JD’s Creations

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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In today’s blog we’re sharing JD’s story. JD is part of the Hope Haven community and here he recounts how he discovered his passion for welding through “JD’s Creations”…

Hi my name is JD Bumgarner and I have Cerebral Palsy and a learning disability but that has not stopped me from finding my passion which is being creative.

I have always been interested in designing and drawing things.  Even when I was little I would help my Dad put things together without having to look at the directions which is a good thing since I have trouble reading.  School and learning especially math reading and writing have always been hard for me because of my Cerebral Palsy which is a brain injury.  Cerebral Palsy because it is a brain injury makes it harder for me to process information quickly which is why my favorite types of classes have always been art classes where I get to use my creativity.  I enjoy finding new ways of being creative and was excited to discover welding.

I started to weld as part of the 4H Bucket of Junk Challenge a few years ago.  The first piece I created was one that I called “Herky or Cy?”.  My parents were in awe of what I created out of a bucket of junk.

The next year I created a Beagle and a bunny.  And most recently I created a tractor from the bucket of junk.

My parents already knew that I was very creative and good at designing things on paper but now I had a new way to be creative through welding.  I have learned that my brain works differently which isn’t a bad thing because it helps me see and create art out of buckets of junk.  I like to think that I am giving new life to junk that would have been thrown away. 

My parents bought me a welder and welding equipment for Christmas which I started to use right away.  Once Covid 19 hit and schools were cancelled I started welding even more.  I took one of my first pieces the “Iron Indian” to the high school art show at Arts on Grand and it won the “Curator’s Choice Award” and was the first piece of art that I sold.  I am blessed to have supportive parents who encourage and help me use my creativity. 

I came to live with my Mom and Dad when I was 27 months old as part of the foster care system.  My biological sister Chloe and I were adopted by them a few years later.  I also have a younger brother Nate and two beagles at home. My entire family enjoys helping me with my welding. My Mom created a Facebook page called JD’s Creations and posts and sells my pieces there. Both my Mom and Dad help me polish and clean the pieces of junk before and after I weld them.  I’ve even taught my Mom younger sister and brother to weld.  I really enjoy working with my family on my different projects – it has brought us all closer together. I am very blessed and thankful that I get to do what I love.

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