Faith Patience and a New Day

A Place to Belong: Jon's Story

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.
Show More
A group of people are playing instruments on a stage in front of a crowd.

Dueling Duo’s: Keys to Love

By Hope Haven • October 24, 2025
February 13, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
A large group of people are sitting at long tables in a large room.

Benefit Auction

By nicole.andree • October 6, 2025
March 27, 2026
More Posts →

When Traci Sanow was looking for work 22 years ago she sought out an opportunity to use her gifts of patience organization and conflict resolution to work with people of a variety of abilities. She found Hope Haven in October of 1994 and never looked back.

“In my time as a Work Services Supervisor I’ve learned a lot of things ” said Sanow who currently works at Hope Haven’s Rock Valley location. “Most importantly I’ve learned that you have to have faith. You never know what this experience or the people you work with have to offer. And they do have so much to offer.”

Sanow quickly learned that her favorite part of the job was helping others reach their goals. “That moment when everything comes together ” she adds. “When clients meet a milestone or become more independent or make a step in the direction they want to go—that’s my favorite part.”

As a Work Services Supervisor Sanow is responsible for a developing a curriculum and strategy for Hope Haven clients to learn crucial life skills while working with community businesses. She helps people with a range of abilities gain the experience and knowledge necessary to become more independent confident and engaged. 

“I don’t think I could have foreseen how that first job all those years ago could turn into a career that has taught me valuable insight on so many things ” she adds. “This includes looking beyond what we call our flaws and the unconditional acceptance we receive from those we support. Each day is a new day. As I look back there is not much that I would change or do differently.”

Those who are considering a position with Hope Haven (and we do have open positions!) could learn a lot from Traci her amazing team of coworkers and all the clients we have the honor to serve. “Looking beyond disabilities is a lot easier than you think ” said Sanow. “Especially when the rewards are so high.”

Ready for a life-changing career?

The post Faith Patience and a New Day appeared first on Hope Haven.