November is National Family Caregivers Month—a time to honor the remarkable individuals who devote themselves to caring for their loved ones. Across the country, estimates are that more than 50 million family members provide essential support for aging parents, spouses, or relatives with chronic conditions, disabilities, or memory challenges. These caregivers are the unsung heroes of our communities, offering love, patience, and unwavering dedication, often balancing caregiving with careers, family responsibilities, and personal commitments.

At Ebenezer, we deeply appreciate the care and compassion that family caregivers provide daily. Their role is invaluable, yet we recognize that caregiving can also be demanding—emotionally, physically, and mentally. For many, the challenges of caregiving can lead to burnout or the need for additional support. That’s why we’re here to help.

The Importance of Self-Care for Family Caregivers

It’s natural for caregivers to focus entirely on the needs of their loved ones. However, caring for yourself is equally important. Taking breaks, finding time for personal pursuits, and having a support system can make a world of difference. Resources like respite care and adult day programs offer family caregivers the opportunity to recharge while ensuring their loved ones receive high-quality care in a safe, supportive environment.

Ebenezer is proud to offer services designed to lighten the load for caregivers while enhancing the quality of life for their loved ones.

Ebenezer’s Adult Day Programs

Our Adult Day Programs provide structured activities, social interaction, and professional care during the day. These programs offer your loved one a chance to engage in enriching activities and make new friends, while you can use the time to rest, work, or take care of other responsibilities. Learn more about how adult day programs can benefit both caregivers and participants here.

Respite Care: A Much-Needed Break

For those needing a more extended break, Ebenezer offers Stay by the Day Respite Care—these short-term stays provide peace of mind for caregivers and residents alike. Whether it’s for a vacation, or time to recover from caregiver burnout, respite care ensures your loved one continues to receive compassionate and professional support in a homelike environment. With a minimum stay of 14 days, Stay be the Day Respite Care is available at most Ebenezer assisted living locations.

A Thank You to Family Caregivers

This month, we celebrate the extraordinary efforts of family caregivers. You make countless sacrifices to ensure your loved ones feel supported, respected, and loved. Your dedication embodies the spirit of compassion and resilience.

If you or someone you know could benefit from additional support, consider exploring Ebenezer’s programs and services. Taking time for yourself isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity to maintain the strength and energy required for caregiving.

Learn more about National Family Caregivers Month and find additional resources for caregivers by visiting

At Ebenezer, we’re here to help you navigate the challenges of caregiving with services designed to support you and your loved ones. This November let’s honor caregivers by offering them the recognition—and support—they deserve.

Contact us today to learn more about our adult day programs, respite care options, and other services designed to make caregiving a little easier. Together, we can ensure that both caregivers and their loved ones thrive.

Jon Lundberg, the recently retired President and CEO of Ebenezer Senior Living, has been awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from LeadingAge Minnesota. This honor, bestowed only eight times in the organization's history, recognizes visionary leaders who have made a profound impact on the senior care services sector.

Years of Service
Jon joined Ebenezer in 2007 as Chief Operating Officer and stepped into the role of President and CEO in 2017. Under his leadership, Ebenezer experienced remarkable growth, more than tripling our HOA sites and significantly increasing the number of managed communities. But Jon's influence extends far beyond numbers—he has been a guiding force during some of the most challenging times in recent history.

Throughout his tenure, Jon's leadership style was often described by his peers as "calm, collected, and unflappable," qualities that were particularly evident during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the social unrest following George Floyd's murder in 2020. His focus remained steadfast on caring for our staff, ensuring they were equipped to continue delivering comprehensive and compassionate services to the older adults in our care.

Strong Foundation
Todd Willett, Chief Financial Officer of Ebenezer, aptly summarized Jon's impact: "Jon Lundberg’s steady leadership and deep care for both residents and employees have been key to Ebenezer’s growth. His authenticity has fostered a culture where people feel valued and empowered. That strong foundation will enable Ebenezer to continue innovating, overcoming challenges, and thriving."

Proud Legacy
Jon’s legacy at Ebenezer and in the wider aging services field is one of consistency, trustworthiness, and a relentless commitment to improving the lives of Minnesota’s older adults. While his presence will be missed, the values he instilled and the culture he nurtured will continue to drive our mission forward.

