Hope Haven CEO Matt Buley to step down after nine years

Matt Buley will step down as Hope Haven’s chief executive on July 15, ending a nine-year run at the helm of one of Storm Lake’s largest service providers. The transition comes after years that tested its operations through the COVID-19 pandemic and the historic June 2024 flooding, while it expanded work across disability services, mental health and recovery, residential support, community living and career opportunities.

Board President Ron Boote said Buley leaves the organization stronger and prepared for what comes next. Buley said serving Hope Haven had been one of the great privileges of his life and that he would keep cheering for the agency long after he is gone.

Hope Haven has served Iowa and Minnesota for more than 50 years, and its mission is helping people build work and life skills so they can live productively in their communities.

Hope Haven acquired Faith, Hope & Charity in 2017, bringing in an organization that had served children and young adults with special needs for 50 years. Its 2025 materials listed partnerships with two Storm Lake churches as it explored more inclusive worship and ministry.

The June 2024 flood damaged its main office in Rock Valley, offices in Sheldon, Spencer and Rock Rapids, eight community living facilities and the Hope Haven International Ministries warehouse in Rock Valley. It estimated $3 million in property damage and displaced 50 residents.

Hope Haven served more than 1,500 children and adults in Iowa and Minnesota, and its international division had delivered more than 125,000 wheelchairs worldwide. Terry Meyer, Hope Haven’s chief financial officer, will serve as interim CEO, with Chief of Staff Lisa Schwanke supporting the transition while the board searches for the next leader. Hope Haven has brought in JobfitMatters to recruit the replacement. Buley is headed to Minneapolis, where he will become Hammer & NER’s next CEO on July 27, succeeding John Estrem after 14 years.