10 Questions with a Community Living Certified Lead Coach

By 7017444915 July 22, 2025
At Hope Haven, we believe in the profound power of transformation. Every individual carries the potential for growth when given the right support and opportunities. 2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us of this truth: ‘Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!’ Josh Canny’s story is a powerful testament to this belief. His journey of growth and resilience exemplifies how faith and support can lead to extraordinary change. Josh, born in Spirit Lake, Iowa, found his home at Hope Haven at the age of 18. Now 35, his journey illustrates the power of compassion, opportunity, and community. Josh began in Hope Haven’s Parkview workshop, where he struggled to find fulfillment. However, everything changed with the introduction of the My Choice Employment program, offering Josh the chance to explore community employment. He took this opportunity and thrived. Today, Josh works nearly 40 hours a week at Double HH Manufacturing, contributing across multiple departments. From running machines to packaging, Josh’s versatility and uplifting attitude have become invaluable to his team. Austin Vande Vegte, Operations Manager at Double HH, shares, “Josh’s contributions have had a positive impact on our team. His willingness to learn and help across the plant ensures we deliver quality to our customers on time.” Josh’s journey to independence hasn’t been without challenges. Losing his mother at 13 and experiencing an unstable upbringing left him with little structure or support. For a time, he lived with relatives who didn’t encourage his growth. But at Hope Haven, Josh found stability, relationships built on trust, and the structure he needed to thrive. Over the years, Josh has grown immensely—both at work and in life. He now lives independently in Sioux Center, enjoys cooking, video games, and going out to eat or to the movies with his friends. He has transformed into a kind, respectful person; taking pride in his work ethic and relationships. Amanda, Josh’s longtime Double HH Job Coach, reflects, “Josh has grown so much. Watching him mature and succeed has been like seeing family flourish. I am so proud of the person Josh has become.” Josh’s journey from instability to independence is a powerful example of how lives can be transformed through faith, compassion, and community. At Hope Haven, we know that every individual we serve has their own unique story and potential—just like Josh. Our dedicated staff helps individuals realize their potential, providing the support and encouragement they need to thrive. This story of resilience highlights the importance of supporting individuals in difficult circumstances. With your help, more people like Josh can receive the guidance, care, and opportunities they deserve. Your generosity allows us to expand our programs, equip individuals with necessary resources, and foster environments where they can truly flourish. Together, we can make a lasting impact on their lives and the communities they call home. If you wish to contribute, please CLICK HERE to donate today. At Hope Haven, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your support and prayers in serving our mission now and in the future.
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There are many different types of cakes on the table.
By nicole.andree August 6, 2025
October 7, 2025
A poster for russell dickerson live at the district saturday august 2nd 2025
July 10, 2025
Exciting News! Don’t miss this incredible country concert featuring Russell Dickerson, who quickly stood out from the pack with four consecutive career-starting singles reaching No. One on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. Known for hits like “Yours,” “Blue Tacoma,” “Every Little Thing,” and “God Gave Me A Girl,” his latest single, “Bones,” is already making waves! Grab your tickets now and join us for an unforgettable night of music! Saturday, August 2nd, 2025 Live at The District I All-Ages Show PIT Doors Open 6:00 PM | GA Doors 6:30 PM | Show Starts 7:30 PM Purchase Tickets Today: CLICK HERE THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS: PEOPLES BANK | WIRELESS WORLD | FIRST PREMIER BANK About Russell Dickerson Russell Dickerson is known for his electrifying performances and “unstoppable energy fans can’t get enough of” (E! News). After bursting onto the scene, the Tennessee native quickly stood out from the pack as he released four consecutive career-starting singles that reached No. One on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. Since then, Dickerson has earned platinum or better status on singles including “Yours” (3X Platinum), “Blue Tacoma” (2X Platinum), “Every Little Thing” (Platinum), “Love You Like I Used To” (Platinum), and “She Likes It” ft. Jake Scott (2X Platinum). Just last year, he clocked his fifth No. One with “God Gave Me A Girl.” This year, he released “Good Day To Have A Great Day,” followed by his latest single “Bones,” which was the biggest radio debut of his career. For more information, visit www.russelldickerson.com .
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In this blog we share what Community Living Certified Lead Coach Dyllin loves about his job. Dyllin has been a member of the Hope Haven team since 2018. Keep reading below to learn more about Dyllin in his interview!

Employed Since:

March 19th 2018

How did you come to be in your position? Did you seek it out or fall into it by happy accident?

I saw an opportunity to better assist my clients so I applied and got the position.

What gifts do you bring to your role?

I would say guidance. I am present in my client’s life almost everyday and am able to assist with skills to become independent in their future.

What lessons have you learned since working at Hope Haven?

I have learned that Hope Haven is much bigger than just Rock Valley. We have clients and staff all over with the same goal bettering one another.

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of the job is taking the clients out in the community. We get to see a smile on the clients faces. We get to show the clients that they are accepted in the community and are not judged by someone because of a disability.

What is your favorite part of your workday?

My favorite part is seeing how my clients days have been. We all have had hard days in life. We the staff can assist with providing comfort by explaining it will be alright.

What’s the hardest part of your job?

The hardest part of my job would be not being able to make a client more successful at something. We have some clients that have limited verablization. We try our best to understand what the client is in need of for that situation. We just sometimes are unable to achieve the answer.

What is your day not complete without?

My day is not complete without communication. We strive for teamwork in Hope Haven to assist our clients. I like to know that my clients are safe and taken care on my days off.

If you were training a new team member what advice would you give them?

I would strive for communication and willingness to be open. The clients we serve want to engage with you.

Name three things on your bucket list.

1. I will become a Community Living Certified supervisor.

2. I will strive to get more people to understand these are people in need of care not just a disability.

3. I will go to every state before I retire.