From the moment a woman steps into Opening Doors Under One Roof, she will be offered healing, hope, and home.
CUSTOMIZED COMPREHENSIVE CASE MANAGEMENT: Women are empowered to realize their full potential through an individualized approach, including goal setting, employment search support, life skills training, and financial literacy programs. Our collaborative efforts with partner agencies include comprehensive wrap- around services, job training, and educational opportunities.
PARENTING SKILL DEVELOPMENT: Involves acquiring knowledge and refining techniques that promote effective and positive parenting.
This involves learning effective communication, setting boundaries, using positive reinforcement, resolving conflicts peacefully, regulating emotions and seeking support.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS SERVICES: Offers comprehensive health and wellness services in partnership with Crescent Community Health Center, including medical, dental, and brain health care. This covers general medical consultations, dental check-ups and treatments for various illnesses.
NUTRITION, FOOD ASSISTANCE AND PERSONAL CARE: Enables additional holistic resources through medical insurance, childcare assistance and food and clothing resources.
ON-SITE SUPPORT MEETINGS AND DIGNITY-AFFIRMING SERVICES: The new space will enhance self-esteem and well-being through increased access to showers, laundry facilities, a computer lab, dedicated quiet spaces, large exercise and play areas, and enhanced kitchen, dining and living spaces.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Celebrating 25 years, Opening Doors is a beacon of hope focused on addressing homelessness and poverty in Dubuque and the Tri-State area. What began in 1999 as a mission to aid homeless women and their children has evolved into programs across three locations. As we mark this milestone, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment, poised to propel transformative change.
The impetus for Opening Doors was a knock on a door answered by Deacon Tim LoBianco at St. Patrick’s Church in Dubuque. A woman was found sleeping in Jackson Park with her dog. While shelter was available for her dog, there was nowhere for the woman to turn.
In the intervening years, Maria House and Teresa Shelter have provided shelter and safety to 4,700 women and their children. However, these facilities are no longer able to meet the escalating needs of those seeking escape from homelessness. Imagine 30 women and their children sharing two bathrooms and three showers. The constant demand for laundry facilities coupled with the inability to expand the laundry room space results in daily breakdowns of the machines, adding another layer of stress to an already challenging situation.
OUR VISION: Help all unhoused women and their children achieve independence and confidence.
OUR MISSION: Empowering women and their children by providing shelter and personalized support to find
healing, hope and home.
Staying true to our values of compassion, empowerment, opportunity,
inclusiveness, and community, it is time for a transformative initiative
to achieve the vision and enhance the mission.
healing • hope • home
healing: At its core, this initiative
is about providing an opportunity
for individuals to heal from the
hardships of homelessness.
Opening Doors embraces a
trauma-informed approach,
offering a safe and supportive
environment where individuals can
rebuild their lives.
hope: The program instills hope
by addressing the root causes
of homelessness and providing
comprehensive services beyond
immediate shelter. It empowers
women and their children with
the skills, resources, and support
needed to envision and strive for a
brighter future.
home: Opening Doors is
dedicated to breaking the cycle
of homelessness. In addition to
providing temporary refuge, we
offer a pathway to permanent
housing such as Francis Apartments,
which will remain at the current
location on Jackson Street. Our
goal is to empower individuals with
the necessary life skills to build a
foundation for self-sufficiency.
Since 2000, Opening Doors has served over 4,700 women and their
children, providing shelter and a continuum of services to empower
them. This translates to over 135,000 nights of shelter.
WHY NOW?
As the demand for our services continues to increase exponentially, it is clear that we must take action to expand and enhance our facilities, programs, and services, ensuring that unhoused women and their children have a place to rebuild and become permanently independent.
Opening Doors envisions a future where home is not only a physical place but a haven for stability, safety and support. The Opening Doors Under One Roof Campaign aims to consolidate and enhance services by bringing Teresa Shelter, Maria House, and the administrative office together at the former Dubuque Bank and Trust (DB&T) on Central.
This is a rare and time-sensitive opportunity to triple our available space from14,600 to 49,000 square feet. At the heart of this transformation lies the renovation of the building which will enable usto implement a trauma-informed design. By establishing functional personal spaces, we will enhance the probability of success for those we serve. This expansion is crucial as it will significantly bolster our ability to meet the growing needs of women and children in our community. Currently, the absence of private and tranquil areas for relaxation or de-escalation is glaring. Some individuals have regrettably departed from our program due to the loud and stressful environment within the shelter, defeating the purpose.