As Jon reflects on his time at Ebenezer, he shares, “Throughout my time at Ebenezer, I’ve witnessed the opening of new doors and the emergence of new pathways, reflecting our enduring commitment to serving our residents with dignity, integrity, and compassion. The innovation and quality of care that define Ebenezer will undoubtedly persist.”

We wish Jon nothing but the best in his well-deserved retirement and extend our deepest gratitude for his years of visionary leadership.

At Ebenezer Senior Living, we see firsthand how Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia impact the lives of our residents and their families every day. That’s why we proudly participate in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s in the Twin Cities each year. This event is more than just a walk; it’s a movement to fight the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death and the only disease in the top 10 without a way to prevent, cure, or even slow its progression.

Supporting Critical Research and Care

The funds raised through the Walk to End Alzheimer’s directly support the Alzheimer's Association's vital work, including funding for research, care, support, and advocacy efforts. These contributions help advance critical research to find new treatments, improve care, and ultimately find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. Research funded by the Alzheimer's Association has led to groundbreaking discoveries in understanding the causes of Alzheimer's, the development of new treatment approaches, and the potential for early diagnosis.

Witnessing the Impact of Alzheimer's Every Day

At Ebenezer, we are reminded daily of the impact Alzheimer’s has on the individuals we care for and their loved ones. Through our exclusive Dimensions® memory care program, we are dedicated to ensuring that our residents with dementia receive exceptional, compassionate care that meets them exactly where they are in their journey. We recognize that while we cannot change the diagnosis, we can change the experience for both our residents and their families.

How Our Dimensions® Program Makes a Difference

Our Dimensions® program is designed to offer a holistic approach to memory care, focusing on evidence-based practices that make a real difference in the lives of our residents:

Wellness: We provide person-centered, relationship-based care with an emphasis on hydration and nutrition to ensure comfort and well-being for all dementia patients.

Training: We deliver innovative, ongoing, hands-on education to our staff to ensure they are equipped with the tools and knowledge to care for our residents with compassion and creativity.

Engagement: We foster purposeful, pleasurable, and creative interactions and activities to enhance the quality of life for our residents.

Environment: We create calm, supportive environments that seek psychosocial solutions to promote comfort and reduce anxiety.

Education and Support: We provide education and support to families and care partners, recognizing that they play a crucial role in the well-being of our residents.

Our dedicated Dimensions Coordinator oversees this multi-faceted program, ensuring it remains dynamic, evidence-based, and focused on making a dramatic difference in the lives of those we serve.

Walking Together for a Common Cause

Participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s allows Ebenezer Senior Living to stand with countless others in the Twin Cities community who are affected by this devastating disease. It is an opportunity for our staff, residents, families, and friends to come together, share stories, support one another, and raise much-needed funds for a cause that touches all of us. We walk because we know how deeply Alzheimer’s affects the people we care for, and we are committed to being part of the solution.

Join Us in Making a Difference

We invite you to join us in supporting the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can help fund critical research and bring hope to those affected by Alzheimer’s. By walking with Ebenezer Senior Living, you are walking for a brighter future — a future where Alzheimer's no longer steals memories, independence, and lives.

Let's walk together, for our residents, for our families, and for a world without Alzheimer’s. 

Ebenezer is thrilled to announce the appointment of Brett K. Anderson as the new president and chief executive officer, effective July 29. Anderson will succeed Jon Lundberg, who will retire in September, following a dedicated tenure of leadership and service.

"I am honored and excited to join Ebenezer, a top Minnesota workplace and an organization known for its commitment to excellence and compassionate care," said Anderson. "I look forward to working with the dedicated staff, residents, and their families to continue building on Ebenezer’s strong foundation to enhance the lives of older adults and their families.”

Anderson joins Ebenezer and Fairview from Ecumen, where he served as senior vice president, and chief operations and strategy officer. A registered nurse, Anderson began his career in 2011 and has continuously expanded his leadership capabilities, leveraging his clinical background. Recently honored by the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal as one of 40 Leaders Under 40, Anderson's achievements, community involvement, and industry leadership are well recognized. He has also received the Distinguished Alumni – Young Alumni Award from Minnesota State University, Mankato.

"Brett's broad leadership experience and his ability to connect with staff, residents, and families make him an excellent fit for Ebenezer,” said Dr. Susan Pleasants, Fairview’s Senior Vice President of Optimal Care. "We are confident that he will continue to advance Ebenezer's mission of providing exceptional care and support to residents.”

