Update on Potential Merger (reprint of 11/12/24 email)

We would like to provide an update on the next steps regarding the proposed merger between Hammer & NER and Living Well Disability Services. In October, work group leaders presented their progress to the Board of Directors of each organization.

The Board of Directors from each organization have voted in favor of proceeding with the next steps of the proposed merger. With this decision made, the organizations will continue some deeper examination of the proposed merger, while also beginning to build the vision and structure of what a combined future would look and feel like.

As we enter this next phase, we look forward to the potential of a unified organization and the synergies that unite us:

• Our closely aligned missions, placing the people we serve and their families at the center of all we do
• Our shared commitment to excellence, benefiting both the individuals we serve and our dedicated staff
• Our combined expertise, ensuring we maintain our high standard for person centered, compassionate care
• An expanded presence across the metro area, broadening our reach and impact for those we currently serve while creating new areas of strength and opportunity
• Each organization’s stability and financial security as a solid foundation for a combined future

We are encouraged by the possibilities that lie ahead and the impact that a unified organization would have on the future. Negotiations and planning will continue in 2025. If both organizations chose to continue, the process is expected to conclude in January 2026 with the development of a new, combined organization.

We anticipate our next update, coming in January 2025, will provide more definitive information on our future direction. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our missions.

Give to the Max Day is November 21

Together, we are Giving for Good on Minnesota's statewide day of giving. We would love 50 new donors to make their first gift. Your gift before 11:59 p.m. Thursday, November 21 will be matched by a $75,000 Friends and Family Challenge! Donate here: Give to the Max 2024 - Hammer

We’re hosting an open house lunch (11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.) at both of our offices on Thursday, November 21 and invite you to join us. Stop by, make your donation, and warm your heart and tummy with a bowl of chili!

• West metro office (1909 Wayzata Blvd., Wayzata)
• East metro office (2539 County Rd E East, White Bear Lake)

Halloween Fun

Our Community Life team came through once again with lots of fun Halloween activities for those we support, including Trick or Treating and Haunted Houses at our West and East offices. Thank you to all our staff and volunteers who made everything possible. Check out some photos from our Halloween events.

News from Our Health Services Team

As we head into flu season, we have been administering flu shots at our East and West offices for the people we support. We also have COVID tests in case we need to test people we support who show signs of the illness. We are encouraging those we support to get the COVID vaccine from their primary care doctor or a drug store, if they or their guardians want them to receive it.

In addition, we are in the process of hiring a nurse to support our apartment programs. Our Registered Dietician and Nursing team are working on the final steps of updating prescribed diets and implementing a new menu system, including training for staff. This new system will be implemented at the beginning of 2025.