Fishing Benefit

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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June 5, 2026

Join us for the 28th Annual Hope Haven Fishing Benefit on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Big Spirit Lake in Spirit Lake, Iowa, for a full day of fishing, fun, and meaningful impact. The event runs from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.


This year brings an exciting change with a new location at Big Spirit Lake, giving participants a fresh setting to enjoy a day on the water while supporting Hope Haven’s disability services and international ministries.


The entry fee is $60, and kids 16 and under fish free. Anglers will have the chance to compete for prizes in men’s, women’s, and kids’ divisions, and every participant will receive a gift just for entering.


One especially fun bonus this year is that the event falls on Iowa’s Free Fishing Day, which means no fishing license is required for Iowa residents. It is a great chance to invite friends or family members to join in, whether they fish every weekend or just want an excuse to spend a good day at the lake for a good cause.


After a day on the water, participants are invited to gather at Memorial Park at 4:00 p.m. for a light meal, as well as the weigh-in and awards. It is the perfect way to wrap up the day, celebrate the winners, and enjoy the community that makes this event so special.


Since it began in 1998, the Fishing Benefit has raised more than $150,000, bringing together supporters from across the region to enjoy a little friendly competition while helping advance Hope Haven’s mission.


Whether you are in it for the prizes, the cause, or just the excuse to be on the lake, the Hope Haven Fishing Benefit is a great way to kick off the summer and make a difference while you’re at it. Register by Thursday, June 4 to be eligible for prizes.


To register, contact Brenda Gisolf at 712-476-3116 or bgisolf@hopehaven.org


Link to Iowa 2026 Fishing Regulations HERE