Help change lives through mobility

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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“Use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need.” Ephesians 4:28 NLT 

Across the globe, people spend hours, days, or even years in isolation, unable to experience the dignity and freedom they deserve. This past January, a group of volunteers served in Costa Rica to fulfill Hope Haven’s mission to provide advocacy and resources for those with disabilities in developing countries. They simply put their hands to work and delivered over 106 custom-fitted wheelchairs to individuals in need. More importantly, they provided them with hope and freedom.

CHANGING LIVES THROUGH MOBILITY 

Following her first trip with HHIM on January 17, 2024, volunteer Maddie Pazour , Hope Haven Day Hab Services Manager, got to see firsthand how your donations change lives. “I feel so blessed to have been given the opportunity to join the wheelchair distribution trip to Costa Rica,” said Maddie. “As the wheelchair clinics progressed throughout the week, I met some of the most amazing people, both volunteers and those receiving wheelchairs. I spent most of my time checking wheelchair brakes and transcribing the stories of how these people got to a place in their life where they needed a wheelchair. Hearing their stories and seeing their smiles is something I will never forget.”

People are often on waiting lists for years before owning a wheelchair. “When people arrive with their family members, you can see the desperation in their eyes. Then, when they finally get seated in their wheelchairs, there is unspeakable joy and to see the joy on their faces is unlike anything I have ever experienced before. It’s life-changing! Every single person I helped was so grateful, positive, and thankful for what they had. One gentleman hadn’t left his house or bed for five years, and this was his first outing. It was an honor to be a part of creating countless cherished memories for these individuals and their families. I went to Costa Rica with the mindset to give. In the end, it was me who received so much more in return.” 

HELP US CHANGE LIVES! 

Your partnership will deliver hands-on, Christ-centered help to people who wouldn’t otherwise receive the equipment they need, or the eternal source of hope and freedom. Your contribution will enable us to continue to change the lives of those in need around the world – today and in the future!

If you wish to contribute, please  CLICK HERE   to donate today. At Hope Haven, we thank you again for your support and prayers in serving our mission. 


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