About Us
Empowering Lives
Opening Doors is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting women and children experiencing homelessness. We empower individuals by providing goal-setting and life skills training, enabling them to achieve their full potential. Our approach offers a hand up, not a handout.
Since 2000, Opening Doors has served thousands of women and children through a comprehensive continuum of services.
- Teresa Shelter offers emergency and extended stay programs.
- Maria House provides transitional housing for up to two years.
- Francis Apartments offers income-based affordable housing with supportive services, a proven combination that helps break the cycle of homelessness.
Mission Statement
Empowering women and their children by providing shelter and personalized support to find healing, hope, and home.
Vision
Help all unhoused women and their children achieve independence and confidence.
Our Values
- Compassion – We foster a team-oriented, welcoming environment where women and children are treated with dignity and respect. We meet individuals where they are, offering a listening ear, accountability, and personalized support.
- Empowerment – We believe in the inherent strength and potential of every woman. Through structured programming and supportive services, we help women realize their capabilities, building confidence and fostering their growth as contributing members of society.
- Opportunity – At Opening Doors, we are committed to offering more than just shelter. Through life skills education, case management, and valuable resources, we help women build a foundation for a brighter future.
- Inclusiveness – We celebrate diversity and honor the uniqueness of each woman’s journey. We create an environment that embraces individuals from all backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life, ensuring equal access to services and making sure every woman feels valued and understood as she works toward stability and independence.
Community – We are deeply embedded in our local community and collaborate with partners to provide holistic support. These partnerships equip women with the resources they need to build stable and fulfilling lives.
✨Wrapping up Women’s History Month with gratitude!
Meet our current Board President, Katie McClain, AVP, Human Resources at @dupaco ! Katie first joined Opening Doors as a committee member before transitioning onto the Board, where she continues to make a lasting impact.
Her passion for our mission and her willingness to go the extra mile for our board and team is truly a gift. Thank you, Katie, and our entire team for empowering women, changing lives, and creating hope, healing, and home for our residents. 🏡
#WomensHistoryMonth #Gratitude #Leadership #OpeningDoorsDBQ #EmpowerChangeHope
🎥 @kodiak_creative
✨Wrapping up Women’s History Month with gratitude!
Meet our current Board President, Katie McClain, AVP, Human Resources at @dupaco ! Katie first joined Opening Doors as a committee member before transitioning onto the Board, where she continues to make a lasting impact.
Her passion for our mission and her willingness to go the extra mile for our board and team is truly a gift. Thank you, Katie, and our entire team for empowering women, changing lives, and creating hope, healing, and home for our residents. 🏡
#WomensHistoryMonth #Gratitude #Leadership #OpeningDoorsDBQ #EmpowerChangeHope
🎥 @kodiak_creative
Sunshine and Smiles: A Beautiful Day at the Shelter
Today, the sun is shining bright, and so are the smiles at our shelter! 😎 We’re grateful for the gorgeous weather and the uplifting energy it brings to our residents and staff.
These moments of joy and warmth remind us of the importance of cherishing the simple pleasures in life and finding hope even in the face of challenges.
Here’s to brighter days ahead for all!
#SunshineAndSmiles #HopeAndHappiness #ShelterLife #StrongerTogether
Sunshine and Smiles: A Beautiful Day at the Shelter
Today, the sun is shining bright, and so are the smiles at our shelter! 😎 We’re grateful for the gorgeous weather and the uplifting energy it brings to our residents and staff.
These moments of joy and warmth remind us of the importance of cherishing the simple pleasures in life and finding hope even in the face of challenges.
Here’s to brighter days ahead for all!
#SunshineAndSmiles #HopeAndHappiness #ShelterLife #StrongerTogether
✨ A Heartfelt Thank You! ✨
Opening Doors is incredibly grateful to the @dbqhba and their board for welcoming us back to the Homebuilders EXPO this year! Your continued support provides us with an amazing opportunity to share our mission and connect with our community.
A huge shoutout to our incredible volunteers—your dedication and hard work make all of this possible. We truly couldn’t do it without you!
