What started as a tribute to our team for Employee Appreciation Day quickly became something more. When asked what they love most about working at Ebenezer, our team members overwhelmingly said, “The Residents!” It became clear—the true heart of Ebenezer is not just our team but the people we serve.
Beyond their deep appreciation for seniors, our team members also highlighted the Ebenezer Cornerstones—Lifelong Learning, Crafted Culinary, Dimensions Program, Person-Centered Care, Faith Foundations, and Intergenerational Connections—as programs that not only shape their work but also make a real difference in the lives of residents every day.
Today, we honor the people behind these Cornerstones who bring passion and purpose to their roles. Many were inspired by personal experiences, such as caring for grandparents or discovering a love for service early on. They are drawn to Ebenezer not only for its mission but also for the support and camaraderie of their teams.
These are the faces behind our Cornerstones, and we are honored to share their stories.
“I started as a Life Enrichment Assistant, and I fell in love with it,” Amanda says. “I loved seeing residents light up when they learned something new or found a new creative outlet. I knew this was where I was meant to be.”
Amanda has seen firsthand how lifelong learning changes lives. One resident shared that she had always wanted to paint but never had the opportunity—until Amanda introduced an art class.
“Now she paints all the time. She makes cards, she decorates her home with her own artwork—it’s incredible to see her confidence grow.”
Amanda encourages residents to embrace creativity, even if they have never considered themselves artists.
“Learning never stops, no matter your age,” says Tanner Ellefson, Life Enrichment Director at Amira Choice Minnetonka. “We bring in speakers, show films, and discuss current events—it keeps them engaged in the world.”
Tanner's passion for working with seniors is shaped by his strong relationship with his grandparents. His love for older adults and appreciation for their experiences motivated him to pursue a career where he could make a meaningful difference in their lives. “There’s so much to learn from seniors,” Tanner shares.
For Jeremy Switzer, Culinary Director at Pillars of Prospect Park, food is about more than nourishment—it’s an experience that fosters community and connection.
“I started cooking when I was 17 and worked my way up from a dishwasher to executive chef,” Jeremy says. “Ebenezer gave me the opportunity to run a kitchen where quality and creativity matter.”
His favorite part of the job? His team (and, of course, the residents). “I was able to build my own team here, and I love working with them. Everyone has a passion for what they do,” he explains. “We take pride in making meals that residents truly enjoy—food that feels like home.”
Switzer notes, “Residents at The Pillars of Prospect Park are unique. They have traveled the world, so we create food that reflects their different tastes—curries, African dishes, and spicy foods. They love it, and it’s a joy to cook for them,” Jeremy says.
His kitchen isn’t just about sustenance—it’s about storytelling, culture, and bringing people together. As part of this commitment, The Pillars of Prospect Park engages in The Peace Project, a monthly dinner celebrating different cultures through food and activities. “It’s our busiest day of the month,” notes Jeremy.
“Memory care at Ebenezer is different,” said Marcelena Zerwes, Dimensions Manager at TowerLight Senior Living. “The Dimensions Program isn’t about facilities—it’s about community. She believes this distinction is crucial.
Marcelena was drawn to Ebenezer because of the organization’s nonprofit mission and commitment to person-centered memory care. “We create a feeling of home, a warm, engaging environment where residents feel safe and valued. She credits Ebenezer’s training, team collaboration, and consistency for setting the program apart.
“But the real difference is the personal touch,” Marcelena says. “The ‘My Way’ forms that families fill out help us see residents as they were—what they loved, what made them feel safe. It allows us to meet them where they are now, with understanding and respect.”
Caring for seniors is deeply personal for Anna Ellefson, Dimensions Manager at Amira Choice Minnetonka. Her journey into senior care was inspired by the time she spent caring for her grandfather. This experience gave her a firsthand understanding of the challenges families face when supporting a loved one with dementia. That connection led her to Ebenezer, where she now helps residents find joy and engagement through the Dimensions Program.
