At Cyber Advisors, we believe that giving back isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a core part of who we are. Through our Cyber Day of Service program, employees are encouraged to take a paid day off to volunteer with organizations that matter to them. Whether it’s a local nonprofit, a school event, or a cause close to the heart, we want our team to feel empowered to make a difference.
For Ean Grave, that opportunity meant returning to a place that holds deep personal meaning: Hope Agency in Des Moines, Iowa.
Ean’s connection to Hope Agency is more than professional—it’s personal. As the father of a daughter with autism, he’s seen firsthand the impact that organizations like Hope Agency can have on individuals and families navigating the world of developmental disabilities.
“Hope Agency works with adults who have autism or other cognitive disabilities,” Ean explained. “They help them learn life skills—how to grocery shop, balance a checkbook, find a job, and even participate in Special Olympics. It’s all about helping them live independently and confidently.”
Ean was once a board member at Hope Agency and has remained a dedicated supporter ever since. Even after moving away from Des Moines, he continues to stay involved, donating through his workplace and showing up for events whenever he can.
This year, Ean used his Cyber Day of Service to volunteer at Hope Agency’s annual 5K walk—a community event that brings together participants, families, staff, and supporters for a day of celebration, inclusion, and fundraising.
The event is one of the agency’s largest fundraisers, a acording to Ean "it’s one of the most meaningful". It’s a chance for participants to shine, for families to connect, and for the community to rally around a shared mission.
Ean’s involvement started the day before the walk. “On Friday, we set up the walking path,” he said. “Each participant had their own sign with a photo and a little bio where they work, what Special Olympics events they do, what they’ve accomplished. It was really moving to see all of that laid out.”
He also helped clean up the path to ensure it was safe and accessible for everyone. On the day of the event, he checked in volunteers, managed water stations, and participated in the 5k himself.
“It’s not just about logistics,” Ean said. “It’s about being present. Talking to the people I’ve known for years. Hearing about their jobs, their sports, their favorite teams. It’s like no time has passed.”
One of the most touching moments for Ean was realizing how many people remembered him, even though he doesn’t get to attend every event.
“I don’t make it down to Des Moines as often as I’d like,” he admitted. “But when I do, it’s like we pick up right where we left off. They remember me, and I remember them. It’s a community that sticks with you.”
That sense of belonging and continuity is what keeps Ean coming back. It’s not just about volunteering, it’s about being part of something bigger than yourself.
Ean’s daughter, who inspired his involvement with Hope Agency, is an active participant in the Special Olympics. “She does almost every sport there is,” he said proudly. “Right now, she’s getting ready for bowling season. Districts and state are both in November.”
And she’s not just participating, she’s excelling. “She’s won her division the last two years,” Ean shared.
Ean was pleasantly surprised to learn that Cyber Advisors offered a Day of Service benefit and even more surprised that it could be used for an out-of-state organization.
“I wasn’t sure it would be approved since Hope Agency is in Iowa,” he said. “But I was thrilled when I found out it was. It shows that Cyber Advisors really cares about what’s important to us as individuals.”
That flexibility and support meant the world to Ean. “I’ve never worked for a company that offers something like this,” he said. “It’s not just about work it’s about being part of a company that values people.”
Hope Agency may be based in Des Moines, but its impact (and the impact of volunteers like Ean) reaches far beyond city limits. By supporting adults with disabilities, the organization is helping build a more inclusive, compassionate world.
And by giving employees the time and space to serve, Cyber Advisors is helping build a workplace culture rooted in empathy, action, and community.
“Our Day of Service program was created because we know that meaningful volunteer opportunities don’t always happen on weekends,” said Lillian Walker, Engagement Coordinator at Cyber Advisors. “Sometimes they happen on a Tuesday morning, or a Thursday afternoon. We want our team to be able to show up for the causes that matter to them, whenever and wherever that may be.”
Ean’s story is a reminder that service doesn’t have to be grand to be meaningful. Sometimes, it’s as simple as showing up, listening, and walking beside someone.
We’re proud to support employees like Ean who use their Cyber Day of Service to make a real difference and build their communities up. Whether it’s across the street or across state lines, we believe in showing up for the communities that matter most.