Meet Corey

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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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 .
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It’s a Wednesday around lunch time at West Sioux Community School in Hawarden IA. Corey VanBochove is early to his shift in the janitorial department preparing to do some deep cleaning around the school. Peering into the cafeteria kitchen he offers an exuberant recognition of “Miss Patty!” to one of the staff. He warmly greets teachers and administration as he makes his way through his tasks beaming with excitement at each person he encounters. He then dutifully begins a routine of vacuuming cleaning the library and gymnasium sweeping the floors taking out the trash among other responsibilities.

Rewind a few minutes and Corey’s demeanor was much different. Corey’s nature is a bit more reserved but walking into work – he immediately lights up.  “Work is a good social outlet for Corey ” affirms My Choice Transition Specialist Shay Davis. “You can see that he is proud of what he does.” What was life like for Corey before his job at the school? Corey graduated from West Sioux Community School a few years ago and was searching for a vocation that matched his abilities and talents. Without a program like My Choice Corey was unfortunately facing difficulties in securing competitive employment on his own .

Corey became an active My Choice participant in September 2018. My Choice Employment is Hope Haven’s community-based integrated employment service option for youth and adults in Northwest Iowa. This program helps link up potential employers with prospective employees providing a beneficial connection for both parties. Corey is not alone – there is an evident need for this service in Northwest Iowa and Southwest Minnesota with over 300 individuals obtaining competitive employment through the My Choice program since its inception in 2013.

How did Corey find his job at West Sioux? Shay aided Corey in assessing his abilities ultimately considering a janitorial job and if it was something Corey could pursue should he desire to. Shay then worked with the West Sioux Community School administration to determine if Corey would be a good fit for their needs and Corey interviewed in April 2019. Today it’s clear that this match has been valuable for both parties. “I think everybody in this school knows Corey ” comments West Sioux Community School Principal Travis Popken “He’s a joy to have come through.” Janitor Brad Hofland is also appreciative for Corey’s assistance each week: “It frees up my schedule. It’s been a great help to me.” Corey began work at West Sioux in May 2019 and he now works Mondays Wednesdays and Fridays.

What’s next for Corey and the My Choice program? Corey and his My Choice support staff have found success in Corey’s current job setup but have considered the option of expanding Corey’s schedule to include added days and shifts. Additionally Corey’s progress may mean that he could work more independently and require less management from his Job Coach. Corey’s joy about his employment and the reciprocation by the school is summed up by his Job Coach Kelly Vanderpol: “It’s heartwarming to witness Corey being enfolded at West Sioux.”

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