Hope Haven Clinicians Learn Advances in Trauma Related Research

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.
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The Hope Haven Clinical Team had the unique opportunity to attend a 2-Day live webcast trauma conference. Bessel van der Kolk MD presented on Trauma with Healing.

Dr. van der Kolk is the world’s leading expert in the field of traumatic stress and best known for his New York Times best selling book  The Body Keeps the Score. Dr. van der Kolk is  professor of psychiatry at Boston University School of Medicine and  medical director of the Trauma Center in Boston where he also serves as director of the National Center for Child Traumatic Stress Complex Trauma Network.

Hope Haven’s Clinical Team was able to learn about the neuroscience of traumatic stress and gain a better understanding of mind-body treatment approaches. Clinicians were able to learn about the latest trauma related research and recommended interventions. The team enjoyed the chance to consider new ways to identify and treat trauma and found the experience to be a valuable opportunity.