About Iowa Haven
A quick overview of who we are, what we do, and who we support.
Who is Iowa Haven?
Iowa Haven is a local, veteran-owned provider of home- and community-based services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We focus on home-based supports such as Host Homes, Day Habilitation, Supported Employment, Respite, Transportation, and Care Coordination in Iowa.
Who do you support?
We primarily support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are enrolled in, or working toward, Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers in Iowa. Our services are designed for people who prefer a stable home, predictable routines, and community-based supports.
Where do you provide services?
Iowa Haven is based in West Des Moines, Iowa. Our Host Homes and related supports are offered in Polk County and surrounding areas, generally within a reasonable distance of the Des Moines metro. Service availability can vary based on staffing, host home locations, and waiver authorizations.
What services do you offer?
Our core services include:
- Host Homes (Residential Habilitation)
- Day Habilitation
- Supported Employment
- Respite
- Transportation
- Care Coordination and support for teams
You can find more detail on each service on our Services page.
Are you accepting new referrals?
In many cases, yes. Capacity can vary by service type, location, and support needs. The best way to check current availability is to submit an intake referral or contact our office. We will review the information and let you know whether we are able to consider the referral now or in the future.
How our services work
Answers about Host Homes, eligibility, funding, and how to get started.
What is a Host Home?
A Host Home (Residential Habilitation) is a shared living arrangement in which an adult with an intellectual or developmental disability lives in a trained host’s home. The household provides day-to-day support, stability, and community involvement in a family-style setting.
Who is a good fit for a Host Home?
A Host Home may be a good fit for adults who:
- Prefer a smaller, family-style setting instead of a group or facility setting.
- Benefit from consistent routines and familiar relationships.
- Can safely live in a home with support, based on their plan and needs.
We review each referral individually, considering support needs, safety, compatibility, and the preferences of both the person and potential host families.
Do you support children or only adults?
Our primary focus is on adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. If you are seeking services for someone under 18, please contact us and we can discuss your situation and, when appropriate, help direct you to resources.
How are services funded?
Many services are funded through Iowa’s Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs and managed care organizations (MCOs). If you are not yet connected to an HCBS waiver, we can talk with you and your team about options and next steps.
Do you accept private pay?
In some situations, private pay arrangements may be considered, depending on the service type and availability. Please contact us to discuss your circumstances so we can determine whether this is an option.
How do I make a referral?
You can make a referral by submitting a referral form on our website, asking your case manager to reach out, or calling our office directly. We will review the information, clarify any questions, and let you know whether we can move forward. If we are not the right fit, we will communicate that clearly.
Working with Iowa Haven
Questions about becoming a host family, working as a DSP, or joining our team.
What does it mean to be a Host Family with Iowa Haven?
Host Families open their home to an adult with an intellectual or developmental disability. They provide day-to-day support, participate in team planning, and help the person build a stable, meaningful life in the community. Iowa Haven provides training, support, and oversight to help Host Families feel confident in their role.
What is the process to become a Host Family?
While the exact steps can vary, the process generally includes an application, interviews, background checks, home safety reviews, initial training, and matching with an individual. We walk households through each step so expectations are clear.
What training and support do Host Families receive?
Host Families receive structured onboarding, role-specific training, and ongoing support. Topics typically include rights, safety, documentation, communication, emergency response, and individual-specific needs. Additional training is provided as needs or plans change.
How are Host Families compensated?
Host Families receive compensation that reflects the services and supports they provide, consistent with program requirements and service authorizations. Specific amounts depend on the individual’s support needs, funding source, and other factors. Details are discussed during the application and matching process.
What roles exist besides Host Families?
In addition to Host Families, we employ and contract with Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), Day Hab support, Care Coordinators, nurses, and administrative staff. Current opportunities and a general overview of roles are available on our Careers and Apply pages.
Safety, quality, and information you share with us.
How we approach safety and quality, and how we handle information submitted through our website.
How do you help ensure safety and quality?
Safety and quality are supported through screening and training, clear policies and documentation, regular visits and check-ins, and responsive follow-up when concerns arise. We also collaborate closely with case managers, MCOs, and other providers.
What happens if there is a concern, incident, or complaint?
Any concern raised is taken seriously. When an incident or complaint is reported, we follow required reporting procedures, review what happened, and develop follow-up steps. This may include additional training, changes to plans or routines, or other actions.
Are website forms secure?
Our website uses HTTPS and online forms are processed through Formspree, a third-party service that uses modern security practices for transmitting submissions. Even so, we ask that you avoid including highly sensitive information such as Social Security numbers or banking details in any online form.
How will my information be used?
Information submitted through our website is used to respond to your inquiry, process applications, or review referrals. We limit access to staff who need the information to perform their duties and follow applicable privacy and confidentiality requirements.
Is website content legal, medical, or benefits advice?
No. Information on this website is for general informational purposes only. It is not legal advice, medical advice, or a guarantee of eligibility for any program or service. Decisions about services, benefits, and legal matters should be made in consultation with your care team, funders, and legal or professional advisors as appropriate.
What if I still have questions?
This FAQ cannot cover every situation. If you have a question that is not addressed here—or if you would like to talk through your specific scenario—please reach out by phone or through our Contact page. We are happy to listen, provide information, and help you decide whether Iowa Haven is a good fit.