They can do whatever they dream of…

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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Here are a few reasons why My Choice Employment Transition Specialist Ryan loves his job:

  • “What we do is the chance to help students find a job and change their lives. I just love working with schools students parents and employers. We get to change the idea  of people telling the students they can’t and show them they can do whatever they dream of.”
  • “I care for the student’s success… I really want to find the best job for the student.”

Transition Specialists assist students in finding work opportunities (work experience and/or career planning) assist schools in helping them find employment opportunities for students and are a resource for parents in helping their kids get work experience. Ryan has been a Hope Haven employee for over 3 years.

Thank you Ryan! Here My Choice Transition Specialist Ryan chats with JD. JD discovered a talent for welding a few years ago and now transforms scrap metal into one-of-a-kind pieces of art.