Giving Tuesday 2022

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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Giving Tuesday is November 29, 2022. This is a day that encourages people to do good. Over the past 10 years, this idea has grown into a global movement that inspires people to give and celebrate generosity.

For Giving Tuesday, Hope Haven will be raising funds for a sensory swing frame to be put in a My Day room in Rock Valley! This swing will give individuals multiple physical and mental benefits.

Individuals with autism often feel dysregulated, or confused and overwhelmed within their environment. Many of them find the smooth rocking and swaying of a swing to help them relax and feel soothed. They may be able to concentrate and focus better during and after movement activities. Additionally, people with sensory processing disorder (SPD) struggle with understanding the world around them. Our understanding of SPD has led us to appreciate the benefits of swinging as a source of therapy and relaxation.

Altogether, vestibular input through single point and 2-point swings is crucial for development. It helps develop muscle tone, balance, postural security, regulation (behavior), alertness, focus, eye movements, auditory and language processing (communication).

Our goal is to raise $1,000 to purchase this swing. A matching gift of up to $1,000 provided by the Blauwet
Family in memory of their brother Scott, who was served by Hope Haven for many years. Scott valued work and worked full-time in the Hope Haven Parkview workshop while also being involved in My Day. Please consider giving this year on Giving Tuesday in memory of Scott!

DONATE

Please visit our website on November 29 to donate to this great cause: Donate Now

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