Celebrating National DSP Recognition Week

The Gift of Mobility: Luke's Story

By 7017444915 • December 23, 2025
For the entire beginning of his life, Luke lived life on the floor. We met him on our fourth distribution day in Kenya. His arrival at the site was quiet, but his story spoke volumes. Luke, 11, lives with cerebral palsy. Before he was brought to a children’s home for the disabled, he had endured years of neglect. He was tied up, unable to move around, and kept inside his home so his disability would remain hidden. When they found him, he was emaciated, in constant pain, and X-rays revealed a broken hip that had gone untreated for years. His caregiver, Don, brought Luke to our distribution site for the first wheelchair he has ever owned. Fitting his chair took more than two hours, but Luke smiled through every moment of it. He seemed to understand that his world was opening up for the first time. During the fitting, one of our team members stayed by Luke’s side, comforting him. She shared, “I spent a lot of time with him, praying and singing and just stroking the side of his face. And I think that’s one of the things that really got me, I don’t think he’s had much human contact. He would just lean into me, wanting me to keep going, and he grabbed at my hands like he didn’t want to let go.” Every wheelchair you help provide becomes a turning point - a chance for a child to sit upright for the first time, attend school, join their peers, or simply experience life beyond the walls where they were once hidden. For Luke, it meant being seen, supported, and cared for in ways he had never known. This Christmas season, you can give the gift of mobility and change a life forever. Your support ensures that the most vulnerable are not forgotten and brings dignity and hope to children who have endured far too much. Luke is not alone — children like him are waiting across the world. “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40 You can change a life today. Every gift brings light into the darkness and gives children like Luke a future filled with possibility. Thank you for giving children like Luke, and so many others, a chance at dignity and hope. If you wish to contribute, please CLICK HERE to donate today. We are deeply grateful for your support and prayers as we continue our mission to serve and uplift those in need.
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It has been a great week celebrating and recognizing our great Hope Haven DSPs! Each of the DSPs individually recognized this week will receive a $100 gift card in appreciation for their hard work and dedication to Hope Haven. 

Here are a few final thank you’s to our DSPs from Hope Haven directors:

LeAnn Blau – DSP’s we thank you for all the work you do each and every day in your very important role as a DSP. You are the heart of what we do and we celebrate you each and every day but especially this week. Thank you for making a difference in people’s lives and fulfilling Hope Haven’s Vision and Mission. We appreciate your contributions as you empower people with disabilities each day. You rock! 

Michaela Simmons – Thank you for all that you do! You are the backbone of this organization and we wouldn’t be able to do it without you. The work that you do every day is appreciated and does not go unnoticed. I am truly blessed to be surrounded with so many amazing DSPs. 

Lisa Schwanke– DSP’s thank you for the difference you make in the lives of the people we serve. You are the center of bringing our vision to life truly community committed. Thank You!  

Carla Kieft – Thank you to all our DSP’s for all the hard work they do in supporting the people we serve in achieving their goals and living the lives they choose! 

Matt Buley – Nowhere in the mission vision or values of Hope Haven is the word “love.” I guess it’s kind of like the word “trinity” in the Bible. It isn’t necessary; it’s there throughout. When I think about direct support I think that’s what love is really about. What you do is love people and we are so grateful. Thank you thank you thank you! 

April Metzger – Words alone cannot express the appreciation that I have for the work that you do. To have the gifts and talents to care for others and walk daily alongside people to reach their full potential is a blessing to those served their families your community and to your agency. Your impact is mighty every time you come to work do not forget that and do not underestimate your impact. Thank you for what you do and more importantly for who you are!  

Dawn Spiess – DSPs the word “Gratitude ” is what comes to mind when I think of the many things you do. I am thankful for your commitment your compassion your patience and your overall hard work day in and day out. Thank you for being present each and every day and supporting the many individuals who are served here at Hope Haven.  

Terry Meyer – DSPs are the heart of what we do and who we are! Value each one of you and keep up the good work! The people we serve and the communities are affected by your caring touch!