International Ministries in Romania

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
There are many different types of cakes on the table.
By nicole.andree August 6, 2025
October 7, 2025
A poster for russell dickerson live at the district saturday august 2nd 2025
July 10, 2025
Exciting News! Don’t miss this incredible country concert featuring Russell Dickerson, who quickly stood out from the pack with four consecutive career-starting singles reaching No. One on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. Known for hits like “Yours,” “Blue Tacoma,” “Every Little Thing,” and “God Gave Me A Girl,” his latest single, “Bones,” is already making waves! Grab your tickets now and join us for an unforgettable night of music! Saturday, August 2nd, 2025 Live at The District I All-Ages Show PIT Doors Open 6:00 PM | GA Doors 6:30 PM | Show Starts 7:30 PM Purchase Tickets Today: CLICK HERE THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS: PEOPLES BANK | WIRELESS WORLD | FIRST PREMIER BANK About Russell Dickerson Russell Dickerson is known for his electrifying performances and “unstoppable energy fans can’t get enough of” (E! News). After bursting onto the scene, the Tennessee native quickly stood out from the pack as he released four consecutive career-starting singles that reached No. One on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. Since then, Dickerson has earned platinum or better status on singles including “Yours” (3X Platinum), “Blue Tacoma” (2X Platinum), “Every Little Thing” (Platinum), “Love You Like I Used To” (Platinum), and “She Likes It” ft. Jake Scott (2X Platinum). Just last year, he clocked his fifth No. One with “God Gave Me A Girl.” This year, he released “Good Day To Have A Great Day,” followed by his latest single “Bones,” which was the biggest radio debut of his career. For more information, visit www.russelldickerson.com .
More Posts →

Jaclyn went on her first wheelchair distribution trip five years ago and has traveled annually with Hope Haven International every year since. The physical therapist from Le Mars Iowa says her simple mission is to give people their freedom. “Many of the people we serve on our trips have spent most of their hours and days in their beds. The wheelchairs give people mobility and that means freedom.” 

Jaclyn admits her training as a physical therapist is beneficial but emphasizes how much she also learns from others on the trips.  Her parents accompanied her on the distribution trip to Israel but only after she convinced them they didn’t need to have her specific skills. “I always told my dad as long as you can use tools unload boxes or talk to kids we can find a use for you ” she says.

One of her favorite memories comes from her second trip to Romania where she bonded with a wheelchair recipient over a shared love of crocheting.  “We didn’t speak the same language and she was much older than me but we just hit it off ” she explains. When Jaclyn returned the next year she had a gift for the woman. “I sewed a blanket for her and this time when I found her she was still crocheting but she was moving around in her new wheelchair instead of sitting in her bed.”

The post International Ministries in Romania appeared first on Hope Haven.