Community Connections

By 7017444915 June 26, 2026
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others…” 1 Peter 4:10 At Hope Haven, we believe every person has God-given gifts to share. That belief is at the heart of the Hope Haven Ambassadors, a group of individuals served through Hope Haven’s My Day program who are learning to use their voices, share their stories, and advocate for themselves and others. The Ambassadors were formed in January 2025 after a community experience sparked a bigger conversation about inclusion, dignity, and the way individuals with disabilities are perceived. Since then, the group has been working to help change that narrative. The Ambassadors have presented to community groups, attended advocacy trainings, traveled to the Capitol, and spoken about issues that matter. Along the way, they are building confidence, developing leadership skills, and helping others understand that every person deserves to be included and respected. For Maggie, being an Ambassador is about helping her community see people with disabilities as equals. “I want individuals with disabilities to be treated as equal to everybody else,” she shared. “I want my community to know it’s okay to be different.” For Lori, the message is simple but powerful. “We are regular people who have different challenges,” she said. “I want to help my community understand that people with disabilities are not less of a person because of their disabilities.” For Octavio, advocacy means using his voice not only for himself, but also for others who may struggle to speak up for what they need. Through his experience with the Ambassadors, he has learned something important: “Our voice matters.” Programs like My Day are about so much more than daily activities. They are about friendship, confidence, purpose, community, and belonging. They create opportunities for people to discover their strengths, build relationships, serve others, and take part in the world around them. Your support helps us continue creating opportunities like the Hope Haven Ambassadors, where individuals can build confidence, share their stories, and discover the power of their voice. Your gift allows us to keep growing alongside those we serve, making an impact that lasts. If you wish to contribute, plea se CLICK HERE to donate today. Thank you for your continued support, prayers, and partnership in Hope Haven’s mission .
Show More
A group of people are playing instruments on a stage in front of a crowd.
By Hope Haven October 24, 2025
February 13, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
A large group of people are sitting at long tables in a large room.
By nicole.andree October 6, 2025
March 27, 2026
More Posts →

As Hope Haven focuses on expanding integrated employment for people with disabilities and closing sheltered workshops we also are changing the way we deliver day habilitation. A major component in the evolution of day services and supports is the development of community based day supports that we now call “My Day”. My Day services are now offered in the community in which an individual lives.  

These services are in locations that are not isolated from the community  but rather places that promote the full integration and inclusion of individuals with disabilities. My Day has formed partnerships with local businesses and churches. “It has been a real pleasure having the My Day Program here at MRC. They are a true blessing to have in church!” comments Emily Borger Administrative Assistant at Maurice Reformed Church in Maurice IA. 

The My Day programs spend a majority of their time in the community participating in deliberate and purposeful activities. “Things that we really emphasize in My Day are community connections and community integration ” notes Erin Eggebeen Manager of My Day West. Activities might include: volunteering accessing community facilities such as libraries wellness centers taking tours of local businesses exploring area parks/nature centers.  

 ”It’s been really exciting to see the relationships that have formed between our program members and people in the community as they work alongside each other ” comments Eggebeen. “They have been able to develop some special connections with each other.” 

The post Community Connections appeared first on Hope Haven.