Scott Wordelman, Chair of the Ebenezer Board of Directors, stated, “It was crucial for us to find a servant leader who embodies Ebenezer’s values, possesses extensive and collaborative leadership experience in senior services, and is passionate about the future of senior services and our organization. Brett exemplifies all these qualities and more.”

Anderson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Minnesota State University, Mankato, a master's degree in nursing leadership and management, and is currently pursuing his Doctor of Philosophy in management and public service. 

Ebenezer is extremely grateful for the many nurses who work in our communities. We are happy to recognize and honor their contributions, their knowledge, and their dedication to making a difference every day.  

While our nurses have diverse backgrounds and many have taken different paths to arrive at Ebenezer, they have one thing in common—the exceptional care they provide to Ebenezer residents. This week, as we celebrate Nurses Week 2024, we are turning a spotlight on a few of our many special nurses.  

Kirsten, RN (Registered Nurse) 
Regional Assisted Living Health Service Specialist 
Ebenezer Corporate 

An Ebenezer employee for more than 17 years, Kirsten began her career at Ebenezer Ridges Campus when she was 17. Although she started out as a nurse’s aide, Kirsten was encouraged by the Ridges leadership to become an LPN and eventually an RN. 

Ebenezer Support 
Ebenezer provided scholarships that helped Kirsten to become an LPN. Leadership at Ebenezer Ridges allowed Kirsten to have the flexible scheduling she needed to successfully attend classes and study while she completed her LPN as well as her RN. 

Career Opportunities 
After several years with Ebenezer Ridges Campus, Kirsten joined Riley Crossing as a support RN and then DHS. Recently, Kirsten joined Ebenezer Corporate as a Regional Assisted Living Health Service Specialist. 

Favorite or Most Rewarding Part of the Job
Meeting new staff and residents and hearing their stories. Having her children attend Ebenezer Ridges Childcare. 

How Kirsten Makes a Difference Every Day
Using her knowledge and experience to relate to the residents. 

Fun Fact  
Ashley Jackson, Executive Director at Amira Choice Lexington, began her career as a nurse’s aide with Kirsten.  

Lili, LPN 
Ebenezer Integrated Care & Rehab 

Lili has worked at Ebenezer for more than 11 years. She began her career as a nursing assistant intern at Ebenezer Care Center in Minneapolis and became an LPN in 2017. 

Ebenezer Support 
Lili is grateful for the training and support she received from Ebenezer, along with the flexible scheduling that allowed her to complete her LPN course. She also received financial aid to cover the costs of classes.  

Career Opportunities 

Lili was offered a position at the Ebenezer Integrated Care & Rehab (EICR) in St. Paul, and she is happy to continue her career with Ebenezer. 

Favorite or Most Rewarding Part of the Job 

She is always happy to help and enjoys working with her clients and their families. Helping people to get better so they can return home makes Lili happy.  

How Lili Makes a Difference Every Day 

“I make difference by trying to know everyone I interact with—coworker or resident. I try to work as team, assist as needed, and I always reach out to the management when I see something unusual or something we can do for the workplace improvement.” 

Denise, RN 
Director of Health Services 
Vernon Terrace 

Denise was recruited to join the Ebenezer team and is now in her thirteenth year of employment. With a background working in a clinic setting as well as working for home care companies, Denise has an impressive list of accomplishments. 

Ebenezer Support 

As a float nurse with Ebenezer, Denise learned to appreciate the consistency and excellence of the Ebenezer system where everything is done the same way in each location.  

Career Opportunities 

Denise is now serving as the Director of Health Services at Vernon Terrace. 

Favorite or Most Rewarding Part of the Job 

“No day is like the day before. I love getting to know the residents.” 

How Denise Makes a Difference Every Day 

Being open to staff and residents and going above and beyond for whoever needs you.  

Beth, RN, BSN, LALD 
Director of Health Services 
The Sanctuary at St. Cloud 

With more than 10 years of experience as a nurse in long term care, home care and hospice, and assisted living, Beth was used to getting calls from recruiters. She was not surprised when a recruiter called to set up an interview for her at the Sanctuary at St. Cloud. What surprised her was how much she immediately felt like she was part of the team. Their camaraderie and friendliness made her feel like The Sanctuary at St. Cloud would be a great place to work.  

