Frequently Asked Questions 

+ How can I support MSS’ mission?

There are many ways you can get involved. If you are interested in providing financial support, you can do so here.

+ I’m interested in a job at MSS – how can I apply?

MSS is a great place to work! See our open positions and apply here.

+ Can I volunteer at MSS?

Yes! We’re always looking for volunteers. Submit an application here.

+ I or my family member will be graduating from school soon - what happens next?

If you have a case manager, they will work with you to discuss available options. If you are looking for a day program, you should take some tours and choose one that will support your needs and goals. If you choose MSS, the process is this:

  • Before services start, we will work with you to organize transportation for you to and from MSS if you need it.
  • You will be given a service coordinator who will work with you and your support team (others that you want to be involved in supporting you in creating your plan for services).

  • That team will meet with you before services start (Intake meeting) and again within your first 45-days of service to make sure things are going well. Going forward, you can choose how often the team meets as long as it’s at least annually.

  • Much of your plan will be created before you start services, so all distaff can be trained on how to best support you once you start, but during the first 45 days we will work with you to figure out exactly what your short and long-term goals, and put a plan in place to help you work towards them.

+ How can I schedule a tour?

Call the closest location to you, or write to us here. We will get back to you promptly.

+ What does MSS stand for?

Midwest Special Services, but now we just go by MSS.

+ When are your hours of operation?

Our general hours are Monday-Friday, 7:30am–4pm. However, the time we serve an individual may vary, based on their home location and their preferences. We are closed for most national holidays, but our closing calendar varies slightly from year to year.

+ What is your admission policy?

View our admission policy along with other policies that may be of interest.

+ How do I apply for services?

If you are interested in our services, you can call or visit the closest location to you or you can write to us here. If you have a case manager, they may contact us on your behalf if you want them to.

+ Do you provide transportation?

Yes. If you need assistance with getting to/from MSS or a job site, we will work with you to make that happen. Options include taking Metro Mobility, riding an MSS van or bus, or riding on a bus owned by a company we sub-contract with.

+ How many people does MSS support?

We support more than 600 people each year.

+ How can I stay informed on what’s happening at MSS?

You can sign up for our email list at the bottom of this page under “LET’S STAY IN TOUCH”

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

Follow us on Instagram here (agency-wide account) or here (Creative Arts account)

Visit our YouTube page

Connect with us on LinkedIn

+ How are you regulated?

We are licensed by the MN Department of Human Services (DHS). DHS conducts periodic licensing visits to ensure that we follow all applicable laws and regulations.

We are accredited by CARF, an international organization focused on advancing the quality of health and human services. A team of CARF surveyors visits our programs every 3 years and assesses how well we meet their extensive list of standards. We have successfully met or exceeded CARF’s high expectations for over thirty years.

+ Where can I find the MSS 990 and annual report?

View past annual reports and 990 forms here.

+ What if I have further questions?

Send us an email or call our main office at 651–778–1000.