2023 Minnesota Real Journal Awards

Ecumen Selected as Finalist for Minnesota Real Estate Journal Awards

Ecumen Selected as Finalist for Minnesota Real Estate Journal Awards

By CorrineMcCallum | March 9, 2023

The Hillock — Lobby
The Hillock — Community Club Room
The Hillock — Apartment view 2

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (March 9, 2023) — The Hillock, an Ecumen living space consisting of 100 affordable senior housing apartments, has been selected as a finalist for the 2023 Minnesota Real Journal Awards in the “Affordable Housing – Urban” category. These awards showcase the top real estate developments and achievements in Minnesota over the past year.

The Hillock began welcoming tenants at the end of 2022 and is conveniently located in Minneapolis’ Longfellow neighborhood.

“More than just a place to call home, The Hillock is a community of its own within the vibrant Longfellow community,” said Ecumen Senior Director of Business Development, Anne Stanfield. “We are committed to bringing high-quality affordable housing for even more older adults, and we’re delighted that The Hillock has been such a success already.”

Click here to read more about the awards.

To learn more about The Hillock — Affordable Housing for Seniors 55+, click here.


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About Ecumen

Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.


Hennepin Healthcare | Ecumen

HENNEPIN HEALTHCARE ANNOUNCES TRANSFER OF HOSPICE SERVICES TO ECUMEN HOSPICE

Hennepin Healthcare Announces Transfer of Hospice Services to Ecumen Hospice

Written by: Angie Andresen | March 8, 2023

Hennepin Healthcare | Ecumen

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (March 8, 2023) — Hennepin Healthcare and Ecumen are pleased to announce the transfer of Hennepin Healthcare’s at home hospice services to Ecumen Hospice in a collaboration that supports access to comprehensive hospice services for Hennepin Healthcare patients.

“As we focus on our acute care hospital and clinic system, our priority was to find a hospice organization with a shared mission to the patients we serve,” said Jennifer DeCubellis, Hennepin Healthcare CEO. “This collaboration maintains access for our patients to the full array of end-of-life services and support, so they get the care and comfort they deserve at this critical phase in their journey.”

“This collaboration between our two organizations expands access to our outstanding and comprehensive hospice care for Hennepin Healthcare patients,” said Shelley Kendrick, Ecumen president and CEO. “Additionally, it furthers our mission with a goal of making this compassionate, patient-centered end-of-life care available to everyone who needs it, in their home or wherever they’re living – regardless of their ability to pay.”

Maintaining options for long-term care and hospice are important parts of the healthcare ecosystem. Hennepin Healthcare and Ecumen are committed to realizing solutions to the current compression and congestion in hospitals that is resulting in longer lengths of stay and limited access for patients who need higher levels of care.


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About Ecumen

Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.


Floyd Skinner 106 years old birthday

Retirement Home Helps Minnesota Man Celebrate 106th Birthday

Retirement Home Helps Minnesota Man Celebrate 106th Birthday

CBS News | Written by: Allen Henry | March 7, 2023

Floyd Skinner 106 years old birthday
Born in 1917, Floyd Skinner turned 106 years old. At his Ecumen Seasons at Apple Valley senior residence, a big birthday party was held in Skinner's honor.

APPLE VALLEY, MN (March 7, 2023) — Born in 1917, Floyd Skinner has lived through two world wars, two pandemics and now, 106 birthdays.

“Oh, that’s pretty wonderful, alright. But I can’t hardly handle it,” Floyd said.

Floyd was born near the Iowa border in Walters, Minnesota, doing his duty on the family farm before serving his country and traveling the world.

“I milked my cows, same as every farmer,” Floyd said.

“Gas was 14 cents a gallon when he was born, which is absurd in itself, yet he’s a veteran and he’s served in World War II,” said Mary Walters, executive director at Ecumen Seasons in Apple Valley.

Tuesday, his retirement home held a “Floyd Fest” to celebrate his life.

“Wearing yellow as his favorite color. We have these buttons on to honor him and all the residents and team members got one. And then we’re serving cake, having an accordion player,” Walters  said.

Also carefully hidden around the home were 106 pictures of Floyd to honor his love of photography, and to spread a little more of what they call “the joy of Floyd.”

“I have never seen a 106 year old, and someone so healthy and vibrant, too,” Walters said. “He has such a positive outlook on life and he’s very inspirational. So, we’re happy to celebrate that.” 

Despite the mileage he’s put in during his lifetime, when it comes to the secret to a long, healthy life, Floyd was a man of few words.

“I always tell ’em, ‘keep breathing,’ and that shuts them up,” Floyd said.

Floyd also received a certificate from the mayor of Apple Valley to honor and celebrate his birthday.

