In October 1958, what is now The Haft was an abandoned 105 acre sheep farm with a dilapted barn, surrounded by mostly barren hillside and a swamp formed by beaver activity.  The name Haft was given to it by Glenn and Jean Hart, who intended to make it a place of quiet and satisfying retirement for themselves.  As they transformed the property into a home and invited friends and family to visit and help with the work, they began to realize that there was a higher purpose for it.  The word “Haft” means both a pasture-like place suitable for dwelling and also the handle of a tool or weapon.  That is exactly what The Haft has become to the many people who have come to seek meaning and purpose in their lives or spend just a few days of quiet get away from the press of daily activities.

In 1972, The Haft was incorporated and approved as a non-profit 501(c)(3) educational, scientific, and religious organization.  The Harts gave ownership of the property and its improvements over to a Board of Trustees.  Throughout the 1970s it served as a refuge for people fleeing oppression and a retreat center for university and church groups.  From 1980 until 2007, The Haft’s service was focused on men and women, young and old, dealing with addictions and lifestyles that were destructive and unhealthy.  The stories of lives impacted, some radically transformed, would fill a book.

By 2007 it was becoming almost impossible to find leadership and staffing for the continuation of the ministry as it was.  A decision was made to reorganize The Haft and redirect the vision and ministry focus.  Today, The Haft is committed to serving already established and emerging leaders intent on bringing hope and life to their organizations, families, and communities through the power of God’s truth and love.