Open Arms Brings Hope and Support to Local Families

At our most recent Kiwanis Club of Coeur d’Alene meeting, we were honored to welcome Vicki Scribner, Executive Director of Open Arms Real Choices Clinic, as our guest speaker. Vicki shared an inspiring overview of the organization’s mission and the meaningful impact it is making throughout North Idaho.

Open Arms is a fully donor-supported, family-centered organization dedicated to supporting mothers, fathers, and children through a wide range of services—all offered at no cost to clients. With a growing team of 17 staff members and more than 50 volunteers, the organization provides close to 2,000 client visits each year, delivering both practical resources and personal encouragement to families navigating pregnancy and early parenthood.

Their services extend far beyond basic assistance. Open Arms offers free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, certified lactation consulting, child development screenings, along with essential items such as car seats and pack-n-plays, a boutique where families receive baby items free of charge, and a strong emphasis on education and personal development. Programs include parenting classes, support for single mothers, and a new moms group that fosters connection, encouragement, and community. As highlighted in their materials, the organization is committed to providing “lab-quality pregnancy testing, options counseling, parenting classes, and early child development support”.

One of the most exciting developments Vicki shared is a growing focus on engaging fathers. Their new initiatives—including the “Diaper Dads” program—emphasize responsibility, involvement, and the critical role fathers play in strong, healthy families. This intentional outreach reflects Open Arms’ holistic approach to strengthening the entire family unit.

Open Arms operates with a clear mission to provide compassionate care, practical support, and life-affirming resources to those in need. As noted in their handout, they aim to “empower people to make life-affirming choices through education, compassion, and pregnancy-related services” .

We are grateful to Vicki for sharing the story of Open Arms and for the important work her organization is doing in our community. Their commitment to serving families with dignity, care, and support is truly making a difference.

For more information on how you can volunteer or partner with Open Arms, click Here.

Photograph: Vicki Scribner (left) and Jeannie Nugent