Desmond

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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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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