The Role of Local Disability Services in Empowering PWDs

A Place to Call Home

By 7017444915 • October 1, 2025
For the past eight years, our Orange City My Day program has known what it feels like to be without a home. We bounced from one rental space to another—sometimes staying only six months, sometimes a year. None of those spaces were truly designed for the people we serve. And every time we had to move again, our members’ anxiety grew. Thanks to our generous supporters, that all changed this past spring. We built a new multipurpose facility, complete with accessible restrooms, a full kitchen, ample storage, and room to grow. Connected to our wheelchair workshop, it not only provides a permanent home for our members but also gives them meaningful ways to contribute to our ministry. As Hailey Lewis, the Orange City My Day Lead, shared when she first walked inside: “I love it. The colors, the rustic look, it’s beautiful. But more than that, it’s home.” Our members agree. Colin grinned and said, “There’s lots of stuff to do!” From cooking projects in the kitchen, to playing games, to volunteering in the workshop, this new home has sparked joy for the entire group. But most importantly, it has brought them peace. The constant stress of moving and the worry about accessibility and functional amenities is finally all behind them. Hailey shared, “If I put something in a box, a couple of my members ask, ‘Are we moving again?’ And I get to remind them, no. This is permanent, this is forever. Having their forever home here has minimized their anxiety, they don’t have to worry about anything. Now, they can just focus on themselves, and that has changed everything for them.” In this new season for the Orange City My Day program, we are reminded of God’s promise in Isaiah 32:18: “My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest.” Supporters like you make it possible for us to continue our mission of creating spaces where individuals with disabilities can find community and purpose, and the opportunity to thrive. Will you consider a gift today to continue blessing individuals in programs like My Day with the security and stability they deserve? If you wish to contribute, please CLICK HERE to donate today. At Hope Haven, we exten d 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

Russell Dickerson Concert

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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Empowering Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) requires a multifaceted approach, and local disability services are pivotal in this endeavor. Through tailored support and advocacy, these community-centered services play a crucial role in helping PWDs navigate societal challenges. By facilitating access to resources, education, and employment, local disability services both enrich lives and promote inclusivity. In this post, we will explore how these vital services contribute to empowering PWDs, highlighting the importance of personalized support and community involvement.


Resources 

Local disability services often serve as the first point of contact for PWDs seeking assistance, offering an array of essential resources. These services provide personalized assistance that addresses individual needs, allowing PWDs to overcome specific obstacles they may face. For instance, they facilitate access to adaptive technologies, home modifications, and transportation services. By removing logistical barriers, they enable greater participation in community life. The tailored support these services provide is instrumental in fostering independence and self-sufficiency among PWDs.


Opportunities 

Additionally, local disability services play a critical role in enabling educational and employment opportunities for PWDs. Educational programs and vocational training tailored to the needs of individuals facilitate skill development and foster economic independence. Despite the challenges, local services work to break down employment barriers, acknowledging that, according to UN Women, women with disabilities are two times less likely to be employed compared to their male counterparts without disabilities. By collaborating with employers and advocating for inclusive hiring practices, these services are crucial in leveling the playing field in the job market.


Engagement 

Community engagement is another area where local disability services make a significant impact. They organize events and advocate for policies that raise awareness about disability issues, working towards destigmatizing disabilities in society. These efforts help to cultivate an inclusive community spirit, encouraging greater interaction and understanding between PWDs and those without disabilities. Such initiatives not only empower PWDs but also help to foster an inclusive and supportive community culture, where diversity is celebrated and embraced.


Local disability services are essential in empowering Persons with Disabilities by providing the resources, education, and advocacy necessary for overcoming barriers and achieving independence. Their efforts in removing obstacles and promoting inclusivity lay the foundation for an equitable society. As communities continue to support and invest in these services, we take significant strides towards a future where PWDs are empowered to lead fulfilling and autonomous lives.


Take the next step in supporting a more inclusive community—reach out to Hope Haven to learn how our local disability services can empower individuals with disabilities through personalized care, education, and advocacy. Together, we can build a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.