One Day Niche

01/26/2026

Today, our room was filled with quiet concentration, soft conversations, and the beautiful sound of creativity in motion. Side by side with the Helping Inspire Students – Creative Academy group, our participants picked up oil pastels and began turning blank pages into something meaningful — choosing colors, tracing lines, and carefully filling in each picture with their own personal touch.

Some took their time, studying every section before adding color. Others jumped right in, layering bold shades and smiling as their pictures came to life. There were moments of encouragement shared across the tables, proud smiles when a picture was finished, and excited voices saying, “Look what I made.” Every piece of art told a story of effort, focus, and growing confidence.

For many of our adults and children with special needs, staying with a project, following steps, and expressing creativity are important life skills — and today, they did just that. What may seem like a simple art activity was actually a powerful moment of independence, self-expression, and accomplishment.

This is why days like today matter. Not because the pictures were perfect, but because the process built patience, belief, and connection. It reminded each participant that their work matters, their effort matters, and they are capable of more than they sometimes realize.

We are truly thankful for partnerships like Helping Inspire Students – Creative Academy that pour into our program and help create experiences where growth feels joyful and encouragement feels constant.

“May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us — yes, establish the work of our hands.” — Psalm 90:17
Today, we saw that work — and the hearts behind it — beautifully established. 💛

Helping Inspire Students - Creative Academy

01/25/2026

❄️ Winter Weather and Faith ❄️

This week, the cold weather has been keeping us on our toes! Sometimes plans change, outings get postponed, or indoor activities take over—but even in the unexpected, there’s joy to be found.

At One Day Niche, we’ve seen our amazing adults with special needs adapt with patience, laughter, and courage. Watching them embrace change reminds us that life isn’t always about the perfect plan—it’s about trusting God’s guidance and finding light in every moment.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

Even on the coldest, snowiest days, our hearts are warmed by their smiles, resilience, and the small victories we share together. Winter may shift our schedules, but it cannot freeze the joy, growth, and love we experience each day.

Let’s embrace the season, stay safe, and trust God’s plans—even when life feels like a snowstorm. 💙

01/22/2026

❄️Weather Update ❄️

One Day Niche will be closed Thursday, January 22, 2026 due to inclement weather. Stay safe and stay warm.

01/20/2026

❄️ Due to inclement weather, One Day Niche Day Program will be closed Tuesday, January 20, 2026. Stay safe and stay warm. ❄️

01/19/2026

❄️ Weather Update ❄️

One Day Niche Program will be open tomorrow, January 19th!

Out of an abundance of caution due to weather conditions, we will not be offering transportation tomorrow.

Thank you for your flexibility and continued support. Stay warm and safe!

01/16/2026

One Day Niche group walked into this outing with a mix of excitement, nerves, and curiosity — not knowing exactly how the day would unfold, but ready to give it a try. By the end, there were smiles that stayed, laughter that filled the room, and a confidence you could see in the way they stood a little taller and cheered a little louder.

Some were quiet at first. Some needed encouragement. Some surprised themselves with what they were able to do. Every single one of them reminded us how powerful it is when someone is simply given a chance. It was filled with courage, laughter, and moments that reminded us why inclusion truly matters. From the first roll of the ball to the final high-five, our participants showed determination, joy, and pride in every step they took. What may seem like a simple outing to some became a powerful reminder that everyone deserves chances to try, to grow, and to be celebrated.

What stood out most wasn’t the activity itself, but the way they supported each other. The cheering. The clapping. The way one person’s success became everyone’s celebration. These are the moments that build confidence and remind someone that they are not alone.

For too many adults with special needs, days like this are rare. Opportunities to get out, to be included, to try new things, and to feel part of their community are not always easy to find. And that breaks our hearts, because everyone deserves to feel joy, connection, and purpose in their everyday life.

That’s why One Day Niche is here. We are here to create more days that feel like this — days where people are seen, supported, and encouraged to believe in themselves. Days that remind them they matter.
And we can’t do it without help. Your support and donations is what allows these moments to keep happening. More importantly, it turns into hope for someone who truly needs it.

When you give, you are helping write more stories like today — stories of courage, belonging, and people realizing they are capable of more than they ever imagined.

Thank you to everyone who continues to believe in this mission and the incredible people we serve. Your support is felt in every smile, every cheer, and every proud moment we witness. 🧡

01/14/2026

Just a reminder to slow down and soak in the moments that matter. It was filled with courage, laughter, and pure joy — and that’s what One Day Niche is all about

01/13/2026

On this One Day Niche community outing, our group spent the day at the YMCA, turning an ordinary swim into a meaningful experience of connection, confidence, and joy. For some participants, it was about building comfort in the water. For others, it was the excitement of being with friends and trying something new in a safe, supportive space.

Laughter echoed across the pool as encouragement was shared, small victories were celebrated, and everyone moved at their own pace. Staff were right there, offering guidance, cheering on progress, and making sure each person felt included and supported. What may look like a simple swim day was actually an opportunity for independence, social growth, and confidence-building.

By the end of the outing, tired smiles and proud faces told the real story. It wasn’t just about swimming — it was about showing up, being brave, and belonging to a community that celebrates every step forward. Days like this remind us that growth happens not only in big milestones, but in shared moments that make people feel seen, capable, and connected.

01/04/2026

It is with deep sadness that we share about the passing of one of our staff's dad.

Day program will still be on for Wednesday.

Please keep Kenda and her family in your prayers as they navigate through the next few days and weeks.

View Leon E. Tawney's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/01/2026

Happy New Year

2025 was a year of Growth...
2026 here we come!

12/27/2025

On behalf of everyone at One Day Niche, I want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your generous support. Your contribution does more than meet a need — it strengthens the foundation of a community built on belonging, dignity, and everyday care.

Over the past year, your belief in our mission has helped us grow in remarkable ways. It has been incredible the achievements we made this year, and it would not have been possible without your contribution. Here is a brief look at the impact donors like you have made possible:

Day Program Growth:
Last year, we averaged 8 individuals a day in our program. Today, we are averaging 13 individuals per day — nearly a 40% increase.

Staff Expansion:
We ended last year with 6 staff members. We now have 25+ team members supporting our houses and day program.

Residential Progress:
One year ago, we had zero residents. Today, we are operating two houses and caring for four residents who now have a place to belong. This includes care for both high needs individuals, as well as a residence for adults working to live independently.

Transportation Services:
We have recently acquired 2 additional vehicles that we use to transport individuals both to and from the ‘hub’, and to activities and events in Grand Rapids. This brings us to 4 separate vehicles we utilize daily for care.

A Place to Call Home:
Through community support, we were able to purchase a property — a significant milestone. While we continue to pay on the loan, it is a place our individuals and team can truly call home.

These numbers reflect something deeper: lives becoming more stable, individuals receiving meaningful connection, and a community growing stronger around them.

As we look ahead, we are excited to build on this momentum.

Our goals for the coming year include:

1- Continued expansion of our day program and additional programming

2 - Launching a farm-based program involving animals, outdoor care, and therapeutic activities

3 - Developing a day program specifically for children under 18

4 - Increasing volunteer support to enrich daily life for our individuals

Your generosity helps fuel every step of this growth. It ensures that our individuals experience independence, engagement, structure, and the sense of family that defines One Day Niche. We are deeply grateful that you have chosen to partner with us in this work.

Click here (https://onedayniche.org/donate-to-one-day-niche/) to give and continue to partner with us.

Thank you again for your commitment to our mission and for believing in the people we serve. We look forward to sharing more stories of impact with you as we continue moving forward.

With sincere appreciation,

Alison Haraburda, Founder and the rest of the One Day Niche team.