Empower! Lunch
You’re Invited
We’re excited to announce that Merrick’s Empower! Lunch will take place on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at Vadnais Heights Commons.
Featuring Marney Gellner, the beloved “Jackie of All Trades” and award-winning sports broadcaster, this free luncheon will highlight how Merrick’s employment services empower adults with disabilities to achieve their goals and contribute to our community. Guests will leave inspired to support Merrick’s mission and help expand opportunities for the individuals we serve.
RSVP
While the event is free to attend, advanced reservation is required. We kindly ask that all guests RSVP by Wednesday, November 4.
Questions
For more information, please contact Megan Kuneli at megank@merrickinc.org or 651.789.6207.
Other Ways to Make a Difference
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Become a Table Host
Being a table host is one of the most impactful ways you can influence the success of the Empower! Lunch and support our mission.
As a table host, you will be asked to identify and invite guests to sit at your table set for 8 (including yourself). Guests may include friends, co-workers, family members, neighbors, and people whose business you patronize. Moreover, any individual, couple, company, or group can be a table host.
For more information, contact Megan Kuneli at 651.789.6207 or megank@merrickinc.org
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Sponsor the Event
We have several different sponsorship levels available. A summary of sponsorship levels and their benefits is shown below. To purchase a sponsorship, please use our online form.
Levels Benefits $100 Patron program & social media recognition $250 Advocate event webpage recognition $500 Dream event sign recognition $1,000 Goal branded table $2,500 Empower personal profile in Enewsletter $3,000 Lunch signage at each table If you have questions about available sponsorship opportunities, contact Megan Kuneli at 651.789.6207 or megank@merrickinc.org.
Event Details
Tuesday, November 10, 2026
11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Vadnais Heights Commons
655 E County Rd F
Vadnais Heights, MN
Complimentary Admission
While it is free to attend, guests will be invited to make a charitable gift during the program.
Schedule
11:30 am - Check-In & Lunch
12:00-1:00 pm - Program
Kindly RSVP by November 4
Keynote Speaker: Marney Gellner
Marney Gellner has been a fixture with Minnesota pro sports teams for the last 20+ years. She is one of the most versatile sports broadcasting voices in the area – working mainly for the Timberwolves, Lynx and Twins. Marney made history in 2018 by becoming the first woman to call play-by-play for the Timberwolves, and achieved that same first for the Twins in 2024.
Marney also contributes to the Power Trip Morning Show on KFAN radio in Minneapolis. She and her husband are proud parents to two teenagers – a son and a daughter.
Speaker Sponsor: Maguire Agency
We’ve been guiding businesses and families on insurance matters since 1928. We’ve enjoyed long-term relationships with our clients because of our progressive, knowledgeable and responsive approach, and by working collaboratively with them and the many insurance companies we represent for the best possible outcomes.