Hope Haven Heroes: Jebadia

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 we’re introducing you to another one of our many Hope Haven Heroes. We are acknowledging these staff members for going above and beyond during the pandemic. They have volunteered to work in Hope Haven community living sites that have tested positive for COVID-19. And these are not the only heroes – over sixty staff have volunteered to help out in this way if needed. We are so grateful to their dedication to the people that we serve. Keep reading to learn more about Jebadia and why he is a “Hope Haven Hero”.

Jebadia Downard – Community Living Supervisor

How long have you been with Hope Haven? 2.5 years

How did you make the decision to help out in homes that have tested positive for COVID? I saw the need and offered my assistance. I have done a quarantine in Rock Valley. I most recently did a quarantine in Hull as well.

What have been some challenges and surprising positives at work during this time? It was challenging to be away from my family the most. My time in both quarantines seemed to fly by working with a great 3 person team to try keeping everyone safe and healthy.

Any other thoughts? The preparation we have done as an organization has helped tremendously in dealing with these situations. We made it through both times with excellent teamwork!

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