Lisa and Dan Rowell: Giving Back to Strengthen Community

Lisa and Dan Rowell’s giving to the Haven is rooted in a deep connection to the Upper Valley. Dan grew up in Lebanon, Lisa in Claremont, and though they now live in Moultonborough, New Hampshire, they still feel tied to the community where they began.

“A neighbor of Dan’s parents passed away and the Haven was the suggested donation—I believe that was our first donation,” Lisa recalls. “Shortly after, a lifelong friend of mine told me his daughter started working there, which sparked more interest. After doing more research, we have been impressed with what the Haven is doing.”

That impression has grown into consistent support. The Rowells give to the Haven’s annual fund and were also contributors to the new Shelter & Resource Center, scheduled to open next year. Their choice to give is about trust and visibility. “We believe in donating to local organizations where we can trust and see how our donation is being put to work. There’s always been a strong belief in supporting our local community to keep it strong and provide relief to those that are struggling.”

“Food and shelter are basic necessities that everyone should have access to,” they explain. “Sometimes people are in difficult situations and a little relief on the basic necessities can help alleviate the stress of everyday life.”

Looking ahead, they see the Shelter & Resource Center as a chance to make a lasting change. “For the unhoused population, we hope that it gives them the resources and support needed to get their lives back on track. Providing resources and support is important so they can find a place to live, find employment, live in a secure environment, and take care of their families. For the broader community, we believe this support will lead to fewer unhoused people, less drug abuse, mental health issues, and crime.”

They see their giving as a way to stand beside people through periods of uncertainty. “We hope that our donation supports people who are going through a difficult time in their lives and giving them hope for a better tomorrow. Letting them know that there is an organization available to them that can help with food, housing, child care and giving them direction in where to find other social services… is critical.”

When asked what they would say to someone considering supporting the Haven for the first time, they are direct: “Visit the Haven food shelf or the shelter, volunteer, sign up for the newsletters or visit their website, see what is on their wishlist—educate yourself. Everyone wants their donation to matter.”

One memory from years ago still shapes how Lisa thinks about giving. She remembers learning that something as simple as milk was out of reach for many families. “I was very confused, because if I wanted milk, I just picked some up at the store. Many people couldn’t afford it. Sometimes it is the smallest thing that makes a difference.” Lisa helped set up a program with a dairy farm so families could receive fresh milk each week. For the Rowells, that experience underscored how even simple gestures can meet an essential need.

The Rowells believe that nearly everyone has the capacity to give in some way, whether through money, time, or talent. They feel that supporting the Haven ensures that more people in the Upper Valley can find stability and opportunity.

Thank you to Lisa and Dan for your consistent and thoughtful support and generosity!