Hope Haven Society Conducts 56th Annual Meeting 

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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Hope Haven Inc. held its 56th Annual Society Meeting on Tuesday October 27th 2020 in a hybrid format both virtually via zoom and in person in the Hope Haven gymnasium. During the meeting society members re-elected Dale Honken Paul Janssen Nancy Dorhout and Ron Boote to an additional three-year term on the Board of Directors. 

The Society members also received the 2020-21 operating budget of $46 575 750 and a $952 000 budget for the Hope Haven Support Foundation gift budget. Organization updates were presented by Terry Meyer Chief Financial Officer Mark Siemonsma Director of Development Carla Kieft Director of My Day services and Matt Buley CEO. 

The Board of Directors held their organizational meeting and elected Ron Boote Hull President; Lyle Ten Haken Sioux Falls Vice President; Nancy Dorhout Rock Valley Secretary; Todd Visser Rock Valley Treasurer. Elected to the Executive Committee were: Rev. Steve Breen  Orange City and Dr. Kent Eknes Rock Valley.  

For the Hope Haven Support Foundation Board Joe Van Tol and John Van Zanten were re-elected for additional one-year terms. Gregg Boone Howard Beernink and Elwyn Hoogendoorn were re-elected to additional three-year terms.