From Recovery to Purpose: Ryan's Story

A Place to Belong: Jon's Story

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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May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to break down stigma and uplift stories of hope, healing, and resilience. At Hope Haven, we believe in the power of transformation, and we witness it every day through programs like Peer Support Services and Individual Placement and Support (IPS), where recovery meets purpose.


When Ryan Long moved to northwest Iowa to rebuild his life, he was simply looking for stability. He connected with Plains Area Mental Health, and through their partnership with Hope Haven, was introduced to our IPS program. IPS goes beyond traditional job coaching; it integrates employment services with mental health care, offering holistic support to individuals living with mental     illness.


Ryan’s first job placement, a manufacturing position, wasn’t the right fit. But his employment specialist, Terri, saw something more in him and encouraged Ryan to consider a role in our Peer Support Services program. Ryan had learned about peer support years earlier, and the idea had always stuck with him. When the door opened again, he stepped through it.


Today, Ryan thrives as a peer support specialist at Hope Haven. Drawing from his own experience with autism, anxiety, and depression, he supports others navigating similar challenges. He helps clients build coping strategies, gain confidence, and work on personal goals, often over a cup of coffee or a walk in the community. This work doesn’t just change lives for those he supports, it’s changed Ryan, too. “This job gives me purpose,” Ryan says. “And it keeps me accountable. Knowing that people are depending on me helps me stay grounded in my own journey.”


As the Apostle Paul reminded the early church in 1 Thessalonians, we are not called to walk alone. In a world that often feels uncertain, we are instructed to encourage one another and build each other up. "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." —1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

 

That’s what Hope Haven is all about, coming alongside people in every stage of life, offering encouragement, support, and Christ-centered care. And we cannot do it without you. When you give to Hope Haven, you're not just donating. You're investing in second chances, in purpose-filled work, and in the belief that everyone is created with value and potential.

Will you help us continue walking alongside individuals like Ryan by making a gift this month? Together, let’s be the hands and feet of Christ, bringing light to dark places and hope to those who need it most.



If you wish to contribute, please CLICK HERE to donate today. At Hope Haven, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your support and prayers in serving our mission now and in the future.