Community Acts of Kindness

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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Once a KidChair wheelchair has made its way to the child who ultimately receives it (in a country like Vietnam and Romania) it has usually made a long journey around the world.  The roots of that KidChair can be traced back to Hope Haven International Ministries (HHIM) workshops – often one in Orange City IA. Located in a building along the highway amongst the Northwestern College campus the Trinity Reformed Wheelchair Workshop is comprised of 8-10 volunteers who gather to construct and assemble KidChair “kits” twice a week.   

In order to create a KidChair wheelchair kit these volunteers diligently perform a number of tasks – including tracing cutting sewing – and working with various fabrics and foam to construct the cushion aspects of the wheelchair. The completed kits are then sent to one of a few HHIM workshops that assemble the final product – a functional KidChair.  

The group is composed largely of volunteers from area Reformed churches and operates on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. It’s a small space but wisely utilized and generously provided by Northwestern College. Despite some pauses last spring due to the pandemic the shop is currently functional and full of activity – and has been for about a year. 

The group that works here not only has passion for the wheelchairs they are producing but also has displayed a great deal of ambition to see the workshop come to fruition.  Stemming from a volunteer inquiry at church in 2019 the group has brought forth many participants who view this endeavor as a more than just a one-time opportunity. Rather it’s become a longer-term involvement for most. Speaking on this level of commitment volunteer Dave Mars comments “the longevity of volunteers is critical and such a blessing.”   

Additionally many of the volunteers like Jerry Dykstra and his wife Chris have put forth plenty of time and effort to get the shop operational – offering to help clean install lighting organize work flow among many other tasks. Trinity Reformed Church also donated a new sewing machine to help productivity and Den Hartog Industries has manufactured punches to help improve the efficiency and quality of the workshop.   

This endeavor involves Pioneer Retirement Home and Prairie Ridge Nursing home where ladies help with cutting out fabric. Harriet Kleinhesselink and Artie Hegstad have both taken a keen interest in participating. The contributions from these women greatly help in moving the process along. 

With the combined efforts of all their volunteers this workshop has produced approximately 130 wheelchair kits since their inception.  “While what we do at times seems simple placing that child in that chair is our goal…being the hands and feet of Jesus ” Mars explains. Hope Haven is deeply grateful for all our generous volunteers who contribute their time and energy to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities!   

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