Ebenezer Support 

Beth has been at The Sanctuary at St. Cloud for a year and a half. She appreciates the support she receives from her team and the way they work together to meet challenges. 

Favorite or Most Rewarding Part of the Job 

“Being able to provide excellent care to residents and to see how your care has impacted and improved their lives.” She also appreciates the consistency of care that residents receive.  

How Beth Makes a Difference Every Day 

Getting to know the residents on a personal level. She also looks for opportunities to build a rapport with everyone.

Julie, BSN, RN 
Director of Health Services 
Orchards of Minnetonka 

A relative newcomer to Ebenezer, Julie has been at Orchards of Minnetonka for five months. Julie has been a registered nurse for 22 years and has experience as a nursing manager. She came to Ebenezer as the assistant Director of Health Services and is now the Director of Health Services at Orchards of Minnetonka.  

Ebenezer Support 
Julie is impressed with the training and career support she’s received from Ebenezer leadership and the autonomy she has to make decisions. 

Career Opportunities 
Ebenezer’s policy to promote from within played a role in her moving from assistant director of Health Services to Director of Health Services. 

Favorite or Most Rewarding Part of the Job 

Using her skills to enhance patient outcomes and seeing the smiles on the residents’ faces and knowing she has made a meaningful difference in their lives. 

How Julie Makes a Difference Every Day 
“Being available to use my professional experience and knowledge to ensure we are functioning to the highest standards of care and keeping communication open between the team, the residents and their families.” 

Angie, RN 
Director of Health Services 
Amira Choice Roseville  

Since May 2012, Angie has worked at Ebenezer. She began her career with Ebenezer as a care attendant. Soon after, she realized she wanted to become an LPN. Ebenezer team leaders recognized Angie’s potential and supported her in the quest to achieve her goals. Angie went on to become a registered nurse and is now Director of Health Services at Amira Choice Roseville. 

Ebenezer Support 

Angie credits her supervisor, Pam Jacobson, RN, for inspiring her along her career path. Pam not only served as a role model for Angie, but she also provided Angie with the support and flexible scheduling she needed to complete her training. 

Career Opportunities 

From care attendant to float nurse to Director of Health Services, Angie was able to make the most of the opportunities and support Ebenezer provided.  

Favorite or Most Rewarding Part of the Job 

“I like that I am able to support residents in different ways through their journey not only in moving here, but through their end of life. It is a gift. I also like that I can provide support to our staff.” 

How Angie Makes a Difference Every Day 

Always saying hello to everyone with a smile, acknowledging them and checking in on them to see how they are doing.  

Ebenezer is proud of the amazing nurses on our team, and we wish we could feature every one of them! As we celebrate Nurse’s Week, we thank all nurses for their compassion and dedication in every health care setting. Thank you for all you do and for making a difference every day! 

Edina, MN – April 17, 2024 – Ebenezer, a leader in senior living options and services, proudly announces that 26 of its communities have been awarded the prestigious 2024 U.S. News Best of Senior Living awards. This remarkable achievement places Ebenezer among the top 18 companies nationwide, demonstrating that over 50% of its communities have earned this esteemed recognition.

The U.S. News Best of Senior Living awards celebrate excellence in senior living communities across the United States, recognizing communities that provide outstanding care and services in Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. The awards are based on rigorous evaluations including resident satisfaction, care quality, and overall community excellence. Achieving this distinction is a testament to the high standards and commitment to excellence at Ebenezer communities.

“Our dedicated teams at each community have worked to ensure a high level of care and service for residents," said Jon Lundberg, CEO and President of Ebenezer. "This recognition by U.S. News is not only an honor but a reflection of our commitment to enriching the lives of seniors we serve."

