Genesis’ New Wheelchair

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.
Show More
A group of people are playing instruments on a stage in front of a crowd.
By Hope Haven August 25, 2025
February 13, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
There are many different types of cakes on the table.
By nicole.andree August 6, 2025
October 7, 2025
More Posts →

Genesis is a 5-year-old girl born in 2014. When she was born she was a very healthy baby.  At 3 months old she began to have seizures. According to the doctors Genesis had a cystic tumor located on her head (the tumor as thankfully disappeared). She was diagnosed with “Epilepsy and Quadriplegic Syndrome” and receives a large amount of care from her parents Max and Paola and her grandparents.

She was receiving therapy three times a week and has made great progress. However  due to issues with employment and transportation they could no longer take her. Genesis communicates only with her eyes and can sometimes speak in small bursts. Her family hopes to see an improvement in her posture through the new wheelchair and they are very grateful that the wheelchair will grant her more mobility. They also hope that they will be able to resume therapies for their daughter.

They thank God that he has blessed them with this help and they also bless the people who made this possible.

The post Genesis’ New Wheelchair appeared first on Hope Haven.