Key to Success

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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Three years ago life looked much different for Gabe Banwart.  Diagnosed with schizophrenia anxiety disorder and ADHD Gabe was homeless and deep in the throes of drug addiction.  He had tried different treatment programs but had not experienced success.  Life felt erratic and the daily struggles were overwhelming. 

Through the grace of God Gabe is in a different place today. “Hope Haven helped me get it together.  It changed my life ” he explains.  Gabe participates in Key to Success (KTS)  a program of intensive psychiatric rehabilitation with the goal of role recovery as the focus of the intervention.  

According to Jenna Ramirez Gabe’s IPR Practitioner with KTS  Gabe has thrived in the program.  “The first time I met him I had my doubts. He didn’t like authority but I give everyone a chance. Through the program he’s met others with similar symptoms.  I think it’s comforting for participants to be around others who have experienced the same things.” In addition to interacting with others in the program  Gabe appreciates Jenna’s ability to understand and listen. “Jenna really gets down to our level to help us she sits with us and talks with us ” he notes.   

Gabe participates in KTS two mornings a week meeting both individually and in groups.  He enjoys spending time with the close friends he’s made through KTS and is approaching the two year mark with his employment at Dunham Sporting Goods in Spencer Iowa. One of Gabe’s goals is to get his own place to live and he’s getting closer to making that a reality.  A hopeful future is a new feeling for Gabe and he credits KTS with helping him write this chapter of his story.  When asked about the impact KTS has had on him he sums it up pretty simply: “It saved my life.” 

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