Be Patient…and Have Fun!

By 7017444915 February 24, 2026
Home looks different for everyone. For Jon, home is now the place he shares with his sister, Shelly. Jon was already living in Shelly’s home when she became one of Hope Haven’s first Host Home providers. What started as a practical next step quickly grew into something far more meaningfu l. As Shelly shared, “Opening our home to Jon was a blessing we didn’t know we needed.” Through Hope Haven’s Host Home program, individuals with disabilities live in the homes of carefully selected providers who offer guidance, companionship, and everyday support. Host Homes are just one of several residential options at Hope Haven, alongside staffed community living homes, because no two individuals require the same level or style of care. What matters most is creating a place where people can live safely, grow their independence, and feel truly included. For Jon, that environment means being part of everyday family life, whether that’s grocery shopping and shared meals or being able to help with Shelly’s in-home daycare. “Living here makes me feel happy,” Jon says. For Shelly’s family, the experience has been transformative. “We’ve all become more patient and understanding,” she shares. “My boys have learned gratitude, acceptance, and what it means to truly welcome someone into your life.” That mutual impact is what makes Host Homes unique. “It doesn’t feel like a job,” Shelly explains. “It’s more of a relationship. You get to help someone feel independent, yet safe.” She was quick to add that the impact goes both ways. As she puts it, “You just might meet your best friend.” Because of supporters like you, individuals like Jon have the opportunity to live in a home where they are supported and valued — not just as clients, but as people. Your generosity makes it possible for Hope Haven to offer a range of residential supports, creating safe, stable, relationship-centered living options for individuals with disabilities right here in our communities. “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” — Romans 12:10 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.
Show More
A group of people are playing instruments on a stage in front of a crowd.
By Hope Haven October 24, 2025
February 13, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
A large group of people are sitting at long tables in a large room.
By nicole.andree October 6, 2025
March 27, 2026
More Posts →

In this blog we share a Q&A interview with Direct Support Professional Scott Eekhoff and what he loves about his job…

Q: How did you come to be in your position? 

A: My employment with Hope Haven just kind of fell in my lap. One of the clients in a Sioux Center waiver home was an acquaintance. I always took him for breakfast on Saturday. His father who is HH board member suggested I apply at HH because he thought I interacted very well with all the clients of that house. The rest was history.

Q: What gifts do you bring to your role?

A: I’m told clients love me as a people person. I have patience. I like to make my clients day “fun”.

Q: What lessons have you learned working at Hope Haven? 

A: Every day is very different. Our clients are smarter than people expect.. way smarter! Number one.. clients always come first in care!

Q: What is your favorite part of your job? 

A: The best part of this is taking clients in the community which has been very difficult during the Covid pandemic. Also seeing them succeed in tasks is very rewarding.

Q: What is your favorite part of your workday?

A: My favorite part of the day is greeting our clients and interacting with them.

Q: What is on your personal bucket list?

A: See the NCAA Final Four.. Take an Amtrak Trip across the country.. Do a mission trip to Guatemala.

My advice for a new staff: Be patient.. don’t be afraid to make mistakes and learn.. Have Fun!!!

The post Be Patient…and Have Fun! appeared first on Hope Haven.