Be Patient…and Have Fun!

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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In this blog we share a Q&A interview with Direct Support Professional Scott Eekhoff and what he loves about his job…

Q: How did you come to be in your position? 

A: My employment with Hope Haven just kind of fell in my lap. One of the clients in a Sioux Center waiver home was an acquaintance. I always took him for breakfast on Saturday. His father who is HH board member suggested I apply at HH because he thought I interacted very well with all the clients of that house. The rest was history.

Q: What gifts do you bring to your role?

A: I’m told clients love me as a people person. I have patience. I like to make my clients day “fun”.

Q: What lessons have you learned working at Hope Haven? 

A: Every day is very different. Our clients are smarter than people expect.. way smarter! Number one.. clients always come first in care!

Q: What is your favorite part of your job? 

A: The best part of this is taking clients in the community which has been very difficult during the Covid pandemic. Also seeing them succeed in tasks is very rewarding.

Q: What is your favorite part of your workday?

A: My favorite part of the day is greeting our clients and interacting with them.

Q: What is on your personal bucket list?

A: See the NCAA Final Four.. Take an Amtrak Trip across the country.. Do a mission trip to Guatemala.

My advice for a new staff: Be patient.. don’t be afraid to make mistakes and learn.. Have Fun!!!

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