The Right Direction

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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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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In this blog we share what DSP & Shuttle Driver Robin loves about her job. Robin has been an employee out of Worthington MN since 1989. Keep reading below to learn more about Robin in her interview!

How did you come to be in your position? Did you seek it out or fall into it by happy accident?

I was looking for a job 30 years ago and saw the ad in the newspaper.  I thought it would be fun.  I really did not know what I was applying for or had any idea about what I would be doing.

What gifts do you bring to your role?

I am a pretty patient person and just by doing my job I am making a difference in a persons life.

What lessons have you learned since working at Hope Haven?

Just gained a better understanding that everyone wants to be treated as an individual and if you do that you will be better received.

What is your favorite part of your job?

In the mornings when I pick them up their day is sort of determined by that first interaction.  I always try to greet them with a smile and engage them in small talk to get their day started off in the right direction.  I also often times redirect them in a different direction if they had not had a good start at their home or apartment.  This is also quality time before the work starts. 

What is your favorite part of your workday?

Observing the employee being able to independently complete a task and master a skill that I trained them in. 

What’s the hardest part of your job?

Trying to be fair and equal with everyone that I supervise and meet their needs/demands but also getting the work done in a timely manner.

What is your day not complete without?

Knowing that the workers are safe and happy.

If you were training a new team member what advice would you give them?

To be patient and do not judge.  Everyone is an individual and are here for a reason.  Look for the worker’s strengths and focus on those and work around them.  Forget about the weaknesses. 

Name three things on your bucket list.

1. Get out of debt before I retire

2. Spend the winter months down south.

3. Open a cat shelter.

 

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