Pathway to Employment: My Day Updates

By 7017444915 May 29, 2026
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” Colossians 3:23 For many years, Ryan made his living as a truck driver. It was work he knew well, but when health concerns made it necessary for him to make a change, he found himself facing an uncertain future. In March of 2024, Ryan was referred to Hope Haven through Vocational Rehabilitation Services for help finding meaningful employment. Like many people starting over, the path was not immediate or easy. Ryan and his employment specialist explored many different opportunities, but the right fit had not yet come along. Then, in April of 2025, BioVerse entered the picture. BioVerse had partnered with Hope Haven before, both through in-house production work and by welcoming individuals on-site to help with production needs. When they began looking for an office assistant, Ryan came to mind. Although he had never worked in an office role, he had basic computer knowledge, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn. A work trial was arranged, and almost immediately, it became clear that Ryan and BioVerse were a perfect match. Since joining the team, Ryan has become an important part of BioVerse’s daily operations. His supervisor, Lori Henning, shared that Ryan has shown “a rare combination of technical curiosity and a can-do work ethic.” He has embraced new technology, including AI, to help solve software challenges, and when production needs increased, he stepped onto the manufacturing floor without hesitation. Lori wrote, “He hasn’t just filled a role; he has enriched our company culture and reminded us of the value of a truly dedicated partner.” For Ryan, this opportunity was not simply about finding a new job. It was about finding a place where his skills could shine in a new way. His story shows us that when people are connected with meaningful work, they do more than just fill a role. They strengthen an entire workplace. Your support helps open the door for people like Ryan. Because of your generosity, Hope Haven can continue building partnerships with local employers and help people find places where their skills and strengths are truly valued. 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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Our “My Day” program (formerly known as “Day Habilitation”) is designed to enable an individual to enrich his or her life and enjoy a full range of community engagement by providing opportunities for developing enhancing and maintaining competency in personal social and community activities.

The Iowa Department of Human Services recently made an amendment to the rules governing  Day Habilitation. The purpose of this was to clarify that day habilitation services may provide a pathway to employment. The amendment clarified that activities provided through day habilitation to assist members in participating in the community developing social roles and responsibilities and increasing independence can now also  include the potential for employment. These new rules went into effect Feb 1 2021.

All staff providing My Day services will now complete additional training in adherence with the new rules. Our staff have completed training in the areas of person centered planning job readiness skills and community inclusion. Examples of  employment driven activities include: Volunteering for non profit organizations connected to potential career interests workplace visits/tours soft skill development (dressing for work social interactions at work time management) and community integration experiences to support fuller participation in community life.  

We want to continue to think work for all members participating in the My Day programs and that those having aspirations to work will be able to have that dream realized.  We strive to be an outcome focused program and that outcome supports a person to become a valued member of the community or part of a community group or leads to a volunteer opportunity or leads to employment.