Click here to view the whole story.


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About Ecumen

Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.


Ecumen Lakeshore Team Member Receives a Special Thank You

Ecumen Lakeshore Team Member Receives a Special Thank You

By CorrineMcCallum | February 21, 2023

Dean and his wife LaDonna
Dean with his wife, LaDonna
Dean with Occupational Therapist Hannah
Dean with Hanna, his Occupational Therapist while at Ecumen Lakeshore

DULUTH, MN (February 21, 2023) — Gratitude goes a long way. You could say it goes as far as a 2.5-hour long road trip from Pequot Lakes, MN, to Duluth, MN, in a snowstorm.

Dean, a newly retired resident of Pequot Lakes, was looking forward to all that life had to offer as he and his wife, LaDonna, were enjoying retirement up north, exploring the town and enjoying all the lakes in the area. Because Dean is immunocompromised, he made sure he took all possible COVID precautions, including vaccinations and boosters. Unfortunately, the virus found a way into Dean’s life and forever changed it.

After beating COVID-19, Dean found that he was still struggling with his breathing, and at the end of February 2022, he had developed a very bad cough which turned into a case of pneumonia. From there, his physical and mental health declined. He found himself struggling with panic attacks, shortness of breath and a debilitating cough. After being admitted to hospital after hospital, and multiple bronchoscopies later, the family was still struggling to find an exact answer as to what was going on.

The day of discharge from a Duluth hospital, Dean tested positive for COVID-19 again. He was sent home to recover. Once back in Pequot Lakes, Dean was still having panic attacks and low oxygen levels. Dean and LaDonna needed answers. Dean was finally airlifted to Mayo Clinic in Rochester as he was declining rapidly.

Upon arrival, it was determined that the virus had settled deep within his lungs, causing many issues, and requiring him to be in isolation for almost two months. LaDonna was told to head back home to Pequot Lakes as she couldn’t see Dean in person. Dean found himself lonely and depressed. “Nurses would come into my room to check on me, but there was no conversing, no human-touch, nothing,” Dean said. “That is what I missed the most.”

After a long and challenging 80 days in and out of hospitals, Dean and LaDonna began looking at transitional care units (TCU) but found that many wouldn’t take him due to the level of care he needed.

It was at that time that Dean and LaDonna were introduced to Ecumen Lakeshore — The Fountains Transitional Care. Without hesitation, Ecumen Lakeshore admitted him on a Friday afternoon.

“We drove into the parking lot and there were three nurses aides waiting for us, ready to help,” said LaDonna. “They were fantastic from day one.”

Dean still had a long road to recovery, but the care he received at Ecumen Lakeshore helped him recover quicker than he thought. “I saw smiling faces and heard words of encouragement from the moment I entered Ecumen,” he said. “That is what you need when you’re healing.” 

Throughout his physical and occupational therapy, Dean immediately connected with Hannah, an Ecumen Occupational Therapist.  “Hannah and Dean just clicked right away,” LaDonna said. “She was the answer to our prayers.”  Hannah was the highlight of Dean’s day.  He couldn’t wait to see her!

Because the long hospitalizations and recovery process had taken a toll on Dean’s mental health, Hannah took the time to determine the best ways to support Dean through his anxiety. “If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Dean said. “She’s an angel, no question about it.”

Once he was discharged, Dean knew he needed to see Hannah again and thank her for saving his life. “I wanted to show her how far I have come since my stay at Lakeshore,” Dean said.

So, Dean and LaDonna made the 2.5 hour trek to Duluth from their home in Pequot Lakes to surprise Hannah during her lunch break. When Hannah realized it was Dean, she cried and hugged him for two minutes straight.

Dean is now back home, building a woodshop, shoveling snow and finally enjoying retired life up north with LaDonna.

“Don’t give up. There are people that care. You never know when you’ll meet your angel,” Dean said. Dean met his at Ecumen Lakeshore.


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About Ecumen

Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.


group of Ecumen team members writing Holiday cards to Ecumen residents

Commitment to Connection Creates Ecumen’s “Operation Holiday Cheer”

Commitment to Connection Creates Ecumen’s “Operation Holiday Cheer”

By CorrineMcCallum | December 16, 2022

group of Ecumen team members
group of Ecumen team members writing Holiday cards to Ecumen residents
little girl coloring a Holiday card for Ecumen residents
Children colored Holiday cards for Ecumen residents

SHOREVIEW, MN (December 16, 2022) — Keeping people safe and connected has long been a goal at Ecumen

Two years ago – when COVID prevented in-person visits – connections with others took on even more importance. It was at that time that a group of Ecumen team members spearheaded a project to ensure that every single person who lived in an Ecumen community received a bit of holiday cheer in the form of a personal card from an Ecumen team member. It was then that Ecumen’s “Operation Holiday Cheer” was born.

