When You Show Up, They Ask for What They Really Need: The Transformational Journey of Hope Haven

Kristyn Stillwell, founder of Hope Haven, embodies the very essence of transformational leadership, demonstrating how unwavering faith, intentional action, and a commitment to serving the 'least of these' can create profound and lasting change. Her journey, from a successful career in computer science and engineering to leading a thriving non-profit that has housed over 1600 individuals, is a testament to the power of divine guidance and human compassion.

Kristyn's story began not with a grand plan, but with a simple act of kindness. After moving to Houston, and in the wake of Hurricanes Rita and Katrina, her family found themselves unable to continue their tradition of serving at the Salvation Army. Instead, they prepared 50 plates of food and distributed them to those experiencing homelessness in northwest Houston. This seemingly small act sparked a realization that would alter the course of her life. After two years of these 'drive-by feedings,' Kristyn encountered a man she had fed before, prompting a poignant question: "What am I doing for God's kingdom if I don't know this guy's name?" This moment of introspection ignited a desire for sustainable impact, moving beyond temporary relief to genuine, relational transformation.

The Birth of Hope Haven

This led to the establishment of a feeding ministry, which, over five years, "accidentally" helped 73 people off the streets. This 'God accident' revealed a critical gap: while resources existed for the homeless, many couldn't access them due to barriers like lack of identification, transportation, or understanding of complex systems. Hope Haven was born out of this need, becoming the crucial bridge between individuals experiencing homelessness and the resources that could change their lives.

At the heart of Hope Haven's success is Kristyn's deeply integrated faith. She describes her daily approach as handing God the keys, saying, "You're the driver, here's the keys. You just drive us where we need to go. I'll be your wingman." This profound trust in divine direction doesn't negate planning; rather, it informs it. Her philosophy is to make a plan, but remain open to God's redirection, understanding that if a path feels like a burden, there's an easier, lighter yoke to be found. This principle guides everything from grant applications to new partnerships, with Kristyn praying for clear signs that even a "blonde girl doesn't miss it."

Guiding Principles and Core Values

Hope Haven's core values are explicitly rooted in faith: God first, family second, and career third. Kristyn emphasizes a critical distinction for her team: "Your God time is not your ministry time. Your ministry time is your career time." This ensures that personal spiritual growth remains paramount, separate from the demands of their impactful work. This intentional approach fosters an environment where the presence of the Holy Spirit is palpable, a quality Kristyn admired in another faith-based non-profit and sought to replicate at Hope Haven.

Kristyn's leadership is also characterized by an unwavering commitment to stewardship and excellence. She views every donation, whether from government grants or personal friends, as "God's money," entrusted to her to steward wisely. This perspective drives a lean operational model and a dedication to tracking outcomes like a business, not just a non-profit. The result? A $50,000 grant for street outreach has grown to $231,000, demonstrating the tangible impact of faith-driven excellence.

Holistic Mission, Tangible Results

Hope Haven's services are comprehensive, acting as a "middleman" to address every barrier keeping individuals stuck in homelessness. This includes obtaining identification, connecting people to mental and physical health services, facilitating family reunification, and guiding them through job training programs. Crucially, Hope Haven provides continuity of care, ensuring individuals are supported at every step of their journey.

• Identification assistance
• Connections to health services
• Family reunification help
• Job training guidance
• Housing program navigation

They also manage various housing programs, from subsidized options to permanent supportive housing for those with chronic needs, ensuring long-term stability.

Kristyn’s Reflections and Call to Action

Reflecting on her journey, Kristyn wishes she could tell her younger self, "The journey ahead... you have no idea what it's going to be and it's going to be hard, but it will be the best journey of your life." She encourages others to "just keep swimming when the times are tough" and to "be bold anyway," even in moments of self-doubt. Her story is a powerful reminder that when we show up with faith, compassion, and a willingness to be God's hands and feet, we create space for profound transformation, not just in the lives of those we serve, but in our own as well.

Hope Haven will be holding its annual fundraiser on March 31st. Registration is open now. Your support can help them continue their vital work of transforming lives and building a stronger community.