Meet Laurie Bailey, a 22-year-old from Peterson, Iowa

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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Each person has a unique story… and it’s our privilege to share with you a glimpse into the lives of our Hope Haven friends, highlighting their talents and the positive impact they make in their community. 

Meet Laurie Bailey, a 22-year-old from Peterson, Iowa

Laurie has been utilizing Hope Haven’s services for the past four years as part of the My Day program and Employment Services. In May 2021, Laurie began participating in the My Day skills unlimited track, that allowed her to work on employment skills. This program assisted her in identifying interests and setting goals to ensure the best experience in a job of her choice. 


During her time in the programs, Jacqueline, Laurie’s Employment Specialist, observed Laurie’s interest in fashion, which led her to meet with Crystal, TJ-Maxx Manager in Spencer, IA. 

In July 2023, TJ-Maxx hired Laurie! “I love my job because I make people happy,” says Laurie. Her responsibility at TJ-Maxx is greeting customers, assisting them in the fitting room, and helping the customers find what they are looking for. “ Being able to interact with the customers and being part of a team are things I truly enjoy and make me feel happy.”

“ We appreciate Laurie every day with her bubbly attitude, willingness to work, and to put a smile on customers’ faces,” says Crystal. “The partnership with Hope Haven has been very positive and supportive to watch Laurie grow into her role, where there is no interference with a job coach unless she needs assistance. Laurie has great customer service, a positive attitude, overall – a great asset to the team, which led to her receiving a well-deserved raise based on her outstanding annual performance.”

As we approach the end of our fiscal year, you can support Hope Haven to help offer more opportunities to individuals like Laurie. With you, more people can pursue their passions and find meaning in their lives. Your contribution will enable us to continue our growth within our communities and by making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

If you wish to contribute, please  CLICK HERE  to donate today. We thank you for your support and prayers in serving our mission today and in the future.