Our Community

Meet Our Community

Our community is extraordinary … rich with musicians, cooking-enthusiasts, passionate volunteers, curious learners, dedicated employees and so many more. Inspirational stories of our community members abound, and we are forever grateful for each and every one of them who make this place so special.

Get to know some of our stories. And when you find yourself inspired, find a way to get involved.

Anne and Ed Lundstrom

meet: Anne and Ed

December 2023

“We met so many people over the years through our work at LBSA; we are still connected to many of them,” Anne says. Read More

Roger Walia

meet: Roger

June 2023

Roger never misses a chance to serve others. In March, Roger celebrated his two-year anniversary as a Household Director (HD) at LBSA. Read More

Meet Doug

meet: Doug

April 2023

It’s possible you already know Doug. He has been an active part of this community for almost 90 years, and he has nearly as many interests as he has friends. Read More

Wendell Arneson

meet: Wendell

December 2022

Wendell Arneson knew from the age of six that he wanted to be an artist. So, it’s no surprise that LBSA and the local award-winning artist eventually found each other. Read More

meet: Mags & Molly

November 2022

“We do everything together. We’ve never been apart longer than two hours,” says nine-year-old Mags, about her littermate Molly. These two certified therapy dogs are always on the go and bring smiles to everyone, including at LBSA. Read More

Megan receiving spirit award from Sandi Gerdes

meet: Megan

September 2022

According to Qualified Developmental Disability Professional (QDDP) Megan Olson, the way clients are accepted in the community is one of her favorite things about working at Laura Baker Services Association (LBSA). Read More

David holding a microphone

meet: David

May 2022

David enjoys people. He is fun and curious – and after spending a minute or two with him, you’ll be answering questions and smiling. Read More

Jenny

meet: Jenny

May 2022

Jenny Solar is LBSA’s current music therapist. Read more about how important music is to the LBSA community. Read More

Anabelle Xiong

meet: Anabelle

January 2022

St. Olaf senior, Anabelle Xiong, is the most recent in a long line of students who have completed a semester-long internship here. Read More

Lynn

meet: Lynn

June 2021

Lynn appears more peaceful and content than ever. She is in a place she loves – her home with her housemates.” Read More

Amairani & Joseph

meet: Amairani &
Joseph

June 2021

Even though Amairani and Joseph are new to their roles and the work is often challenging and complex, they both agree that the work is rewarding. Read More

Holly Ciffra

meet: Holly

June 2021

Holly Ciffra, LBSA’s In-Home Services Director says, “You only get one life, so why not enjoy it?” Easier said than done during a global pandemic. Read More

Meet Abby

meet: Abby

March 2021

“I’m hesitant to call it volunteering.” For Abby Grismer, volunteer work is not work. It is something she loves to do. Read More

Steve Brockton headshot

meet: Steve

December 2020

Steve Brockton grew up in Northfield and first became familiar with LBSA as a child. His Aunt Margaret worked here, and he would often accompany her to LBSA events. Read More

Meet Olive

meet: Olive

July 2020

“I have always wanted to do something that can change someone’s life.” Olive shared in her scholarship application. “That’s why working in the medical field has always been my dream.” Read More

meet Sarah

meet: Sarah

June 2020

Sarah is full of surprises. She’s an example of someone who isn’t defined by the label she’s been given. Read More

meet dennis

meet: Dennis

June 2020

Dennis has routines at his cottage on Oak Street. His housemates and support staff are part of his family. Read More

meet-patricia-and-marco

meet: Patricia & Marco

October 2019

For Patricia, retirement from 26 years of teaching spawned a new career of volunteerism. And a new furry “coworker." Read More

meet-kerste

meet: Kerste

October 2019

Kerste’s nickname is “Boo," dating back to elementary school, and is still an accurate reflection of her jokester personality. Read More

meet-autumn

meet: Autumn

March 2019

Autumn's mom says the most amazing thing about her daughter is her compassion for others. It shines through in her smile. Read More

meet-the-odettes

meet: The Odettes

November 2018

19 years and counting. That’s how long we've held our Community Thanksgiving Dinner. It's also how long the Odettes have volunteered at it. Read More

meet-julie

meet: Julie

August 2018

Beneath Julie’s soft-spoken demeanor lies a passionate advocate. It would be impossible to calculate the value of her work. Read More