For more than 30 years, Irene Wemer has been a steady, loving presence in the lives of countless children and families. As Education Director and a guiding spirit at The Hastings Co-Op, she created far more than a place to learn—she built a community where children felt safe, seen, and inspired to grow.

Generations of families can trace their earliest memories of friendship, curiosity, and confidence back to Irene’s classroom. Her patience, warmth, and deep understanding of children and early childhood development shaped not only young minds, but entire families. She gave her time, her energy, and her whole heart to this work—quietly, consistently, and without ever asking for recognition.

Now, as Irene steps into a new chapter of her life, she faces a difficult transition. After decades devoted to others, she finds herself in need of support. We trusted the Co-Op to take care of our beloved teachers as well as they took care of our children. But the hard truth is that the Co-Op never set up a pension for Irene, or even a contractual parting lump sum to help ease her transition. We hope to fill that gap.

This fundraiser is an opportunity for all of us—parents, former students, friends, and community members—to give something back to someone who has given so much. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help Irene move forward with dignity and security, and will serve as a small reflection of the enormous impact she has had on so many lives. Families are the true heart and soul of the Co-Op, so now it's on us to put that help in place.

If Irene has ever touched your life, or if you believe in honoring those who dedicate themselves to nurturing others, please consider donating or sharing this message.

Let’s come together for Irene, just as she has always been there for all of us.

Some words about Irene's career from the Hastings Co Op website:

Irene Balint-Wemer joined Hastings Nursery School in 1995. She has a dual NYS certification in Early Childhood and Children with Special Needs. Irene is also an Early Childhood Therapist and Special Education Itinerant Teacher (SEIT) for children with Special Needs. She has dedicated the past 30 years to the education of young children, starting at the Alcott Montessori school and now at the Co-op where she is the Education Director. Irene is a passionate individual who feels blessed and privileged to be a part of the Co-op family. She celebrates each child's uniqueness while forming a community of respect and acceptance, and believes that the Co-op is a piece of heaven on earth.