My connection with Hammer Residences began in the 1990s, before Hammer moved to their current office building. I met with Ellen Timmerman-Borer in hopes of doing graphic design work as an independent contractor. We met a number of times over the next year or two as Ellen made some decisions on working with new graphic designers.

Karen (right) volunteering at Reach for Ralph 2014.

Then, on a beautiful summer day, I was hiking deep in the woods with my husband and two small children on the Superior Trail in Northern Minnesota. It was deserted until we saw another family approaching. As we got closer, the woman called my name: “Karen, is that you?” It took me a second to recognize the voice and face, but sure enough, it was Ellen.

She took our unlikely wilderness meeting as a sign that we should work together, and we have ever since. Over the years I have produced newsletters, annual reports, appeals, and brochures for Hammer. I have volunteered on a number of projects, served on the arts committee and have even painted a few of the big Ralph statues you see around Wayzata.

Hammer has truly enriched my life. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed everyone I have met and worked with over the years. I am constantly amazed by the care and support each employee provides to improve and enhance the lives of the individuals they serve. I consider it an honor to help share just some of the many amazing stories of this great organization.

Now that summer is here, Reach for Ralph is quickly approaching. This annual benefit is always an exciting event! This year I have been lucky enough to design the invitation and program using the colorful art of Robin Westergreen who lives in an apartment supported by Hammer. It is a joy to meet other Hammer supporters at the event and I cannot wait to see what magic the night will unfold.

I sincerely value my connection to Hammer and plan to stay connected for years to come!

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Rebecca Furnival was this year’s chairperson. Her creativity and enthusiasm were matched only by her dedication to Hammer. Rebecca is a board member and we proudly serve her sister, Susie.

Volunteering at Hammer is often a family affair and our Reach for Ralph committee was a classic example. This year we had three mother–son teams on the planning committee:

Kim Gillespie has 2 sons, Tom and Kevin, working at Hammer and she generously gave of her time and talents.

Caroline Harrington and her son Devin, our Communication Specialist, were both strong supporters.

Peggy Sellwood and her son Peter Sellwood were also very active on the planning committee.

Thanks also to the staff at the Nicollet Island Pavilion, Auction Harmony, Heavenly Hosts Catering, The Neighborhood Trio and Glen Fladeboe our auctioneer for all of your services.

As Event Coordinator, it was my great pleasure to work with all of these wonderful people.

We were delighted to have family members of Ralph Rosenvold, our event’s namesake and inspiration, in attendance.

During the program we recognized Leslie Fish, James McKune and the Martinka family who were featured in our “Hammer Conversation” videos. Karen Thorud was surprised to receive a trip to New York City, courtesy of Coldwell Banker Burnet, one of our two presenting sponsors. Warner’s Stellian, our other presenting sponsor, and 36 other sponsors also gave generously to help make the evening happen.

Fundraising events – such as Reach for Ralph – are a wonderful way to build awareness, community support and raise significant funds for Hammer. It’s also a great way to reconnect with many old and dear friends of Hammer. I hope that everyone involved enjoyed the evening as much as I did.

Thank you also to all the Hammer staff members that support our efforts all year long.

It was an evening filled with generosity and tremendous community support. We all were able to make dreams come true for many well-deserving individuals.

Ginger Venable

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