We are excited to announce that Normandale House will now provide monthly updates as we move through an important season of change. While we transition from our current property on Chicago Avenue, we remain committed to our ministry and mission to provide stable housing for families in need.
2025 Plans and Beyond
We have good news to share that the opportunity to sell our current property to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church has opened the door for us to find a new location that will allow us to expand our capacity to house up to six families. Our goal is to find a property in 2025 that is:
- In a safe neighborhood
- Within 15 minutes driving time from Normandale Lutheran Church to ensure safe accessibility for volunteers
Our board has actively explored over 20 properties with the help of a broker and personal networks. While we have yet to find the right fit, the search continues. If you are aware of a property that may meet our needs, please reach out to Jeff Huggett. We believe new pathways often emerge through unexpected connections, and your insights may be invaluable.
Life at Normandale House
Our home is currently full, with three families and nine children, ages 2 to 16. In January, these families, our volunteer care team members, and staff gathered for a meal, played games, and shared connections as we listened to and discussed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech. It was a joyful day filled with laughter, reflection, and new friendships.
Looking ahead, our first Family Support Team meeting will be held on Saturday, April 26, from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church on Chicago Avenue. During this time, parents will meet with their care teams to discuss goals and challenges, while Normandale Lutheran Church youth volunteers will engage the children with games, crafts, and story time. We will gather as a community afterward to share a taco bar lunch. If you or a youth you know would like to volunteer, please contact Pam Werley at pwerley@normandalehouse.org or 612-416-4728.
Easter Basket Tradition
The Women’s Bible Study Small Group, led by Becky Odland, is continuing its 12-year tradition of delivering Easter baskets to our families. Each basket will include candy, an age-appropriate book, and a thoughtful gift item. In addition, each family will receive food supplies and a gift card to enjoy a large family meal together. If you would like to contribute, here is the link to make an online donation.
Other ways to help
Today, we share an update from Jeff Huggett, Board Director President and acting Executive Director. Here’s what you can expect to learn and how you can be part of shaping our future:
- Volunteer: We need both youth and adult volunteers to help at our Family Support Team meetings and community events every six weeks.
- Join Our Board: We are seeking 4-5 new board members to help shape the future of Normandale House, including finding a new property and establishing sustainable operations and programming. If you’re interested in joining the board, please contact Pam Werley or Jeff Huggett.
- Donate: Thank you to those who have generously given in recent months. Your financial support funds our community events and helps families maintain educational stability by keeping children in their current schools. To make a donation, please visit our website.
This is a critical time for Normandale House, and we are deeply grateful for your continued partnership. Together, we can create a future where every family has a safe and stable home.
With gratitude,
Pam Werley
Volunteer Coordinator and Communications, Normandale House