Together, we are building more than just homes—we are building hope. 🏡💫
#ThankYou #CommunitySupport #OpeningDoorsDBQ #HomebuildersEXPO #buildinghope
✨ A Heartfelt Thank You! ✨
Opening Doors is incredibly grateful to the @dbqhba and their board for welcoming us back to the Homebuilders EXPO this year! Your continued support provides us with an amazing opportunity to share our mission and connect with our community.
A huge shoutout to our incredible volunteers—your dedication and hard work make all of this possible. We truly couldn’t do it without you!
Together, we are building more than just homes—we are building hope. 🏡💫
#ThankYou #CommunitySupport #OpeningDoorsDBQ #HomebuildersEXPO #buildinghope
Welcoming Our Spring Interns at Opening Doors!
We are incredibly grateful for our amazing Spring 2025 interns who are dedicating their time, skills, and passion to support the women and children we serve. Their hard work not only strengthens our mission but also builds a bridge between our organization and the next generation of change-makers in social work and advocacy.
A huge thank you to our local partner schools— @clarkeuniversity , @lorascollege , the @universityofdubuque , and @stambroseuniversity —for shaping these talented students and for fostering a culture of service and learning. The impact of these partnerships extends beyond our shelter, creating a strong foundation for future leaders in social work, advocacy, and beyond.
These incredible interns are not just learning—they are actively making a difference! Thank you for your dedication to Opening Doors and for contributing to a stronger, more connected community. 👏🫶🏼
#OpeningDoorsDBQ #SpringInterns #FutureLeaders #CommunityImpact #ThankYou
Welcoming Our Spring Interns at Opening Doors!
We are incredibly grateful for our amazing Spring 2025 interns who are dedicating their time, skills, and passion to support the women and children we serve. Their hard work not only strengthens our mission but also builds a bridge between our organization and the next generation of change-makers in social work and advocacy.
A huge thank you to our local partner schools— @clarkeuniversity , @lorascollege , the @universityofdubuque , and @stambroseuniversity —for shaping these talented students and for fostering a culture of service and learning. The impact of these partnerships extends beyond our shelter, creating a strong foundation for future leaders in social work, advocacy, and beyond.
These incredible interns are not just learning—they are actively making a difference! Thank you for your dedication to Opening Doors and for contributing to a stronger, more connected community. 👏🫶🏼
#OpeningDoorsDBQ #SpringInterns #FutureLeaders #CommunityImpact #ThankYou
📢 Urgent Need: Paper Products Donation Request!
Opening Doors is in need of essential paper products—Kleenex, toilet paper, and paper towels—to support the women and children we serve daily. With a constant flow of residents, our supplies are running low.
You can help by:
🛍️ Donating directly – Drop off items at our admin office: 2100 Asbury Rd, Ste 8, Dubuque, IA
📦 Shipping via our Amazon Wish List – Have items sent directly to our shelter for convenience!
Every donation, big or small, makes a huge difference. Thank you for helping us provide comfort and care to those in need! ❤️
#OpeningDoorsDBQ #SupportWomen #DonationRequest #CommunityMatters
📢 Urgent Need: Paper Products Donation Request!
Opening Doors is in need of essential paper products—Kleenex, toilet paper, and paper towels—to support the women and children we serve daily. With a constant flow of residents, our supplies are running low.
You can help by:
🛍️ Donating directly – Drop off items at our admin office: 2100 Asbury Rd, Ste 8, Dubuque, IA
📦 Shipping via our Amazon Wish List – Have items sent directly to our shelter for convenience!
Every donation, big or small, makes a huge difference. Thank you for helping us provide comfort and care to those in need! ❤️
#OpeningDoorsDBQ #SupportWomen #DonationRequest #CommunityMatters
Women’s History Month Spotlight: Mira Mosle @bvmsisters
At Opening Doors, we are honored to continue celebrating the incredible women who have shaped our mission. Today, we recognize Mira Mosle, BVM, a dedicated community advocate and Board Secretary/Treasurer, representing the Sisters of Charity, BVM.
