Spiritual Retreats Draw Record Number of Attendees

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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While this year’s Spiritual Retreats looked a bit different than years past that didn’t impact attendance. In fact the two retreats hosted this fall noted record numbers. With a new hybrid format attendees could opt to join virtually via zoom or attend in person with social distancing and other safety parameters in place. This year’s theme was “Everyone Has a Gift to Share”. The individual sessions consisted of topics like “Made in God’s Image” “The Gospel of God’s Love” “What are Spiritual Gifts?” and “What is My Spiritual Gift?”.  

Hosted by Hope Haven’s Spiritual Support Manager Daniel DeVries and Spiritual Support Associate Jim Hudzinski spiritual retreats are held each year and serve as an available resource for individuals served by Hope Haven. This year’s fall retreats were held on two dates throughout the month of November and included around 170 participants from the following locations: Estherville Hull Orange City Rock Rapids Rock Valley Sioux Center Spirit Lake and Spencer. There will be another retreat in Minnesota in early 2021.