At The Sycamore of River Falls, Moriah Nei credits Ebenezer’s Dimensions team for making all the difference. “As a Dimensions Manager, I have access to an entire network of professionals who share ideas and solutions,” she says. “We’re never alone—we have a team behind us.”
Moriah has always enjoyed being around seniors, drawn to their wisdom, stories, and unique perspectives on life. She values the connections she builds with residents and the opportunity to make their days brighter. “There’s something so special about working with seniors,” she shares. “They have lived through so much; every day, I learn from them and share in their experiences. Even the smallest moments—a smile, a laugh, or just sitting and listening—make this work incredibly meaningful.” She understands the challenges that come with aging and memory loss, and she wanted to be part of a support system that helps seniors and their families through this journey.
Ebenezer’s Person-Centered Care is a cornerstone that ensures every resident receives support tailored to their unique needs. Annie McCusker, RN, Director of Health Services at The Pillars of Lakeville, plays a key role in upholding this commitment, making a meaningful difference in the lives of seniors.
Annie believes that care should never be one-size-fits-all. “We’re not cookie cutters, and we can’t assume anything based on age, gender, or diagnosis. We have to dig into what each resident likes, dislikes, and truly needs,” she explains. Whether it’s adjusting morning routines or personalizing medical treatment, she ensures that residents are supported in a way that respects their individuality.
At The Pillars of Hermantown, Alyssa Pangburn, CNA, sees person-centered care as deeply personal.
“I don’t just provide care—I build relationships,” Alyssa says. “I learn about their families, their pets, their favorite things. It’s about making them feel valued.”
For Julissa Canela Shouts, Resident Assistant at Hermantown, one of the most powerful moments in her day is the simplest.
“When I walk into a resident’s room and smile, their whole mood shifts. Even if I’m having a hard day, I know they’ll reflect the energy I bring. So, I always try to bring warmth and kindness.”
For Chris Beckman, Corporate Director of Spiritual Care, Faith Foundations are more than a cornerstone—they’re a calling.
“None of us are doing this work to get rich,” Chris says. “But what I know to the core is that I’m valued here. No one ever asks, ‘Why do we need chaplains?’ because spiritual care is essential to who we are.”
At Ebenezer, spiritual care isn’t just for those who attend worship services—it’s about providing comfort, dignity, and meaning in every stage of life.
Spiritual care is integral to Ebenezer’s mission, and Sherry Mortenson, Multi-Site Chaplain, sees it as an honor to serve.
“One of the most powerful moments I witness is in memory care, when I ask, ‘Who does God love?’ and the residents answer, ‘Me,’” Sherry shares. “It’s the privilege of my life to remind them that they are loved, valued, and not forgotten.”
Chris feels that Ebenezer’s commitment to faith-based care is what makes it unique. “At Ebenezer, no one questions the value of chaplains. Spiritual care is at the heart of what we do,” Chris says.
One of Ebenezer’s most unique and heartwarming Cornerstones is Intergenerational Connections. At TowerLight and Riley Crossing, Michelle Jirik, Director of Child Care, sees the magic of these programs daily.
“We’ve found that young children—who naturally tend to focus on themselves—develop empathy so much earlier when they interact with seniors,” Michelle says. “They start helping their ‘grandfriends’ with crafts, picking up things they drop, and forming real relationships. It’s beautiful to see.”
The presence of children in the community brings seniors a renewed sense of purpose, creating a vibrant, multi-generational atmosphere where learning, laughter, and love are shared between the youngest and oldest members of our communities.
Ebenezer employees don’t just work in senior living—they live their mission. Each Cornerstone—Lifelong Learning, Crafted Culinary, Dimensions, Person-Centered Care, Faith Foundations, and Intergenerational Connections—isn’t just a program but a philosophy that shapes how we serve residents.
To everyone who works at Ebenezer, we sincerely appreciate the passion, heart, and dedication you bring to work every day. At Ebenezer, we don’t just provide care—we build relationships, create experiences, and make every day meaningful. Thank you for all you do!