The constrained environment not only impedes our mission but also exposes both residents and staff to
significant stress, compromising the healing process. This expansion will address these shortcomings, providing
ample room for individuals to thrive, ensuring our mission isn’t compromised by cramped quarters and stress.
Delaying consolidation means increased costs, longer lead times, and decreased accessibility to vital programs and services.
A total of 586 women and their children in need were turned away due to capacity in the last three years, with a 112.5% increase between 2022-2023.
The U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development 2023 report found a total of
2,653 homeless individuals
in Iowa on a single given night. Overall, the report showed a
12% increase in homelessness nationally in 2023.
Source: www.huduser.gov/portal/sites/default/files/pdf/2023-AHAR-Part-1.pdf
“At Opening Doors, our passion is empowering
individuals not only to transition out of homelessness
but to equip them with the resources needed for
sustainable, independent living.”
– CAROL GEBHART, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
THE THREE DOORS MODEL:
W H Y I T W O R K S
People become homeless for multifaceted reasons, and life on the streets takes a toll on physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Breaking free from homelessness without structured support becomes increasingly more complex and, ultimately, seemingly impossible. Once trapped in this cycle, individuals face diminished job prospects, fractured family ties, addictions, declining health, plummeting self-esteem, and a relentless downward spiral.
The programs and daily routines at Opening Doors are meticulously designed to provide structured support, aiming to tackle past challenges, disrupt harmful thought and behavioral patterns, and promote holistic well- being for the mind, body and spirit. The robust partnerships and programs equip each person for long-term success. This allows for goal achievement, moving individuals from unhoused to shelter and permanent housing. This model provides a lasting solution to the cycle of homelessness.
FIRST DOOR
TERESA SHELTER offers immediate refuge through Emergency and extended stay programs for up to 30 days. Women meet with a case manager within 24 hours to assess needs and set goals. They then have the option to transition to Extended Stay for up to a year, working with a case manager to achieve goals. During this time women are required to save 30% of their income, promoting responsible financial habits for housing expenses.
SECOND DOOR
MARIA HOUSE offers transitional housing for up to two years, nurturing continuous personal development and stability. Women must allocate 30% of their income, with 20% dedicated to savings and 10% towards an occupancy fee to Opening Doors.
THIRD DOOR
FRANCIS APARTMENTS is a permanent supportive housing program where residents contribute 30% of their income toward rent, while Opening Doors subsidizes the remainder as needed. Additionally, ongoing case management is required.
“Opening Doors believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”
Lora and Ella
This new facility will increase our number of beds from
54 to 98
KEY ADVANTAGES
EXPANDING AND OPTIMIZING SPACE TO SERVE THE GROWING NEED: The former Dubuque Bank and Trust (DB&T) on Central, with its ample space, downtown location, and historical significance, stands as an ideal setting to realize our vision for providing trauma-informed care, fostering healing and instilling hope. This accessible location enables greater inclusivity, making it possible to accommodate a wider range of individuals in our programs.
In contrast, the Maria House, constructed in 1900, presents significant accessibility challenges. The absence of ground-floor bedrooms and the basement kitchen and dining facilities hinder accessibility
and convenience. Moreover, its limited number of bedrooms restricts the ability to effectively serve the community’s needs.
While the Teresa Shelter is newer, it operates at or near capacity. The separate locations do not allow valuable interaction between residents new to our programs and those who have grown and gained confidence during their time with us. Implementing this design provides long-term recovery and hope for a better future. Iowa can do better for homeless women and their children, and Dubuque can lead the way to a bright future.
STRATEGIC DOWNTOWN LOCATION: The new facility’s proximity to essential services, major transportation arteries, and vibrant downtown
areas ensures easy access for all Tri-State residents, addressing the critical need for shelter in our community. Neighboring resources such as the Food Pantry, St. John’s clothes closet, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dubuque, NICC classes at Steeple Square, Marita Theisen Childcare Center, Prescott School, bus route, Voices Studios for the arts, Crescent Community Health Center and Francis Apartments enables seamless service opportunities for those served by Opening Doors.
