Our mission is to assist families in finding quality affordable child care and respite care for children with special needs.

Make a difference in the lives of families.

Opening Doors Providers
 
The Opening Doors Program is designed to match families in need of a specific type of child care with providers who focus on caring for children with special needs. Providers interested in caring for children with special needs are encouraged to become an Opening Doors provider. Providers are matched with families who request either child care or respite care. Provider referrals are based on a family’s needs, location, provider availability, the child’s special needs, and the provider’s experience or training. Once a referral is made, it is up to the family to contact and select a provider.

Opening Doors assists providers with the following:

  • Referring providers to families looking for respite and childcare
  • Finding helpful information about specific disabilities
  • Special discounts on various training opportunities
  • Information on training sessions, conferences and workshops
  • Support and recognition
  • Background checks
  • Linking providers with community resources

SPECIAL NEEDS MAY INCLUDE:

  • Communication disorders
  • Developmental disabilities
  • Medical/Health Concerns
  • Physical disabilities
  • Behavior concerns
  • Emotional disabilities

 

What ages do we serve?

Children ages birth through 21 years.

What about training?

Informal training is arranged between you and the family. Additional training opportunities are available for those interested. Please call for details.

How are providers paid?

Families and providers negotiate the pay rate together.

Payment varies depending upon the funding sources, needs of the child, and the experience of the provider.


PARENTS MAY ASK THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:

What is your availability?

Would you be willing to transport my child?

What do you charge?

What about siblings of the child with special needs?

Do you have any specialized training such as CPR, sign language, etc.?


HOW TO BECOME AN OPENING DOORS PROVIDER:

If you are interested in becoming an Opening Doors Provider please fill out the two forms below. Complete the Provider Application online or download the Printable Provider Application and mail or fax it along with the Printable DHS Release Form.

Please see the DHS Criminal Background Form below this must be filled out, signed and then faxed or mailed to the Arc Midstate office. This form must be submitted, for your application to be processed, and then must clear for you to become an Opening Doors Provider.

Online Provider Application
  Printable Provider Application

Below is a release for a MN Department of Human Services background check that needs to be signed and then sent back to Opening Doors either by mail, fax, or scanned and sent to Openingdoors@arcmidstate.org.

Printable DHS Release Form
   

Fax: 320.253.6844

Mailing Address:
Arc Midstate
P.O. Box 251
St. Cloud, MN 56302

We will contact you when the application is complete and your name has been added to the Opening Doors Providers Listing. Once your name has been added to the Opening Doors Provider listing we will start contacting you about childcare and respite referrals. The Opening Doors project gives providers support, recognition, and information on training and resources.

 

Contact Us for More Information
320.202.1941
877.251.7272
OpeningDoors@ArcMidstate.org
 

Arc Midstate Regional Office
PO Box 251 | St. Cloud, MN 56302
Phone: 320.251.7272 | Out of Area 877.251.7272
info@ArcMidstate.org

Serving Midstate Minnesota including Stearns, Benton, Morrison & Todd Counties