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.
🌞📚 Community Love from Local Schools - @holyfamilydbq
This week, I had the delightful opportunity to join the students at Saint Columbkille School for their morning announcements. I was truly touched they surprised us with a generous donation drive for @openingdoorsdubuque helping us meet some of our shelter’s essential needs.
A huge thank you to both Saint Columbkille School and Saint Joseph the Worker for your incredible support and for being such devoted advocates for our community. Your kindness and generosity remind us of the power of unity and compassion, and we are so grateful to have you by our side.
There’s no better way to kick off the month than with a heart full of gratitude 🙏
🌞📚 Community Love from Local Schools - @holyfamilydbq
This week, I had the delightful opportunity to join the students at Saint Columbkille School for their morning announcements. I was truly touched they surprised us with a generous donation drive for @openingdoorsdubuque helping us meet some of our shelter’s essential needs.
A huge thank you to both Saint Columbkille School and Saint Joseph the Worker for your incredible support and for being such devoted advocates for our community. Your kindness and generosity remind us of the power of unity and compassion, and we are so grateful to have you by our side.
There’s no better way to kick off the month than with a heart full of gratitude 🙏
✨ Meet the Board at Opening Doors! ✨
Behind every great organization is a dedicated team of leaders working tirelessly to drive its mission forward. At Opening Doors, our Executive Committee & Board of Directors plays a vital role in shaping our vision, supporting our programs, and ensuring we continue to empower women and children in our community.
Each board member brings unique expertise, passion, and commitment to our cause, helping us create lasting change. Stay tuned as we introduce these incredible individuals and share their stories!
Thank you to our board for your leadership and dedication!
#OpeningDoorsDBQ #MeetTheBoard #CommunityLeadership #EmpoweringWomen #MakingADifference
✨ Meet the Board at Opening Doors! ✨
Behind every great organization is a dedicated team of leaders working tirelessly to drive its mission forward. At Opening Doors, our Executive Committee & Board of Directors plays a vital role in shaping our vision, supporting our programs, and ensuring we continue to empower women and children in our community.
Each board member brings unique expertise, passion, and commitment to our cause, helping us create lasting change. Stay tuned as we introduce these incredible individuals and share their stories!
Thank you to our board for your leadership and dedication!
#OpeningDoorsDBQ #MeetTheBoard #CommunityLeadership #EmpoweringWomen #MakingADifference
Community Advocate Spotlight! A big thank YOU to a extraordinary couple who have made a significant impact on the lives of our residents – Richard and Joyce Smith.
Week after week, the Smiths have been working tirelessly to provide food for our residents and always bring a warm smile and comforting presence when making their deliveries. Their unwavering dedication to supporting our shelter and the families we serve truly makes a difference in our community. If you see Richard and Joyce around town, please join us in expressing our heartfelt gratitude for the meals, family feels, and smiling faces they generously share with our residents and staff.
We couldn’t do it without their incredible support and the help of our community partners.
Community Advocate Spotlight! A big thank YOU to a extraordinary couple who have made a significant impact on the lives of our residents – Richard and Joyce Smith.
Week after week, the Smiths have been working tirelessly to provide food for our residents and always bring a warm smile and comforting presence when making their deliveries. Their unwavering dedication to supporting our shelter and the families we serve truly makes a difference in our community. If you see Richard and Joyce around town, please join us in expressing our heartfelt gratitude for the meals, family feels, and smiling faces they generously share with our residents and staff.
We couldn’t do it without their incredible support and the help of our community partners.
Introducing Our Keynote Speaker for Filling Your Cup: @carpediemjbs
We are absolutely delighted to announce that the brilliant Jasmine Brett Stringer will be joining us as the keynote speaker for this year’s highly anticipated summer event, Filling Your Cup!
Jasmine Brett Stringer is a celebrated keynote speaker, an award-winning author of “Seize Your Life: How to Carpe Diem Every Day,” a vibrant on-air TV personality, and the inspiring host of the podcast and lifestyle blog Carpe Diem with Jasmine.
With her empowering message and infectious energy, Jasmine is dedicated to helping others lead authentic, fulfilling lives. Her wisdom and enthusiasm are sure to leave us all feeling inspired and motivated to embrace life to its fullest potential.
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to hear from Jasmine Brett Stringer and connect with fellow attendees at Filling Your Cup!
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, June 26
Time: 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Venue: @hoteljuliendubuque
We can’t wait to share this uplifting experience with you! Stay tuned for more updates and information.
#FillingYourCup #JasmineBrettStringer #KeynoteSpeaker #Empowerment #CarpeDiem
Introducing Our Keynote Speaker for Filling Your Cup: @carpediemjbs
We are absolutely delighted to announce that the brilliant Jasmine Brett Stringer will be joining us as the keynote speaker for this year’s highly anticipated summer event, Filling Your Cup!
Jasmine Brett Stringer is a celebrated keynote speaker, an award-winning author of “Seize Your Life: How to Carpe Diem Every Day,” a vibrant on-air TV personality, and the inspiring host of the podcast and lifestyle blog Carpe Diem with Jasmine.
