Allie’s Story

Peace of Mind, Redefined

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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“A dream is your creative vision for your life in the future.”

Because of donors like you, Hope Haven can support children and adults with disabilities through a variety of community living services. These services help individuals learn basic living skills, engage with others, and fulfill a productive life in their community. Because of you, people reach their potential.

Meet Allie McGruder from Spencer, IA

Allie has been receiving services from Hope Haven for seven years under the support of community living services. In the summer of 2022, Hope Haven purchased a new house in Spencer to meet the needs of four women. The house needed some remodeling, including new flooring, painting, and the addition of two bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a laundry room in the basement. After all the construction, the house turned into Allie’s “dream home”.

While Hope Haven provides daily support services, Allie and her housemates handle the maintenance, cleaning, cooking, and other tasks they embrace. “I love my dream home! A bigger kitchen for me to cook, a bigger bedroom for my desk, and a bathroom to share with only one person.” But not only is the home great, the neighbors are wonderful. “I enjoy going out for walks and visiting my neighbors, John and Bev.”

In addition, Allie participates in our My Day program five days a week and enjoys her time playing games, cooking, and hanging with her friends! “Allie has really grown in the past 7 years,” says Amanda Morony, Community Living Manager. She has learned to take care of herself in many ways and advocate for herself in a positive manner.” Her dream for the future is looking for a job by participating in Hope Haven’s Pathway to Employment Track program.

Through the generosity of our donors like you, Hope Haven’s services focus on each individual’s vision, “encouraging of dreams, desires, and aspirations; valuing gifts, talents, and contributions”. With your support, our vision statement becomes a reality, and comes to life through people we support – like Allie!

If you wish to contribute please click here  https://www.hopehaven.org/give  to donate today. 

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