For over seven years, Mira has been a steadfast supporter, helping to guide our organization with wisdom, compassion, and commitment. The religious sisters in our community have been a driving force behind our mission—offering financial, emotional, and physical support from every angle.
We are deeply grateful for the women who have paved the way for us, shaping the foundation of Opening Doors and making a lasting impact on the lives of the women and children we serve. ❤️
Join us in celebrating Mira and all the incredible women making a difference!
🎥 @kodiak_creative
#WomensHistoryMonth #OpeningDoorsDBQ #CommunityAdvocate #WomenWhoInspire #dubuquenonprofit #homelesswomenandchildren #dubuquehomelesshelter
Women’s History Month Spotlight: Mira Mosle @bvmsisters
At Opening Doors, we are honored to continue celebrating the incredible women who have shaped our mission. Today, we recognize Mira Mosle, BVM, a dedicated community advocate and Board Secretary/Treasurer, representing the Sisters of Charity, BVM.
For over seven years, Mira has been a steadfast supporter, helping to guide our organization with wisdom, compassion, and commitment. The religious sisters in our community have been a driving force behind our mission—offering financial, emotional, and physical support from every angle.
We are deeply grateful for the women who have paved the way for us, shaping the foundation of Opening Doors and making a lasting impact on the lives of the women and children we serve. ❤️
Join us in celebrating Mira and all the incredible women making a difference!
🎥 @kodiak_creative
#WomensHistoryMonth #OpeningDoorsDBQ #CommunityAdvocate #WomenWhoInspire #dubuquenonprofit #homelesswomenandchildren #dubuquehomelesshelter
A Story of Hope: Tiffany’s Journey
“The day I walked into Opening Doors changed my life. I was scared at first, not knowing what was to come. Being at the Teresa Shelter was a life-changing experience. Not only was I able to get clean, but I was also able to bring my son home. The future looks brighter today than it ever has, and I thank the wonderful people at Opening Doors who continue to help and support us in our time of need.”
At Opening Doors, we are honored to walk alongside strong women like Tiffany as they rebuild their lives. Your support makes stories like hers possible. 💛
#OpeningDoors #Hope #NewBeginnings #SupportMatters
A Story of Hope: Tiffany’s Journey
“The day I walked into Opening Doors changed my life. I was scared at first, not knowing what was to come. Being at the Teresa Shelter was a life-changing experience. Not only was I able to get clean, but I was also able to bring my son home. The future looks brighter today than it ever has, and I thank the wonderful people at Opening Doors who continue to help and support us in our time of need.”
At Opening Doors, we are honored to walk alongside strong women like Tiffany as they rebuild their lives. Your support makes stories like hers possible. 💛
#OpeningDoors #Hope #NewBeginnings #SupportMatters
💚🎉 Feeling the Love: @kwikstopdq Kwik Care Contribution and Community Support
We were overjoyed and grateful as the Kwik Stop team presented us with the February Kwik Care contribution. Thank you, Kwik Stop, for your unwavering dedication to our community and for taking the time to visit our shelter. Your commitment to advocating for our mission year after year is truly appreciated—we couldn’t do it without you, our monthly donors, staff, and volunteers!
A special thank you to Allie Kutsch from the @cityofdubuque for joining us and advocating for Section 8 housing. Your presence and support are invaluable in raising awareness and finding solutions for the unhoused women and children in our community.
Together, we continue to make strides in providing healing, hope, and home to those who need it most. Your ongoing support and partnership make all the difference.
#KwikCare #CommunityPartners #DubuqueUnited #EmpowermentThroughCollaboration #HealingHopeHome
💚🎉 Feeling the Love: @kwikstopdq Kwik Care Contribution and Community Support
We were overjoyed and grateful as the Kwik Stop team presented us with the February Kwik Care contribution. Thank you, Kwik Stop, for your unwavering dedication to our community and for taking the time to visit our shelter. Your commitment to advocating for our mission year after year is truly appreciated—we couldn’t do it without you, our monthly donors, staff, and volunteers!
A special thank you to Allie Kutsch from the @cityofdubuque for joining us and advocating for Section 8 housing. Your presence and support are invaluable in raising awareness and finding solutions for the unhoused women and children in our community.