GREEN SPACE AND EXERCISE AREA: Our sites currently lack green space and exercise areas, impacting the well-being of women and their children as they have no place to stretch or be outdoors. Compounding this challenge is the need for a play area, both indoors and outdoors. The existing play space is confined to a corner of the community room, which serves as a dining, living, and study area, hindering the holistic development of children within the shelter. The new location offers ample space for recreational activities, as well as dedicated quiet spaces that will contribute to an atmosphere of healing.
ENHANCING EFFICIENCY: Consolidating staff and management in one location will significantly enhance efficiency. This will eliminate travel time, allowing staff to spend more quality time interacting with residents. Additionally, it will facilitate more private conversations, fostering better communication and support for all involved.
Juli’s Story
“I came to the Teresa Shelter nearly five years ago having nowhere to go. Working through the program was hard at first because I was recently diagnosed with fibromyalgia then. Even with this difficulty, I made it through to the Maria House, never giving up and always pressing on. Opening Doors provided me the stability to get back on my feet. Through some of my darkest times, the staff freely gave compassion and care I never had in my life. They helped me budget, problem solve and reach out to the community for resources I never knew existed. They helped support me and my goals, giving me inspiration and encouragement to go after my dreams. I am now living in the Francis Apartments. A dream I never thought could happen. During all of this, I lost my oldest son
to mental illness and leukemia, helped my middle son with his mental illness, and I endured breast cancer and fibromyalgia. I now live in the Francis Apartments and have opened my own Art business. A dream I never thought could happen. I could have never done this without the help of Opening Doors. I am so thankful for all the support and help they have given me.
Dreams really do come true!”
Amsatou’s Story
“It will take more than words to talk about Opening Doors. All staff show such dedication and courage to women and children who are experiencing challenges in their lives. We were welcomed by great kindness despite everything we have gone through in our past. We greatly appreciate their support and reintegration into active life as best as possible. Opening Doors brings comfort and makes a difference in our daily lives and well-being. The support and help of Opening Doors are so appreciated!”
Ebony’s Story
After suffering from addiction and having to bounce around between friends’ and family’s homes, Ebony
entered the Teresa Shelter looking for a fresh start.
She immediately began to work hard to find employment and began working a full-time job. Ebony learned the importance of financial responsibility and saving money. She was able to begin processing things that happened in her past and learned healthy ways of coping with trauma. Through her hard work and the support of Opening Doors staff, Ebony accomplished her goal of re-establishing healthy relationships with her four children.
Ebony now lives with her children in her own apartment at Francis Apartments. She continues to work full time, save money, and was able to purchase a vehicle for herself!
“More than 25 years ago we, the Catholic Sisters of the Tri-State area, learned there was no housing for women experiencing homelessness. We quickly responded with seed money for what has become Opening Doors, and we have continued to be staunch supporters, in awe at the courage and resilience of the residents and the dedication of the staff and volunteers who support the residents in their process of reaching their goals.
More space is needed to meet the growing demand for emergency housing. A unique opportunity has opened up that will allow for two of the doors to be under one roof. This will create expanded and enhanced spaces for housing more residents and a place for the children to study and play. This new location will provide the continuity of services offered at Opening Doors.
We again commit our financial support for a trauma-informed environment to foster compassion, healing and hope. We continue to be proud to support the Opening Doors mission. This is what the Dubuque community needs and the Gospel expects of us.”
– AREA RELIGIOUS CONGREGATIONS: SISTERS OF CHARITY, BVM: LADONNA MANTERNACH, BVM; SISTERS OF ST. FRANCIS: KATHY KNIPPER, OSF; SISTERS OF THE PRESENTATION: CARMEN HERNANDEZ, PBVM; SINSINAWA DOMINICANS: CHRISTINA HELTSLEY, OP; AND SISTERS OF THE VISITATION: PATRICIA CLARK, SVM.
Morgan, Rosalyn, Griffyn, and Luxender
Photo credit: Dave Kettering/Telegraph Herald
COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES AND PROGRAMS OVERVIEW
Opening Doors utilizes trauma-informed care practices to meet residents where they are. Practices involve identifying the trauma that the women and children we serve have experienced and employing our guiding principles: safety, choice, collaboration, trustworthiness, and empowerment for their healing and growth.
