammer Communications Specialist As families around the country are getting back into the swing of the school year, I found myself contemplating the history of school at Hammer. As many of our readers may know, Hammer Residences began as Hammer School, giving Hammer a...
By Lindsay Carlson, Communication Intern Hammer supports two couples who are celebrating their first and second wedding anniversaries this week. Congrats to Adam & Susan (left) married 2 years and to Andy & Molly (right) married 1 year! Adam and Susan celebrated their second...
Betsy Gadbois – Director of Person Centered Practices Owakihi Betsy will be presenting at the Hammer Family Education Forum on Thursday, May 5th. Sign up to attend the Family Education Forum here. Person Centered Planning is a term used to describe a variety of approaches used to help a...
The following is a guest article written by Special Olympics Board Member and brother, Jamie Spencer. Have you ever witnessed a stranger perform a gesture so simple yet impactful that it left a lasting impression on you? I’d like to introduce you to “Johnny the Bagger” and his story. Why is such a...
By Ashley Baggentoss, Assistant Program Manager I’ve only been at Hammer a little over 4 months. But, I’ve already had the opportunity to support the ladies of Sumac through many changes including: a move to a brand new house, welcoming a new housemate, and the introductions of new staff. One of...
By Katie Jo Houtman My name is Katie Jo Houtman, and I was born with Prader-Willi syndrome. This condition affects the area of the brain responsible for appetite control. It also causes poor muscle tone, a very high percentage of body fat and lack of energy. Because of Prader-Willi syndrome, my...
By Dan Pysno, Program Manager We all have a routine. It makes life more predictable and less scary. It helps us feel organized. Generally, routine plays an important role for individuals at Hammer. It is also an integral part of the day to day work of our staff teams. Routine serves a purpose and...
by Levi Martinka, Hammer Volunteer My sister Joy has Down syndrome. Some may consider having a sibling with a disability to be a burden. In my mind, it is, and always has been, a blessing. Despite being my younger sister, she has greatly shaped my life (whether she knows it or not). Because she is...
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