“We decided to do this project because we realized how important it was to stay connected to our mission of serving our older adults – including many who may not have family or friends visiting,” said Mel Sullivan, Ecumen’s Chief People Officer. “It’s a testament to how deeply all of our team members – no matter their role – care about those we serve.”

Team members from every department participated. Some team members created handmade cards, while others included their kids or grandchildren in the card making. Ecumen’s Finance Team got together for “Cards and Cupcakes” and wrote out 200 of the 2,400 total cards distributed to residents.

“This was a great opportunity for our team to meet in person and spread cheer to Ecumen residents,” said Susie Schuh, Director of Financial Planning and Analysis. “We know that these cards mean so much to the residents and it’s also an opportunity for us to thank them for choosing Ecumen.”


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About Ecumen

Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.


U.S. News & World Report: Best Nursing Homes — Short-term Rehabilitation 2021-2022

Ecumen Lakeshore The Fountains Receives Top Rating from U.S. News & World Report

Ecumen Lakeshore The Fountains Receives Top Rating from U.S. News & World Report

By CorrineMcCallum | November 23, 2022

Care team at Ecumen Lakeshore, November 2022
U.S. News & World Report: Best Nursing Homes — Short-term Rehabilitation 2021-2022

DULUTH, MN (November 23, 2022) — Ecumen Lakeshore in Duluth, Minn., has received a “Best Nursing Home Short-Term Rehabilitation” rating for The Fountains, its short-term rehabilitation center by U.S. News & World Report magazine. The magazine evaluated more than 15,000 facilities throughout the country, rating most of them in the areas of short-term rehabilitation and long-term care. Ecumen Lakeshore received a “high performance” rating — the highest designation possible — in short-term rehabilitation.

“We are honored to be named by the U.S. News & World Report as one of the best nursing homes in short-term rehabilitation in Minnesota. This achievement is a direct reflection of our amazing team members who provide excellent care for those who choose Lakeshore. Our team members are the true recipients of this honor,” said Blaine Gamst, Executive Director of Ecumen Lakeshore. “Whether it’s for our outstanding short-term rehab, skilled nursing, our assisted living or independent living apartments, we are grateful to our Duluth community for trusting us for the past 92 years,” Gamst said.

U.S. News compiles its rating information in a national Nursing Home Finder that offers comprehensive information about care, safety, health inspections, staffing and more for almost all nursing homes in the country. This tool provides customized searches for nursing homes by location, Medicare and Medicaid coverage, Alzheimer’s care and size. The Nursing Home Finder reflects U.S. News’ analysis of data collected and published by the federal government using a methodology defined by U.S. News.

Since their inception in 2009, the U.S. News Best Nursing Home ratings have relied on data from Nursing Home Compare, a program run by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the federal agency that sets and enforces standards for nursing homes.

Ecumen Lakeshore — The Fountains short-term rehabilitation center, is located at 4002 London Rd., Duluth, MN. In addition to providing skilled nursing care, Ecumen Lakeshore offers short-term rehabilitation, memory care, independent and assisted living apartments, as well as home care and hospice.

For more information call (218) 625-7100 or visit ecumenlakeshore.org.


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About Ecumen

Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.


U.S. News & World Report: Best Nursing Homes — Short-term Rehabilitation 2021-2022

Ecumen Pathstone Care Center Receives Top Rating from U.S. News & World Report

Ecumen Pathstone Care Center Receives Top Rating from U.S. News & World Report

By CorrineMcCallum | November 17, 2022

U.S. News & World Report: Best Nursing Homes — Short-term Rehabilitation 2021-2022

MANKATO, MN (November 17, 2022) — Ecumen Pathstone in Mankato, Minn., has received a Best Nursing Home Short-Term Rehabilitation rating for its short-term rehabilitation center by U.S. News & World Report magazine. The magazine evaluated more than 15,000 facilities throughout the country, rating most of them in the areas of short-term rehabilitation and long-term care. Ecumen Pathstone received a “high performance” rating — the highest designation possible — in short-term rehabilitation.

“We are honored to be once again named by the U.S. News & World Report as one of the best nursing homes in short-term rehabilitation in Minnesota. This achievement is a direct reflection of our amazing team members who provide excellent care to our patients. Our team members are the true recipients of this honor,” said Rachael Evers, Executive Director of Ecumen Pathstone. “Whether it’s for our outstanding short-term rehab, skilled nursing, our assisted living or new independent living apartments, we are grateful to our Mankato community for trusting us for the past 85 years,” Evers said.

