Navigating New Routines

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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If you’ve ever lived with a roommate you know it can often take time to find a rhythm.  That hasn’t been an issue for the three new occupants of a home in Spencer Iowa. While the women knew of each other from Hope Haven Day Hab activities they had never lived together. In fact  all three girls moved directly from their parents’ homes. 

In the month since they’ve been together however they’ve quickly built traditions. Sunday is movie and popcorn night Monday is their grocery day and on Wednesdays they go out to dinner. They coordinate chores and look forward to warmer weather when they can spend time together in their home’s large backyard.  “The girls are adjusting really well and are jumping right in with establishing their own routines ” notes Jasmin Sandoval Community Living Lead. 

House resident Christine Hemann enjoys the perk of having her own space and takes pride in keeping things clean and in their correct place.  In addition to participating in Day Hab five days a week she spends time exercising playing games on the computer and being creative.   

One of Christine’s roommates Allie Mcgruder participates in Special Olympics and Day Hab.  She also works at Pizza Hut through Hope Haven’s My Choice program and loves being out in the community.  “Allie is so social and can make friends with anyone!” affirms Community Living Manager Amanda Morony. 

The home is staffed when the residents are home and although there is one spot open before it is at full capacity they are waiting for the right person.  Explains Sandoval “We want them to find the right match.  The girls get to meet each other and the parents to decide if they want to live together.”  

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