When twelve-year-old Austin first came to Hope Haven, life was hard for him. He struggled with self-regulation and frequent behavioral outbursts. He wasn’t able to participate in his own care, and he often became so overwhelmed that he was sent home from school or activities. Medically, Austin relied on a G-tube for all his medications and nutrition and would only drink milk out of an infant’s bottle. Socially, he didn’t engage well with peers or participate in play. Each day came with challenges, but beneath it all was a young boy with tremendous potential and people who refused to give up on him. One of those people is Harley Roosa, a Community Living Supervisor in Storm Lake who has worked with Austin for more than three years. “There were some really long days,” Harley shared, “but we started each day new. We didn’t give up on him. We kept pushing him to be better and do better.” With consistent support and encouragement, Austin began to make remarkable progress. Speech therapy and predictable routines helped him find stability, and before long, he was speaking in full sentences. He learned to take his medications by mouth, began tasting food for the first time, and even started reading. Most beautiful of all, Austin began to connect with others, playing games with peers and showing genuine care for the people around him. Today, Austin is caring, passionate, resilient, and full of joy. He expresses his feelings, talks about what he enjoys, and lights up when he sees familiar faces. “Austin is stigma-breaking,” Harley said. “He’s shown us that if you want to, you can grow into an amazing, self-regulated, caring, and outgoing person within a short time.” Austin’s journey truly reflects Hope Haven’s vision—a community devoted to the special creation of God that is the human being. Here, we value each person’s gifts and potential, and walk beside them as they learn, grow, and discover their purpose. Guided by faith, we help children like Austin build confidence and independence through the realization of their God-given abilities. In this season of gratitude and giving, we are reminded of God’s promise in Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” When you give, you become part of that transformation, helping children like Austin grow into the best version of themselves. Will you consider a gift today to continue blessing children in Hope Haven’s care with the support and compassion they deserve? 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.

March 27, 2026