The HOPEful Connection

Finding a Voice at the Capitol: Disability Rights Legislative Day Recap

When decisions are made at the state level, it is vital that the people most affected have a seat at the table. In this episode of The HOPEful Connection, Danielle Coffey is joined by Emma Odell (Buffalo Excel Program Coordinator) and Kayla Shoop (Warsaw Excel Coordinator) to discuss their experiences taking clients to the Missouri State Capitol. The team shares behind-the-scenes insights into Disability Rights Legislative Day, exploring the logistical challenges of navigating a crowded Capitol and the emotional breakthroughs of clients who realized their opinions truly matter. Key topics include: * The Power of the Rally: How the energy of the crowd helps individuals feel seen and included. * Advocacy vs. Anxiety: Practical tips used by staff to help clients manage overstimulation while still participating in democracy. * The Budget Battle: A look at how personal stories influenced the conversation around Missouri’s waiver services and budget restorations. * Gratitude in Action: Why the team returned for a second day to hand-deliver thank-you notes to supportive legislators. Join us for a conversation about empowerment, the importance of "staying hopeful," and the beauty of seeing a client blossom into a self-advocate. About the Podcast: The HOPEful Connection connects you to the disability community through authentic stories and expert insights. Hosted by Staci Owen, Whitley Lemon, and Danielle Coffey. #TheHOPEfulConnection #DisabilityAdvocacy #MissouriPolitics #ExcelPrograms #RestoringHope

From Host Home to Forever Family | Guest Kathy Jo Glenn with Co-Host Staci Owen

What starts as everyday life… can turn into a forever kind of calling. 🤍 In this episode of The HOPEful Connection, host Staci Owen sits down with Kathy Jo Glenn to share her 10+ year journey as a Host Home. From navigating Missouri’s unpredictable weather 😅 to building a home filled with belonging, growth, and purpose—this conversation is a real look at what it means to open your life to others. ✨ Creating family beyond blood ✨ Walking alongside individuals as they experience life for the first time ✨ The challenges, the beauty, and the lifelong commitment ✨ Why community support is everything Because they don’t know what they haven’t experienced yet… And sometimes, all it takes is someone willing to show them. Welcome to The HOPEful Connection. A podcast that connects you to the disability community. We're your hosts, Staci Owen, Whitley Lemon, and Danielle Coffey. #TheHOPEfulConnection #RestoringHope #HostHomes #CaregivingCommunity #DisabilitySupport #LifeTogether

A Lifeline to Natural Families | Guests Jeremy & Shon Morris with Co-Host Whitley Lemon

Jeremy has been part of Restoring Hope’s respite services since 2023, and he’s got stories to tell! From coloring at Grandma Brenda’s, petting goats, watching Westerns, dancing to country music, and splashing in the pool — respite gives him joy, freedom, and new connections. His brother Shon shares how these services have brought balance and breathing room back to their family after years of full-time caregiving. A touching reminder that respite isn’t just a break — it’s hope and connection for everyone involved. If you'd like to know more about Restoring Hope's Respite Services, visit our website. https://www.werestorehope.com/out-of-home-respite [https://www.werestorehope.com/out-of-home-respite] Welcome to The HOPEful Connection podcast. A resource that connects you to the disability community! Were you're hosts, Danielle Coffey, Staci Owen, and Whitley Lemon.

Intentional Service in Community | Guest Julie Olsen with Co-Host Whitley Lemon

"Real change happens when we see people for who they are, invest intentionally, and let community become family." In this episode of The HOPEful Connection, Whitley Lemon talks with Julie Olson, Program Coordinator of Restoring Hope's Willow Springs Excel Day Program. Julie shares her journey from undergrad at SBU to leading a program built on purpose, inclusion, and intentional service. Highlights include prepping 250 surprise promo bags for Hannah Harper's hometown concert, securing a Rotary grant for a therapy pod with mock coffee shop role-play, deep ties with the Chamber of Commerce, downtown beautification, community garden expansion, and skill-building in cooking, budgeting, hygiene, and outings that spark joy and independence. Julie opens up about overcoming challenges through faith, person-centered support, and ongoing master's studies—proving everyone can excel with the right encouragement. This episode is for anyone passionate about: > Disability day programs and community inclusion > Faith-driven leadership and service > Building purpose through skill-building and advocacy > Advocating at Disability Rights Legislative Day Because real change starts when we show up, see people fully, and let community become family. Welcome to The HOPEful Connection! A podcast that connects you to the disability community. We're your hosts, Danielle Coffey, Staci Owen, and Whitley Lemon.

Heart of Social Work | Guest Aaron Harms with Co-Host Staci Owen

In this episode of The HOPEful Connection, Staci Owen sits down with Aaron Harms to discuss behavioral supports, the honeymoon phase in placements, burnout prevention, and the growth of Restoring Hope’s Medical ISL programs. Aaron shares insights from years in mental health, his role on the behavioral team, and what it takes to build strong DSP teams that create real quality of life for the individuals they serve. This episode highlights teamwork, preparation, and meeting needs as they arise — all centered around belonging in community.