With her empowering message and infectious energy, Jasmine is dedicated to helping others lead authentic, fulfilling lives. Her wisdom and enthusiasm are sure to leave us all feeling inspired and motivated to embrace life to its fullest potential.
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to hear from Jasmine Brett Stringer and connect with fellow attendees at Filling Your Cup!
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, June 26
Time: 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Venue: @hoteljuliendubuque
We can’t wait to share this uplifting experience with you! Stay tuned for more updates and information.
#FillingYourCup #JasmineBrettStringer #KeynoteSpeaker #Empowerment #CarpeDiem
✨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
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
🌞📚 Community Love from Local Schools - @holyfamilydbq
This week, I had the delightful opportunity to join the students at Saint Columbkille School for their morning announcements. I was truly touched they surprised us with a generous donation drive for @openingdoorsdubuque helping us meet some of our shelter’s essential needs.
A huge thank you to both Saint Columbkille School and Saint Joseph the Worker for your incredible support and for being such devoted advocates for our community. Your kindness and generosity remind us of the power of unity and compassion, and we are so grateful to have you by our side.
There’s no better way to kick off the month than with a heart full of gratitude 🙏 ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Thank you Burkey’s Bar and Grill for hosting this weekend! ... See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available right now
When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Multicultural Family Center we can't wait to be apart of it again this year! ... See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available right now
When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Thank you DRA for the kickoff! ... See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available right now
When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
✨ Meet the Board at Opening Doors! ✨
Behind every great organization is a dedicated team of leaders working tirelessly to drive its mission forward. At Opening Doors, our Executive Committee & Board of Directors plays a vital role in shaping our vision, supporting our programs, and ensuring we continue to empower women and children in our community.
Each board member brings unique expertise, passion, and commitment to our cause, helping us create lasting change. Stay tuned as we introduce these incredible individuals and share their stories!
Thank you to our board for your leadership and dedication!
#OpeningDoorsDBQ #MeetTheBoard #CommunityLeadership #EmpoweringWomen #MakingADifference ... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
Congrats and thank you for your committments 🙌🙌
Amazing team 👏💯
Community Advocate Spotlight! A big thank YOU to a extraordinary couple who have made a significant impact on the lives of our residents – Richard and Joyce Smith.
Week after week, the Smiths have been working tirelessly to provide food for our residents and always bring a warm smile and comforting presence when making their deliveries. Their unwavering dedication to supporting our shelter and the families we serve truly makes a difference in our community. If you see Richard and Joyce around town, please join us in expressing our heartfelt gratitude for the meals, family feels, and smiling faces they generously share with our residents and staff.
We couldn’t do it without their incredible support and the help of our community partners. ... See MoreSee Less
4 CommentsComment on Facebook
<3
❣️
Dick & Joyce are two beautiful souls❣️
Introducing Our Keynote Speaker for Filling Your Cup : Carpe Diem with Jasmine
We are absolutely delighted to announce that the brilliant Jasmine Brett Stringer will be joining us as the keynote speaker for this year’s highly anticipated summer event, Filling Your Cup!
Jasmine Brett Stringer is a celebrated keynote speaker, an award-winning author of “Seize Your Life: How to Carpe Diem Every Day,” a vibrant on-air TV personality, and the inspiring host of the podcast and lifestyle blog Carpe Diem with Jasmine.
With her empowering message and infectious energy, Jasmine is dedicated to helping others lead authentic, fulfilling lives. Her wisdom and enthusiasm are sure to leave us all feeling inspired and motivated to embrace life to its fullest potential.
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to hear from Jasmine Brett Stringer and connect with fellow attendees at Filling Your Cup!
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, June 26
Time: 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Venue: @hoteljuliendubuque
We can’t wait to share this uplifting experience with you! Stay tuned for more updates and information.
#FillingYourCup #JasmineBrettStringer #KeynoteSpeaker #Empowerment #CarpeDiem ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Thank You, Stuff Etc Dubuque!!
We are incredibly grateful for your generous $800 donation to Opening Doors! Your support helps provide shelter, resources, and empowerment to women and children experiencing homelessness in our community.
A huge shoutout to your amazing shoppers—your Early Bird Ticket purchases are making a real difference! Together, we are opening doors to hope, stability, and new opportunities.
#thankyou #communitysupport #OpeningDoors #makinganimpact🌟 Opening Doors & Changing Lives! 🌟
We are honored to donate $800 to Opening Doors Dubuque, a remarkable organization that provides shelter, support, and resources to women and children experiencing homelessness in our community. 🏡💙 Their mission empowers individuals to build a brighter, more stable future, and we are grateful for the opportunity to support their work.
This donation was made possible thanks to our incredible shoppers who purchased Early Bird Tickets for our January 1/2 Price Sale! 🎟️ Your support allows us to give back and make a real impact on the lives of those in need.
Together, we are opening doors to hope and new opportunities! 💕
#StuffEtcCares #GivingBack #ShopLocal #CommunityMatters #TogetherWeGive #NeighborsHelpingNeighbors #SupportingFamilies ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
🎶 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
0 CommentsComment on Facebook