Employment Services: Finding the Perfect Fit

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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Marisa’s positive energy is undeniably contagious as she simultaneously describes her job with Dordt College’s Creative Dining and socializes with her coworkers. It’s right before lunch hour and the kitchen at Dordt Commons is humming with activity. Marisa’s already completed round one today breakfast and is ready for the next wave of students to sweep through at midday.  

Her duties include washing dishes and cleaning tables but this year she will also take on some new tasks like tidying up the dining hall post meal sorting silverware and helping with the lines. Tasks that Marisa seems more than ready for “Marisa does a great job for us she always stays on task ” notes her supervisor Nick Lawrence. 

This is Marisa’s first job in the community and she’s been at Dordt for about a year. This year she will work five days a week five hours a day. Previously Marisa worked at Parkview Industries in Rock Valley learning valuable skills that she’s now transitioned into the daily responsibilities at her current job.  

The camaraderie is quickly noticed within the Creative Dining crew and from their anecdotes  it’s clear Marisa’s presence brings a lot of joy to the group.  Catering Manager Mindi Sneller sums it all up with a warm smile directed at Marisa  “Marisa’s been a blessing. We’re very glad to have her here.”