Individualized case management and referrals to local resources and social services partners combine to support and transform lives. Case managers often meet with the residents and other service providers so the additional space gained from consolidation will allow for a more private, professional environment. Services include:
CUSTOMIZED COMPREHENSIVE CASE MANAGEMENT: Women are empowered to realize their full potential through an individualized approach, including goal setting, employment search support, life skills training, and financial literacy programs. Our collaborative efforts with partner agencies include comprehensive wrap- around services, job training, and educational opportunities.
PARENTING SKILL DEVELOPMENT: Involves acquiring knowledge and refining techniques that promote effective and positive parenting.
This involves learning effective communication, setting boundaries, using positive reinforcement, resolving conflicts peacefully, regulating emotions and seeking support.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS SERVICES: Offers comprehensive health and wellness services in partnership with Crescent Community Health Center, including medical, dental, and brain health care. This covers general medical consultations, dental check-ups and treatments for various illnesses.
NUTRITION, FOOD ASSISTANCE AND PERSONAL CARE: Enables additional holistic resources through medical insurance, childcare assistance and food and clothing resources.
ON-SITE SUPPORT MEETINGS AND DIGNITY-AFFIRMING SERVICES: The new space will enhance self-esteem and well- being through increased access to showers, laundry facilities, a computer lab, dedicated quiet spaces, large exercise and play areas, and enhanced kitchen, dining and living spaces.
From Homeless to Hope:Marie’s Journey of Resilience
“I have learned so much from being involved in this program. I will never forget hearing the words from the staff, ‘there is no judgement here.’ It was the first time that I felt accepted for being who I was, good and bad, and that feeling is what allowed me to grow.
“Arriving at the Teresa Shelter was the first time in my life that I could be completely and totally honest with myself and start to live my truth. It was so empowering to know that despite my past, people still cared and would listen to me. I learned with the support of Opening Doors, that I had a voice and my voice mattered.”
With unwavering support, Marie embraced every opportunity, rebuilding her life one step at a time. Through determination and resilience, she not only found a home but also saved $10,000.
Today, Marie stands as a living testament to Opening Doors’ mission of providing healing, hope and home.
“My mom, Peggy Crahan, and her best friend Maureen Siegert were early believers in Maria House, now Opening Doors, and its mission of giving the homeless women and children of Dubuque a hand-up rather than a handout. One of her memorials upon passing was Opening Doors. Twenty- one years later her fund continues to support homeless women and children in Dubuque.
Three years ago, Carol Gebhart encouraged me to join the board of Opening Doors. Initially hesitant, I questioned the severity of homelessness in Dubuque, comparing it to California’s well-known issue. Carol insisted I visit Teresa Shelter to witness firsthand how my mother’s memorial continues to make a difference. This experience deeply moved me, solidifying my dedication to Opening Doors’ mission.
The homeless situation has worsened in recent years. We have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bring Opening Doors Under One Roof to expand our services and capacity to enhance an environment of healing, hope, and home.”
– KEVIN F. CRAHAN, CAMPAIGN CHAIR AND BOARD MEMBER
Children like Ella continue to be supported by the Peggy Crahan Children’s Fund.
INVESTMENT FOR LASTING IMPACT
Your commitment to the Opening Doors Under One Roof campaign is more than just a financial contribution; it’s an investment in the profound transformation of individuals’ lives.
By supporting this initiative, you are directly contributing to the well-being, resilience, and empowerment of those who are striving to rebuild their lives from the ground up. Your commitment ensures that individuals have access to the resources, support, and opportunities they need to overcome homelessness and find stability. Together, we can make a lasting impact and create a brighter future for all.
To make a significant difference, the $20 million campaign goal includes building purchase and renovation costs, green space development, and program expansion.
“At the end of life we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made, how many great things we have done. We will be judged by ‘I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was naked and you clothed me, I was homeless and you took me in.’ Hungry not only for bread — but hungry for love. Naked not only for clothing — but naked for human dignity and respect. Homeless not only for want of a room of bricks — but homeless because of rejection.”
– MOTHER TERESA
healing • hope • home
WE INVITE YOU…
To be a beacon of hope for the next quarter century, creating an expanded and revitalized environment where women and their children not only escape homelessness but also break the cycle, realizing their full potential for self-sufficient lives. As we embark on this $20 million transformative journey, your timely and generous support will offer a hand-up in the world, not a handout, to women and their children facing homelessness in Dubuque and the Tri-State area.
Thank you for giving serious consideration to this urgent request.