Our Core Values
We all have value.
We all deserve dignity and meaning.
We all have limitations, and we all need grace.
We all need relationships with people we enjoy.
We all can contribute in a real and substantive way to community.
We each are fiercely loved by Jesus Christ and uniquely reflect the image of God.
Benjamin’s Hope acknowledges Jesus Christ as sovereign over all creation, and we seek to honor Him in our relationships, endeavors and hearts.
OUR STORY
The Benjamin’s Hope story began with a realization that every parent of a child with developmental differences has to face: “One day, the school bus is going to stop coming.”
One day, the structure that helps my child connect, learn, and grow will no longer exist.
When that day comes, every family wants their son or daughter to find a continuing sense of safety, purpose, and joy while also participating as a valued member of their greater community.
Krista Mason and her husband Dave found themselves starting to ponder this reality around the time their son Ben was ten years old. Ben had a diagnosis of autism that included nonverbal communication as his primary form of engaging the world. As Ben grew, the Masons recognized a need for their son and those like him to have a place to thrive as adults.
What ensued was years of research, education, awareness building and development. Krista visited organizations around the nation that offered different care models for adults with diverse abilities. She met with experts in the medical, psychological, community health, legal and social work fields to determine the best path forward for opening an adult foster care nonprofit organization. Krista also spent a lot of time caring for Ben, witnessing what brought him delight and helped him access a sense of empowerment.
“Benjamin’s Hope was built around a simple question: “What makes life wonderful?” We believe life is richer when all people share access to a safe home, purposeful work, a community they enjoy, and a church where every expression of worship is recognized and all participants are affirmed as vital.”
-Krista Mason
Co-Founder
Benjamin’s Hope
In her research, Krista learned there is no one-size fits all model for offering care, inspiring the person-centered approach of Benjamin’s Hope. She also realized that among different care approaches, a farmstead model offered unique flourishing for autistic adults with pronounced sensory sensitivities.
Krista launched the “Live, Learn, Play, Worship” model to inspire the creation of Benjamin’s Hope. While many organizations like Ben’s Hope embrace a “Live, Learn, Play” model of care, Krista also wanted to ensure those with developmental differences seeking a home in the church could experience the full joy of participation in a faith community without judgement, isolation or a curriculum that removes them from the larger community.
Today, Benjamin’s Hope serves as a debt-free 501 (c3) organization that not only offers a thriving neighborhood cherished as home by 30 adults with developmental differences, but also a community for Christ followers of all abilities, now 400 members strong. In addition, the 52 acres of Ben’s Hope serve as a central gathering for the larger community--all to help ensure individuals of every ability can live, learn, play and worship in the ways that fit them best.
NOW HIRING
SIDEKICK POSITION (Part-Time or full-time)
Sidekicks have the opportunity to help our friends with many of their daily activities. Together you will plan and prepare meals, go shopping, maybe pick some tomatoes or cucumbers for a salad from our local garden. You’ll probably need to be helpful in personal matters, like bathing and such, or helping friends get dressed for the day. You will support friends as they take care of laundry and keep their home clean.
An important part of being a Sidekick is being a good friend. This may mean you take walks together, visit the horses and chickens, sing songs or help your friends learn to take care of their home. This job is about being together in meaningful ways. This may be the most important work you do in your life. You will be part of making life rich and full for your friends!
This is not an easy position, and there will be days that are very demanding. You will find yourself stretched and challenged, and (we are confident!) deeply blessed.
QUALIFICATIONS OF A SIDEKICK
Must be able to work alone and with a team.
Must dress and behave in a professional manner while having fun.
Must have a High School diploma or equivalent.
Must be able to work various shifts plus some weekends and holidays.
Must be at least 18 years old.
A PERSON WHO MAKES A GREAT SIDEKICK
Full of fun and does not mind if they get a little dirty
A believer that all people can be successful
A quick thinker
Gentle and calm
Positive and enthusiastic
Willing to learn and try new things
Able to respond and react to crises with confidence
A person who enjoys all kinds of people and sharing information
Calm in difficult situations
BENEFITS OF WORKING AT BENJAMIN’S HOPE
Paid training (no experience necessary)
Reliable schedule - Full and Part Time positions available
Health Insurance for Full Time employees
401k with employer match
Paid Time Off
Short Term Disability
Supportive, Christian environment
Premium weekend wage