The following Ebenezer communities have been recognized in various categories, highlighting their commitment to providing exceptional senior living experiences:

1. Amira Choice Forest Lake: Best Independent Living, Best Assisted Living, Best Memory Care
2. Amira Choice Naples: Best Memory Care
3. Amira Choice Plymouth: Best Memory Care
4. Amira Choice Roseville at Lexington: Best Independent Living, Best Assisted Living
5. Arbors at Ridges: Best Assisted Living
6. Arbor Glen: Best Independent Living, Best Assisted Living, Best Memory Care
7. Arbor Lane: Best Assisted Living, Best Memory Care
8. Deephaven Woods Senior Living: Best Assisted Living
9. Deer Crest: Best Independent Living, Best Assisted Living
10. Meadows on Fairview: Best Assisted Living
11. Nine Mile Creek Senior Living: Best Independent Living
12. Northern Lakes Senior Living: Best Assisted Living
13. Orchards of Minnetonka: Best Independent Living, Best Assisted Living
14. Riley Crossing: Best Assisted Living
15. Savage Senior Living at Fen Pointe: Best Independent Living
16. Stonehaven of Eagan: Best Independent Living, Best Assisted Living, Best Memory Care
17. The Fountains at Hosanna: Best Independent Living, Best Assisted Living, Best Memory Care
18. The Pillars of Grand Rapids: Best Independent Living, Best Assisted Living
19. The Pillars of Lakeville: Best Independent Living, Best Assisted Living
20. The Pillars of Mankato: Best Independent Living, Best Assisted Living, Best Memory Care
21. The Pillars of Prospect Park: Best Independent Living, Best Memory Care
22. The Sycamore of River Falls: Best Independent Living, Best Assisted Living
23. The Trails of Orono: Best Assisted Living, Best Memory Care
24. Tinta Wita Tipi: Best Independent Living
25. Vernon Terrace: Best Independent Living, Best Assisted Living
26. Willows Bend Senior Living: Best Independent Living, Best Assisted Living

This extensive list of awards underscores Ebenezer’s role as a leader in the senior living sector and its dedication to providing superior care and lifestyle options for seniors. 

Whether it’s discharge planning, connecting families to vital services, or counseling people about life changing decisions, social workers and senior living community leaders make a real difference. They help to identify people and communities in need of help, create actions plans and connect those in need to community resources that can help them recover, adjust to, and/or improve their situation—from healthcare access, housing, and legal aid.  

Social Workers and Community Leaders in Long-Term Care 

The role of social workers and leaders alike in long-term care is a vital link to ensuring that vulnerable adults are getting the care and services they need to live their best lives. Kayla Luraas, LNHA, LALD, Campus Administrator at Ebenezer-owned Meadows on Fairview, sees social workers as playing an important role in successfully managing the care transition from hospital to transitional care. “Our social workers are the face of our community. The hospitals know that they can depend on them to connect residents with the resources they need to successfully transition from acute to post-acute care and beyond.”  

Making these connections is just part of the day for Megan Szymik, Director of Social Services at Ebenezer’s Martin Luther Campus. From the minute she gets to the office, until she leaves for the day Megan works hard to improve the lives of the people around her. Whether she’s solving problems for residents and their families, or interacting with her talented team of social workers, Megan is always ready to help.  

Like most social workers, Megan’s compassion runs as deep as her dedication to her job. “I’ve been at Ebenezer for 10 years—ever since I graduated from college. I love it here. We are like a family.” Over the years, Megan has seen a change in the types of residents she’s seeing. “Our patients are getting younger, and they have more chronic health issues; our community is doing more wound care than we ever have done before. We are seeing an increase in the need for mental health services.” Megan notes that not all of the residents she serves have support from their families, the social services team at Martin Luther is there to bridge that gap and connect them to the community and to the services they need.  

As the needs change so does the role but one thing that doesn’t change is the dedication to service and the satisfaction Megan gets from helping others. “My favorite part of doing what I do is interacting with residents, she says, “it brings me so much joy to be able to make people comfortable, to not only connect them with the care and services they need, but to make sure they know that they are part of our Martin Luther Campus family.” 

Wearing Many Hats 

“To be a social worker, you’ve got to be part advocate, part counselor, part detective and part coach,” said Lisa Jagger, MSW, Palliative Care Social Worker with UC Health. And while her description about social workers is accurate, many would happily add part superhero and part angel—as social workers sometimes rush in where angels fear to tread.  

“We wear many hats,” continued Lisa, “in addition to navigating the healthcare system, we have to know about the law and the legal system. We work with patients and families when they are most vulnerable, and they put their trust in us to help guide them through making difficult decisions.” 

Lisa went on to say, “You have so much empathy for people as they go through their struggles. You dearly want to have the answers for them, but you can’t always have the answers. That’s so difficult. Sometimes the only thing you can do is just to be there for them.” 

This week, we are celebrating social workers and senior living community leaders and all they do for the community and beyond. We thank them for the many contributions they make to improve the lives of others!  

