A Day Habilitation Journey

By 7017444915 March 26, 2026
There is a certain kind of peace that comes when you know someone you love is safe. One mother, Jeanelle Stokes, shared that before Smart Living, there was always a quiet tension. Even when things were going well, that lingering question remained: What if something happens when no one is right there? At Hope Haven, we believe safety and independence should not compete with one another. They should work together. That belief is what led to the development of Smart Living. Smart Living blends personalized technology, remote support, and in-person care to help individuals live more independently while maintaining a dependable safety net. From our Remote Support Center in Spirit Lake, trained professionals are available 24 hours a day, ready to respond when assistance is needed. Jeanelle put it simply: “I don’t feel like I have to hover anymore. I know someone is there if he needs help.” Homes are equipped with thoughtfully selected tools such as motion sensors, wearable devices, secure video connections, and interactive reminders, all tailored to the member’s individual needs. These tools aren’t designed to replace care, but to enhance it. For Jeanelle’s son Jerrod, constant staff presence was increasing his anxiety. When part of his support transitioned to remote monitoring, there was a noticeable change. Within days, he began reaching out just to say, “Hi, I’m okay.” With that change, he had more space while still knowing support was just a call away. As Scripture reminds us, “The Lord himself watches over you.” - Psalm 121:5 Smart Living reflects that same premise of watchful care, encouraging independence while still keeping support within reach. As this initiative expands, more individuals will have the opportunity to live confidently in their own homes, and more families will experience the peace that comes from knowing help is always near. Your generosity makes that growth possible. It allows us to expand Smart Living into more homes, strengthen our Remote Support Center, and ensure that independence is never separated from safety. If you wish to contribute, please CLICK HERE to donate today. Thank you for your continued support, prayers, and partnership in Hope Haven’s mission.
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James has always known he wanted to work in the community. He enjoys being around others and knew that in a job with the right fit  he could be a great employee. His supervisors at Day Hab encouraged him in this pursuit telling him that if he worked hard and followed his programs he could secure a job in the community. 

James remained focused on his goal and six weeks ago began working half days at the Cenex in Rock Valley Iowa.  James’ tasks include taking out the garbage cleaning and sweeping and putting wiper fluid in windshield wipers. “We’re very proud of James ” says Carla Day Hab Manager. “He wanted a community job so he worked hard and got one.” 

The Day Hab activities were important steps in getting him to where he wanted to be. Day Hab focuses on enabling each member to attain his or her maximum potential recognizing that every person has a gift ability or skill to share. The focus is on fostering social inclusion and community engagement through positive community contributions and relationship development. Members explore and engage in meaningful and purposeful activities based on individual preferences.   

James’ desire and dedication combined with his focused Day Hab training provided winning results. And through his connections at work and Day Hab he has met many people and developed lasting friendships. Observes Carla “When we’re out in the community people just sort of gravitate to him and that’s so great to see.” 

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