U.S. News compiles its rating information in a national Nursing Home Finder that offers comprehensive information about care, safety, health inspections, staffing and more for almost all nursing homes in the country. This tool provides customized searches for nursing homes by location, Medicare and Medicaid coverage, Alzheimer’s care and size. The Nursing Home Finder reflects U.S. News’ analysis of data collected and published by the federal government using a methodology defined by U.S. News.

Since their inception in 2009, the U.S. News Best Nursing Home ratings have relied on data from Nursing Home Compare, a program run by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the federal agency that sets and enforces standards for nursing homes.

Ecumen Pathstone’s Care Center, located at 718 Mound Ave, is celebrating its 85th year of service in Mankato. In addition to providing skilled nursing care, Ecumen Pathstone offers short-term rehabilitation, memory care, assisted living apartments, new independent living community – Latitude – as well as home care, hospice, and adult day services.

For more information call (507) 345-4576 or visit ecumenpathstone.org.


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About Ecumen

Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.


Mpls. St. Paul Magazine's Top Senior Living Communities + Care 2022 List

Three Ecumen Communities Land 2022 Top Senior Living Community Award by the Mpls. St Paul Magazine

Three Ecumen Communities Land 2022 Top Senior Living Community Award by the Mpls. St Paul Magazine

By CorrineMcCallum | November 17, 2022

Mpls. St. Paul Magazine's Top Senior Living Communities + Care 2022 List

SHOREVIEW, MN (November 17, 2022) — We are proud to announce that three Ecumen assisted living communities and one skilled nursing community have been named 2022 Top Living communities by the Mpls. St. Paul Magazine.

Congratulations to Abiitan Mill City, Ecumen North Branch and Ecumen Seasons at Apple Valley for being top assisted living communities. Ecumen North Branch was also awarded as a top skilled nursing community. Check out the November issue on newsstands now to learn more about their Top Senior Living awards.


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About Ecumen

Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.


Quartet Senior Living in Bettendorf, IA — an Ecumen managed living space

Quartet Senior Living Community to Host Grand Opening Celebration on November 10th, 2022

Quartet Senior Living Community to Host Grand Opening Celebration on November 10th, 2022.

By CorrineMcCallum | November 2, 2022

Bettendorf, Iowa, November 2, 2022 — Quartet Senior Living  is inviting the public to its grand opening celebration on Thursday, November 10th beginning at 3 p.m., with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Open house, tours, refreshments and entertainment will continue until 7 p.m.

“Quartet Senior Living is such an amazing addition to the Bettendorf community and our team is so excited to show the greater community everything we have to offer,” said Kara Wolf, executive director of Quartet Senior Living, which welcomed its first residents in August. “From fantastic care services to the delicious food and unique amenities, Quartet is designed to meet the changing needs of Bettendorf’s older adults.”

The Bettendorf community is invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony beginning at 3 p.m. with a grand opening celebration following until 7 p.m. Quartet Senior Living is located at 3150 Glenbrook Circle South.  Event details can be found at quartetseniorliving.com/events.

Offering Carefree Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care, Quartet has everything older adults need and want to live life their way. The availability of 24-hour support, beautiful surroundings, lifestyles rich in vitality, and the services and amenities make every day easy, fulfilling and fun. Quartet Senior Living is a partnership between Ecumen, a nonprofit organization with 160 years of experience and more than 40 senior living communities throughout the Midwest, and Nelson Construction and Development, a real estate development and general construction company based in Des Moines.

sunny courtyard with pergola and raised flower beds at Quartet Senior Living
Quartet Senior Living in Bettendorf, IA — an Ecumen managed living space

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About Ecumen

Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.


Tami Haley

Tami Haley Selected to the ANAI by the Minnesota Organization of Registered Nurses

Tami Haley Selected to the ANAI by the Minnesota Organization of Registered Nurses

By CorrineMcCallum | October 20, 2022

Tami Haley

SHOREVIEW, MN (October 20, 2022) — Tami Haley, Vice President of Clinical Excellence & Care Transformation at Ecumen has been selected to be a fellow of the American Nurses Advocacy Institute (ANAI) beginning in October 2022. This ANAI is an annual program that is designed to help nurses gain political competence, and to advocate for nurses and those they serve. Haley is one of 24 who were selected to participate in the Institute this year.

Haley has an extensive background in the nursing profession and more than 15 years of experience in senior care. Haley is a public health nurse and member of the Minnesota Organization of Registered Nurses (MNORN) and the American Nurses Association. She is particularly interested in how we can work together to find solutions for our workforce challenges and adequately prepare the next generation of skilled professionals.


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About Ecumen

Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.