More than 17% of the U.S. population is 65 and older. That means every year more and more people are beginning the search for senior living. In the past, options for senior housing were limited. Fortunately, there are more senior living options available today than ever before.  

The idea of a one size fits all solution has been replaced by a variety of senior housing options designed to meet the care needs and personal preferences of older adults—while preserving their independence and helping them make the most of their lives. 

Improvements in health care, nutrition and access to information have helped people to live longer, however, living longer doesn’t mean living life unchanged. As you age, you may need different housing choices and accommodations—and the senior housing market has produced a variety of choices as broad as the market it serves. 

When you are choosing senior living, you’ll have more choices than ever before. Navigating the different levels of senior living can be difficult. That’s why it’s a good idea to get to know the different levels of senior living before you start your search.  

Independent Senior Living 

For those who want to live on their own, independent living provides the opportunity to live within a senior community without the work and worry of maintaining your home and yard. 

Independent senior housing options include senior cooperatives and condominiums. You get the perks of home ownership without the maintenance and upkeep. You’ll enjoy life on your own, in your home within a community created for older adults and healthy aging. Fitness rooms, walking and bike trails, and community rooms for parties provide you with the perfect location to live your best life.  

Independent living located within an assisted living community lets you maintain your independence but leaves your options open. Your apartment home gives you access to the best of both worlds— the privacy and independence you want, with opportunities to join in community events, create a meal plan if desired; and live a maintenance-free lifestyle with the option to add personal care and services.  

If you need a little extra help, you can contract services such as housekeeping or personal care. If you find you consistently need more help, it might be time to consider assisted living.  

Assisted Living 

Whether you need help with dressing, bathing, cooking, or cleaning, you can get care and services in your private apartment home. Assisted living may provide weekly housekeeping, a choice of meal plans plus the personal assistance that will help you live as independently as you can. In addition, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in planned activities, field trips and weekly happy hours. Many who live in assisted living communities find that the social life is a real bonus! 

Memory Care 

For those living with memory loss, Alzheimer’s, or dementia, memory care neighborhoods—usually located within the assisted living community—offer uniquely designed apartments and specialized programming. Caregivers are specially trained to provide person-centered care and attention to individual care needs. Controlled access entrances and exits give families peace of mind. 

Nursing Homes (Long-term Skilled Care) 

For those who need 24-hour care, long-term skilled nursing offers around-the-clock health care support and daily assistance. Skilled care offers the highest levels of senior living care. Nursing homes are licensed healthcare facilities inspected and regulated by the state department of health.  

Location 

As you navigate different levels of senior living, in addition to finding a community that meets your care needs, you should also keep in mind that the location of the community is also important. Where do you want to live? Do you prefer the familiarity of your current location and want to find senior housing in your own community? Or do you look forward to moving closer to loved ones who may live in a different area? Perhaps you are interested in experiencing a new neighborhood altogether? Your personal preferences are an important factor in your decision. 

Budget  

Finally, what is your budget? Many times, when you add up the day-to-day expenses of maintaining a home, meals, housekeeping, and care attendants, you find that senior living communities are a wise choice.  

Whatever you need, Ebenezer is here to help. For more than 100 years, Ebenezer has provided trusted care for seniors, and with more than 120 senior communities in six states, Ebenezer can help you!  

Not only does Ebenezer offer all types of senior living communities, but we are also affiliated with Fairview Health Services. This means you have a wealth of resources at your disposal. 

On February 16th, we celebrate National Caregiver’s Day: honoring both career caregivers and unpaid family members and friends who play a critical role in the well-being of those who need help to live day to day. It’s been called the hardest job you’ll ever love. 

It’s no secret that as the population ages, both physical and mental disabilities can worsen. Many rely on help to get through their daily routines. Long-term chronic diseases and disabilities are affecting more people each year—with nearly one in five Americans providing unpaid care to an adult with health or functional needs.  

Caregiving can take many forms, help with daily activities such as dressing, bathing and meal prep, or something as simple as running errands or paying bills. Caregivers also provide emotional support to those they care for, which can take a toll on their own physical and mental health.  

