Something Special Daycare Center - St. Anthony

Heidi Smith had a dream and a vision — quality childcare that parents could rely on, right in her own community of St. Anthony. But what seemed like a simple idea soon turned to frustration as Smith was repeatedly turned down for assistance by every bank and agency she contacted.

As a last resort she contacted Sen. Mike Crapo's office. They in turn referred Heidi to the Idaho Small Business Development Center in Idaho Falls. With help from the center, Heidi was able to obtain financing for her new business and a grant from Bechtel's Economic Development Department.

Her dream finally became a reality in July 2001 when Smith opened Something Special Daycare Center. Throughout the process, Sen. Crapo's office remained involved and supportive, proving it does pay to be persistent.