A Day Habilitation Journey

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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James has always known he wanted to work in the community. He enjoys being around others and knew that in a job with the right fit  he could be a great employee. His supervisors at Day Hab encouraged him in this pursuit telling him that if he worked hard and followed his programs he could secure a job in the community. 

James remained focused on his goal and six weeks ago began working half days at the Cenex in Rock Valley Iowa.  James’ tasks include taking out the garbage cleaning and sweeping and putting wiper fluid in windshield wipers. “We’re very proud of James ” says Carla Day Hab Manager. “He wanted a community job so he worked hard and got one.” 

The Day Hab activities were important steps in getting him to where he wanted to be. Day Hab focuses on enabling each member to attain his or her maximum potential recognizing that every person has a gift ability or skill to share. The focus is on fostering social inclusion and community engagement through positive community contributions and relationship development. Members explore and engage in meaningful and purposeful activities based on individual preferences.   

James’ desire and dedication combined with his focused Day Hab training provided winning results. And through his connections at work and Day Hab he has met many people and developed lasting friendships. Observes Carla “When we’re out in the community people just sort of gravitate to him and that’s so great to see.” 

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