Celebrating National DSP Recognition Week

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.
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To recognize the accomplishments and contributions made by direct support professionals to the lives of people with disabilities Hope Haven is supporting Direct Support Professional Recognition (DSP) Week September 12 to 18.

Hope Haven employs nearly 400 DSPs to serve individuals in Iowa and Minnesota and recently announced an increase in the DSP base wage to $15/hour ($17/hour for weekend shifts).

“On the frontline of our services and at the heart of our programs are DSPs and the leads and supervisors who support them. There is no Hope Haven without them ” said Hope Haven CEO Matt Buley. “Individual milestones independent living and community inclusion happen every day because of what they do and who they are. I am grateful and proud to work with them!”

Throughout the week we will be sharing features of real DSP employees on our website and social media platforms (Facebook & Instagram – @hopehavenorg).