From Recovery to Purpose: Ryan's Story

Peace of Mind, Redefined

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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Mental Awareness Month

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.