Company Profile

Company Overview

STEPPING STONES OF DUNN COUNTY www.steppingstonesdc.org

This year Stepping Stones marks its 30th anniversary of addressing the needs of low income residents of Dunn County. The organization’s mission is: "People helping people strengthen the Dunn County community by providing food, shelter and support." This is accomplished through Stepping Stones’ three programs:

The FOOD PANTRY provides food, personal care items, and resources for healthy living. Clients may come as often as needed and receive enough food for their household for approximately 4-5 days including non-perishables and fresh or frozen food such as produce, bread, dairy, and meat. The pantry is open six days per week and serves an average of 55 families per day. Weekend meal bags are provided through local schools to children at risk of hunger and supplemental food boxes are distributed monthly to low income seniors.

STEPPING STONES SHELTER PROGRAM provides emergency shelter, housing assistance, and referral services to prevent homelessness and facilitate self-sufficiency. Stepping Stones has two apartment style shelters to accommodate individuals and families. Residents generally stay 4 to 6 weeks. During their stay they work closely with shelter staff to secure permanent and affordable housing. When the shelters are full people may be housed short-term at a local motel if funds are available.

The COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS PROGRAM connects volunteers to people needing supportive services such as transportation, small home repairs, and seasonal yard work; offers emergency financial assistance as funds are available with expenses such as utilities, transportation, prescriptions, and other necessities; and connects people to other community resources. The program coordinator also manages the volunteer program for the whole organization. In 2015 ~18,000 volunteer hours were contributed by over 200 people to help make all of Stepping Stones’ programs and services possible.

The organization is a first source for help for many people experiencing a difficult time who need ‘a stepping stone’ to get back on solid ground. Stepping Stones is governed by a board of directors. The annual operating budget is ~$500,000. Income is from public and private grants, fundraising events and contributions from individuals, businesses, churches, and other organizations.