Finding Confidence

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.
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 →

Westerns Rodeos Flannel Shirts & Horses…these are a few of Lori Strand’s favorite things. Up until a few years ago Lori’s love for all things horses was solely appreciation from afar. Thanks to HorsePower Lori has now built up the confidence to get up in the saddle take the reins and ride! 

Back in 2017 Hope Haven staff took notice of HorsePower’s programs in Sioux Falls as a possibility for Lori. HorsePower describes what they do as “equestrian programs/therapies for individuals with physical emotional and/or cognitive challenges in a quest for personal independence accomplishment self-pride and well-being”. 

Lori’s participation started with “groundwork” which consists of grooming and bonding with the horses. From there with HorsePower staff instruction and guidance she achieved the ultimate goal of riding. Outside of HorsePower Lori lives with two housemates in Pipestone and attends a work program Monday through Friday.  

Those around Lori witness that her involvement in HorsePower has been an important element in the improvement of her communication skills and confidence. “The smile that Lori wears when she is being asked about Horsepower warms your heart ” remarks Community Living Manager Amanda Russell. “You just know that this is important to her and makes her happy.” 

The post Finding Confidence appeared first on Hope Haven.