Orange City Groundbreaking Ceremony

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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On Wednesday, October 2, Hope Haven held a ceremony to celebrate the start of construction of a new facility to be completed in March 2025 that will serve multiple purposes. This facility will accommodate the Hope Haven International Ministries volunteer workshop and the My Day program, located on Frankfort Place SE and 16th St in Orange City, IA.    

Since 2020, a team of volunteers in Orange City has worked exclusively on creating the seating parts needed to complete these chairs. Each seat is custom-sewn. “Sewing is a hard skill, but we are willing to help train. Linda Feikema and Sharon Moss were recently in Kenya along with Jerry Dykstra. They taught women who had never sewn or used a sewing machine this valuable skill while Jerry worked to help set up the shop and acquire materials,” said Luke Russell, Hope Haven International Ministries Director.

When the team began in 2020, the output was about 20 seats per month; today, they average 50 seats a week. They began in the back of an old auto parts store located off Highway 10 and recently moved to an industrial garage space at 14th and Frankfort Place SE. 

Jerry Dykstra shares, “The new space will double our workshop space and give us much-needed storage space as we receive products and prepare them for shipment.” He adds, “Our current sewing room is very cramped, and this will allow for more space for sewing and also space to add more machines and volunteers. We are always looking for more volunteers. Volunteers can work one to 15 hours a week.” Volunteers will continue at 14th and Frankfort Place until the new space is complete. For more information or to become a volunteer, email dutchmadeoc@gmail.com or call Jerry Dykstra at 712-441-5967.

THE CURRENT CHALLENGES:
  •  Lack of a permanent space: HHIM – moved 3 times in 5 years and My Day – moved 4 times in 5 years
  • Need extra area for growth: HHIM – 30 volunteers and My Day – 8 residents
  •  Disadvantage of layout and navigation
  • Issue with parking
  • No kitchen area
 
THE NEW MULTIPURPOSE FACILITY WILL PROVIDE:
  •  Future of consistent space
  • Create an intentional work area
  • Solve layout inefficiencies
  • Advantage of ministry growth
  • Partner together in the workshop with the volunteers and My Day residents
INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES
  • Expand capacity of kidchairs
  • Develop more volunteer opportunities
  • Increase community involvement

MY DAY

  • New life skill activities
  • Better access to the community 

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