Hope Haven and Dordt University Partner in Sioux Center Residence

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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Starting July 2019 Dordt University will provide Hope Haven with rental housing for four individuals. The transition is due in part to a partnership forged between Hope Haven and Dordt University.

“We have always appreciated the services that Hope Haven provides kingdom citizens in Northwest Iowa and we are happy to be able to partner with them on this endeavor ” said Howard Wilson chief administrative officer at Dordt University.

This kind of partnership between the two entities traces back to 2014 when Dordt provided temporary housing for Hope Haven residents who were displaced due to flooding.

When a graduate assistant house at Dordt became available this year a year-long lease was offered to Hope Haven for its residents. This residential opportunity fills a void for Hope Haven as there is a momentum in disability services for providers to rent instead of own homes for individuals served.

“Dordt University and Hope Haven both have deep roots in the region with ministries that have an impact around the globe. We’re proud to be working with them in another tangible way and are grateful for their commitment to people with disabilities ” said Hope Haven CEO Matt Buley. “I have no doubt the individuals we serve will feel welcomed and at home at Dordt and we’re excited to partner on their behalf.”