Mental Health & Recovery Program Updates

By 7017444915 May 29, 2026
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” Colossians 3:23 For many years, Ryan made his living as a truck driver. It was work he knew well, but when health concerns made it necessary for him to make a change, he found himself facing an uncertain future. In March of 2024, Ryan was referred to Hope Haven through Vocational Rehabilitation Services for help finding meaningful employment. Like many people starting over, the path was not immediate or easy. Ryan and his employment specialist explored many different opportunities, but the right fit had not yet come along. Then, in April of 2025, BioVerse entered the picture. BioVerse had partnered with Hope Haven before, both through in-house production work and by welcoming individuals on-site to help with production needs. When they began looking for an office assistant, Ryan came to mind. Although he had never worked in an office role, he had basic computer knowledge, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn. A work trial was arranged, and almost immediately, it became clear that Ryan and BioVerse were a perfect match. Since joining the team, Ryan has become an important part of BioVerse’s daily operations. His supervisor, Lori Henning, shared that Ryan has shown “a rare combination of technical curiosity and a can-do work ethic.” He has embraced new technology, including AI, to help solve software challenges, and when production needs increased, he stepped onto the manufacturing floor without hesitation. Lori wrote, “He hasn’t just filled a role; he has enriched our company culture and reminded us of the value of a truly dedicated partner.” For Ryan, this opportunity was not simply about finding a new job. It was about finding a place where his skills could shine in a new way. His story shows us that when people are connected with meaningful work, they do more than just fill a role. They strengthen an entire workplace. Your support helps open the door for people like Ryan. Because of your generosity, Hope Haven can continue building partnerships with local employers and help people find places where their skills and strengths are truly valued. If you wish to contribute, plea se CLICK HERE to donate today. Thank you for your continued support, prayers, and partnership in Hope Haven’s mission.
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Here’s an update on some of our Mental Health & Recovery programs provided by Hope Haven Mental Health Manager Carolyn Salberg.

Peer Support

Peer Support’s six Recovery Mentors continue to walk the pathway towards recovery alongside individuals struggling with mental health issues.  Strides toward recovery are regularly witnessed as the mentors guide and support the participants while they work to break isolation learn appropriate coping tools build relationships and acquire social skills.

Peer Support has had an average of 67 participants over the past 12 months and has worked with participants in 16 different towns in Northwest Iowa. This number is on the increase due to the opening of Hope Haven community living homes in Le Mars. This has necessitated the hiring of another staff member and has spotlighted the need for even more Mental Health education in the Peer Support department.

Key to Success

Key to Success’ four practitioners have been hard at work assisting participants in realizing their dreams by obtaining or recovering successful and satisfying roles in their community. The popularity of the program exists due to the success of the practitioners and participants.

Key to Success has had an average of 26 participants over the past 12 months and has worked with clients spread all over Northwest Iowa. A fourth staff member was hired for this program and staff have been hard at work to increase the numbers of participants receiving the high levels of service that Key to Success has continually provided over the years.