Together, we continue to make strides in providing healing, hope, and home to those who need it most. Your ongoing support and partnership make all the difference.
#KwikCare #CommunityPartners #DubuqueUnited #EmpowermentThroughCollaboration #HealingHopeHome
With the guidance and support of the transitional program and Teresa Shelter staff, I am working hard at moving forward and reaching goals to transition into a better life.
Opening Doors Dubuque
Empowering women and children experiencing homelessness through compassionate care & comprehensive programs. We provide shelter, support, and a path toward stability and independence. Services: Teresa Shelter, Maria House, and Francis Apt
🎶 Join Us for a Fun-Filled Fundraiser at Burkey’s Bar and Grill - Meat Paddle Wheel Fundraiser ! 🎶
Get ready for an afternoon of great music, community fun, and giving back—all in support of Opening Doors! Hosted by the Eagles Eyes on the Future Committee, this event promises an exciting atmosphere while making a meaningful impact.
📍 Location: Burkey’s Bar and Grill
Date: THIS Saturday, April 5, 2025
Time: 1 PM – 5 PM (Paddle Wheel starts at 1 PM!)
Live Music: Kicks off at 2 PM!
✨ What to Expect:
Paddle Wheel Prizes – Spin & win!
Live Music – Enjoy incredible performances!
Community Fun – Gather with friends & support a great cause!
Making a Difference – Proceeds benefit Opening Doors!
Let’s come together for a day of fun, music, and generosity. 📢 Spread the word, bring your friends, and let’s make an impact! ... See MoreSee Less
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Reflecting on a great afternoon at the 2025 USGBC Local Government Leadership Summit yesterday! Thank you Gina Bell and City of Dubuque Government - Mayor Brad Cavanagh for hosting this event.
I had the opportunity to learn more about LEED certification, connect with incredible community advocates, and bring new growth opportunities back to the Opening Doors Dubuque board. As we continue expanding our impact, sustainability and strong partnerships will play a key role in our future initiatives - Sheri Brezinka, LEED Green Associate hope we can connect more!
A big thank you to Mackenzie Mindel, M.A., LEED Green Associate, SEA, USGBC and everyone who attended for the insightful discussions and collaboration! Excited to keep the momentum going and looking forward to next year’s Growing Sustainable Communities Conference.
Dubuque becomes LEED-Certified City-
lnkd.in/g3f-tdag ... See MoreSee Less
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✨Wrapping up Women’s History Month with gratitude!
Meet our current Board President, Katie McClain, AVP, Human Resources at Dupaco Community Credit Union! Katie first joined Opening Doors as a committee member before transitioning onto the Board, where she continues to make a lasting impact.
Her passion for our mission and her willingness to go the extra mile for our board and team is truly a gift. Thank you, Katie, and our entire team for empowering women, changing lives, and creating hope, healing, and home for our residents. 🏡
video by Kodiak Creative
#WomensHistoryMonth #Gratitude #Leadership #OpeningDoorsDBQ #EmpowerChangeHope ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Sunshine and Smiles: A Beautiful Day at the Shelter
Today, the sun is shining bright, and so are the smiles at our shelter! 😎 We’re grateful for the gorgeous weather and the uplifting energy it brings to our residents and staff.
These moments of joy and warmth remind us of the importance of cherishing the simple pleasures in life and finding hope even in the face of challenges.
Here’s to brighter days ahead for all!
#SunshineAndSmiles #HopeAndHappiness #ShelterLife #StrongerTogether ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
✨ A Heartfelt Thank You! ✨
Opening Doors is incredibly grateful to the @dbqhba and their board for welcoming us back to the Homebuilders EXPO this year! Your continued support provides us with an amazing opportunity to share our mission and connect with our community.
A huge shoutout to our incredible volunteers—your dedication and hard work make all of this possible. We truly couldn’t do it without you!
Together, we are building more than just homes—we are building hope. 🏡💫
#ThankYou #CommunitySupport #OpeningDoorsDBQ #HomebuildersEXPO #buildinghope ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentComment on Facebook
Welcoming Our Spring Interns at Opening Doors!