Personal Caregiving: A Balancing Act

“I just didn’t expect it to be this hard,” said Bev, a 59-year-old dietitian who has provided care for her mother over the last three years. Bev went on to say, “Mom is a sweetheart and I’m happy to be with her, but it gets a physically and mentally exhausting after a while.” Bev realized that she was spending more than 37 hours per week caring for her mother—which in addition to her full-time job, left little time for her own family. 

“Since I was the only one still living near mom, I assumed all the caregiving tasks. When I finally explained to my siblings what was going on, they immediately offered to help, and we split up a lot of the duties. Now the time I spend with mom is more enjoyable to me because I’m not rushing around and trying to get everything done. I realize this is a gift to have this time with her and I am grateful.” 

The Rewards of Caregiving

Whether paid or unpaid, caregivers express that caregiving can be a very rewarding experience. “I love my job and the people I help,” said Roy, a Resident Assistant at Pillars of Prospect Park, an Ebenezer communty. Roy joined the Ebenezer team because he wanted to change careers. “Ebenezer provided excellent training. Even though I had never done this before, I had confidence in what I was doing because of the support I got from my team,” said Roy, who has now been with Ebenezer for more than four years. 

“My favorite part of my job is getting to know the people I take care of. I realize that in receiving this kind of care from someone, there’s a vulnerability there. I understand that and I try to get to know them well and help them feel safe,” Roy continued. He spends his day assisting residents with daily activities, ensuring that they enjoy a high quality of life and maintain their dignity and independence. “I’ve developed some great friendships with the residents and their families. There are some amazing people here that make my job very enjoyable,” he shared. 

Whether you’re caring for a family member in an unpaid capacity or a professional caregiver, what you do makes a difference! Caregiving is an important public health resource that affects the quality of life for millions of individuals. National Caregiver’s Day is a great time to recognize and honor those individuals who selflessly provide personal care, and physical- and emotional support to those who need it most. Thank you for all you do.  

We are proud to announce that longtime Martin Luther Campus volunteer, Lloyd Ward, received the Volunteer of the Year award and Anna Weege, Administrative Assistant at Ebenezer’s home office in Edina, received LeadingAge Minnesota’s Rising Star Award. 

LeadingAge Minnesota is a network of mission-driven organizations serving older adults in all the places they call home. Each year they invite area providers to participate in an event connect and continue education for senior living. Before this event, there is an open call to recognize those who are making a difference in senior living, and those nominations are evaluated by a multi-disciplinary committee. This year's LeadingAge Minnesota Conference awards included two for Ebenezer! 

The Volunteer of the Year recognizes individuals who volunteer in older adult services, for their dedication, commitment, and positive impact on the lives of seniors and their communities. “Lloyd is known as committed to enhancing and enriching the lives of everyone he encounters,” says Kari Thurlow, President & CEO, LeadingAge Minnesota. “We are honored to recognize Lloyd for his dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of residents, family, and staff at Martin Luther Care Center.” 

Since 1988, Mr. Ward, 90, has dedicated more than 10,000 hours to volunteering at Martin Luther Care Center, enhancing the lives of countless seniors in Bloomington. For many years, Lloyd was the only man in the Martin Luther Auxiliary, a role he proudly served. His volunteer duties include assisting residents with dietary meals, guiding them to and from the dining room, aiding in meal selection, and engaging in 1:1 visits, building personal connections. We are so proud that Lloyd was recognized for over three decades of unwavering commitment and selfless service to the community. Ebenezer and Martin Luther Campus are blessed beyond belief to know Lloyd and to have him as a dedicated volunteer.

As the 2024 Rising Star Award recipient, Anna Weege is recognized as a person who stands out in her efforts to transform and enhance the experience of aging. “In her role, Anna goes beyond traditional administrative duties, engaging in process improvement, data analysis, task automation, and creating informative graphics,” stated Kari Thurlow, President and CEO of LeadingAge Minnesota. “When challenges arise, she is a catalyst for finding innovative solutions, ensuring the smooth functioning of the home office. Described as efficient, resourceful, creative, and quick-witted, she supports the senior leadership and site-based leaders of Minnesota's largest senior care organization."

In addition to her exemplary administrative skills, Weege possesses a unique ability to anticipate the needs of her team. Brenda Johnson, Vice President of Operations, expressed, “It’s uncanny how she knows what the team needs before we know we need it. She’s just that good. She is the engine that keeps the home office running. A star in the making.” Congratulations Anna, for your diverse, unique and indispensable talents, as well as your exceptional potential.