Community Connections

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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As Hope Haven focuses on expanding integrated employment for people with disabilities and closing sheltered workshops we also are changing the way we deliver day habilitation. A major component in the evolution of day services and supports is the development of community based day supports that we now call “My Day”. My Day services are now offered in the community in which an individual lives.  

These services are in locations that are not isolated from the community  but rather places that promote the full integration and inclusion of individuals with disabilities. My Day has formed partnerships with local businesses and churches. “It has been a real pleasure having the My Day Program here at MRC. They are a true blessing to have in church!” comments Emily Borger Administrative Assistant at Maurice Reformed Church in Maurice IA. 

The My Day programs spend a majority of their time in the community participating in deliberate and purposeful activities. “Things that we really emphasize in My Day are community connections and community integration ” notes Erin Eggebeen Manager of My Day West. Activities might include: volunteering accessing community facilities such as libraries wellness centers taking tours of local businesses exploring area parks/nature centers.  

 ”It’s been really exciting to see the relationships that have formed between our program members and people in the community as they work alongside each other ” comments Eggebeen. “They have been able to develop some special connections with each other.” 

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