We are incredibly grateful for our amazing Spring 2025 interns who are dedicating their time, skills, and passion to support the women and children we serve. Their hard work not only strengthens our mission but also builds a bridge between our organization and the next generation of change-makers in social work and advocacy.
A huge thank you to our local partner schools— @clarkeuniversity , @lorascollege , the @universityofdubuque , and @stambroseuniversity —for shaping these talented students and for fostering a culture of service and learning. The impact of these partnerships extends beyond our shelter, creating a strong foundation for future leaders in social work, advocacy, and beyond.
These incredible interns are not just learning—they are actively making a difference! Thank you for your dedication to Opening Doors and for contributing to a stronger, more connected community. 👏🫶🏼
#OpeningDoorsDBQ #SpringInterns #FutureLeaders #CommunityImpact #ThankYou ... See MoreSee Less
3 CommentsComment on Facebook
You ladies are ROCKSTARS! 🌟
These interns are fine ladies, I have nothing negative to say about them..but this place overall is incredibly toxic, drama filled and stressful. I'm thankful that after just 6 weeks I'm back on my feet and back in my city. But my time there was incredibly stressful. I was accused of bad mouthing simply for using Spanish with anotherf resident. Staff would regularly small talk all day and make us wait hours for basic services. False accusations of rule breaking were the norm, with no definitive proof provided. ,"camera" footage that was never provided. Bunk beds so flimsy you can feel every movement from the other person, and wake up. They don't deserve the recognition and funding that they get, until they put more accountability for staff. One social worker audaciously rolled her eyes at me at a simple request. Unprofessional, rude, inefficient and drama filled was my impression of this place..they do not live up to what they advertise, they're simply trying to take advantage of both residents and donors.
Nice job ladies!!! 👏👏
📢 Urgent Need: Paper Products Donation Request!
Opening Doors is in need of essential paper products—Kleenex, toilet paper, and paper towels—to support the women and children we serve daily. With a constant flow of residents, our supplies are running low.
You can help by:
🛍️ Donating directly – Drop off items at our admin office: 2100 Asbury Rd, Ste 8, Dubuque, IA
📦 Shipping via our Amazon Wish List – Have items sent directly to our shelter for convenience! a.co/a7VQmrQ
Every donation, big or small, makes a huge difference. Thank you for helping us provide comfort and care to those in need! ❤️
#openingdoorsdbq #supportwomen #DonationRequest #communitymatters ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
✨ Women’s History Month Spotlight: Mira Mosle, BVM Sisters ✨
At Opening Doors, we are honored to continue celebrating the incredible women who have shaped our mission. Today, we recognize Mira Mosle, BVM, a dedicated community advocate and Board Secretary/Treasurer, representing the Sisters of Charity, BVM.
For over seven years, Mira has been a steadfast supporter, helping to guide our organization with wisdom, compassion, and commitment. The religious sisters in our community have been a driving force behind our mission—offering financial, emotional, and physical support from every angle.
We are deeply grateful for the women who have paved the way for us, shaping the foundation of Opening Doors and making a lasting impact on the lives of the women and children we serve. 💙
Join us in celebrating Mira and all the incredible women making a difference!
video by Kodiak Creative
#WomensHistoryMonth #OpeningDoorsDBQ #CommunityAdvocate #WomenWhoInspire ... See MoreSee Less
3 CommentsComment on Facebook
Thank you Mira - BVM Sisters!
❣️
Sr. Mira is truly a blessing to Opening Doors!
A Story of Hope: Tiffany’s Journey
“The day I walked into Opening Doors changed my life. I was scared at first, not knowing what was to come. Being at the Teresa Shelter was a life-changing experience. Not only was I able to get clean, but I was also able to bring my son home. The future looks brighter today than it ever has, and I thank the wonderful people at Opening Doors who continue to help and support us in our time of need.”
At Opening Doors, we are honored to walk alongside strong women like Tiffany as they rebuild their lives. Your support makes stories like hers possible. 💛
#OpeningDoors #Hope #NewBeginnings #SupportMatters ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook