Navigating New Routines

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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If you’ve ever lived with a roommate you know it can often take time to find a rhythm.  That hasn’t been an issue for the three new occupants of a home in Spencer Iowa. While the women knew of each other from Hope Haven Day Hab activities they had never lived together. In fact  all three girls moved directly from their parents’ homes. 

In the month since they’ve been together however they’ve quickly built traditions. Sunday is movie and popcorn night Monday is their grocery day and on Wednesdays they go out to dinner. They coordinate chores and look forward to warmer weather when they can spend time together in their home’s large backyard.  “The girls are adjusting really well and are jumping right in with establishing their own routines ” notes Jasmin Sandoval Community Living Lead. 

House resident Christine Hemann enjoys the perk of having her own space and takes pride in keeping things clean and in their correct place.  In addition to participating in Day Hab five days a week she spends time exercising playing games on the computer and being creative.   

One of Christine’s roommates Allie Mcgruder participates in Special Olympics and Day Hab.  She also works at Pizza Hut through Hope Haven’s My Choice program and loves being out in the community.  “Allie is so social and can make friends with anyone!” affirms Community Living Manager Amanda Morony. 

The home is staffed when the residents are home and although there is one spot open before it is at full capacity they are waiting for the right person.  Explains Sandoval “We want them to find the right match.  The girls get to meet each other and the parents to decide if they want to live together.”  

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