2-1-1 is an easy- to- remember telephone number that impacts communities by connecting people with important services and volunteer opportunities. 2-1-1 helps people find and give help. 2-1-1 is currently operating in 32 states and serving over 50% of our nation's population.

Locally, 2-1-1 launched in early 2006. Calls to 2-1-1 are confidential and FREE from land-line phones. Trained specialists are available Monday-Friday, 7am-6pm to help find local services, including: Housing, Rental Assistance, Temporary Shelter, Legal Assitance, Child Care, Children's Services, Services for Teens, Medical Care, Medical Coupons, Assisted Living, Food Pantries, Drug Treatment, Counseling/Support, Transportation, Senior Services, Volunteering, Education, Literacy, Tutoring, Recreation

The benefits of having a 2-1-1 Call Center in our state and region are far reaching:

• 2-1-1 is a cost-effective answer to help people navigate the complex and ever-growing maze of human service agencies and programs;
• People can cut through red tape to gain access to a full range of community resources from a call center staff person;
• 2-1-1 encourages prevention and fosters self-sufficiency and civic engagement;
• Employers can provide employees with one number to call whether they have a question or need support in a crisis;
• 2-1-1 connects volunteers with agencies and programs needing assistance;
• 2-1-1 can be used as a community planning tool by using aggregate data about the types of calls a 2-1-1 Call Center receives to anticipate demand for services and mobilize resources to meet changing needs;
• 2-1-1 can be a back-up for 9-1-1 in the event of a natural or man-made disaster.

Do you know someone that needs access to services? Do you know someone who wants to volunteer?  Help spread the word and let your friends and colleagues know about this vital service.
Making 2-1-1 part of our community's conversation will help ensure its use and long term success.