Finding Confidence

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 .
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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.” 

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