Hope Haven and Dordt University Partner in Sioux Center Residence

Hope Haven Ambassadors: Changing the Narrative

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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Starting July 2019 Dordt University will provide Hope Haven with rental housing for four individuals. The transition is due in part to a partnership forged between Hope Haven and Dordt University.

“We have always appreciated the services that Hope Haven provides kingdom citizens in Northwest Iowa and we are happy to be able to partner with them on this endeavor ” said Howard Wilson chief administrative officer at Dordt University.

This kind of partnership between the two entities traces back to 2014 when Dordt provided temporary housing for Hope Haven residents who were displaced due to flooding.

When a graduate assistant house at Dordt became available this year a year-long lease was offered to Hope Haven for its residents. This residential opportunity fills a void for Hope Haven as there is a momentum in disability services for providers to rent instead of own homes for individuals served.

“Dordt University and Hope Haven both have deep roots in the region with ministries that have an impact around the globe. We’re proud to be working with them in another tangible way and are grateful for their commitment to people with disabilities ” said Hope Haven CEO Matt Buley. “I have no doubt the individuals we serve will feel welcomed and at home at Dordt and we’re excited to partner on their behalf.”