Loving Life and Learning New Things

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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In this blog we share a Q&A interview with Lead My Day Instructor Stephanie and what she loves about her job…

Q: How did you come to be in your position? 

A: I was helping Carla (My Day Director) on an outing to Lake Pahoja in July 2015. I told Carla I was enjoying interacting with clients in this setting. Carla asked if I would want to apply for a Day Hab position. I did – it was a happy accident.

Q: What gifts do you bring to your role?

A: I bring patience. I bring creativity which has increased with my experiences. I bring a medical background to help assess the health of clients.

Q: What lessons have you learned working at Hope Haven? 

A: I have learned that the clients we serve love life and want to learn new things.

Q: What is your favorite part of your job? 

A: My favorite part of the job is seeing clients grow in abilities and wanting to do more and participate in activities.

Q: What is your favorite part of your workday?

A: When the clients greet me in the morning and are truly happy to see me.

Q: What is your day not complete without? 

A: My day is not complete without the teamwork with staff and clients throughout the day.

Q: If you were training a new team member what advice would you give them? 

A: I would advise that they give the job time and have patience and understanding while getting to know the clients.

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