Desmond

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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Today’s blog comes to you from Direct Support Professional Desmond. Keep reading to get to know Desmond and why he love his Hope Haven job:

Every individual we serve is different. Every person on the Hope Haven team is different. We at Hope Haven work to celebrate those differences while bridging the gap between the individuals we serve and the community. Joining Hope Haven means you will become an important piece in this objective.  

First: I’ve always been someone that is ministry minded. I believe that my faith should be incorporated in everything I do. At Hope Haven I am able to put my faith into action through the way I interact with my fellow employees as well as the individuals we serve. We unfortunately live in a world that isn’t always kind to what we don’t understand. However my position allows me to show the individuals we serve the love grace and mercy that overflows my heart and through my work.

Secondly: I am never bored at this job. If you are doing your job correctly you are met with challenges goals and different scenarios every day. The personality spectrum of the individuals we serve as well as the employees are as colorful as a box of crayons. We have fun we share ideas and experiences and we genuinely work to create an environment that is safe and entertaining for all.

Thirdly: You are more than just an employee. More than just a number. More than just a spot filled. We love to see each other succeed and bend over backwards to make sure that happens. Through our trainings staff meetings and online courses your skills will be honed; your strengths increased and your weaknesses developed. From first day of employment you are valued and we make sure you feel it.

Still interested in Hope Haven? Have questions? Do not hesitate to check us out at hopehaven.org or ask someone you know that is on our team. We are everywhere. Thank you for taking the time to hear me out. Come on over to Hope Haven. You won’t regret it.

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