Take a minute to learn what 2-1-1 is and why you and everyone you know should be talking about it.

1. For SEVEN YEARS parts of Oregon have had 2-1-1. In the those 7 counties – more than 100,000 people call 2-1-1 every year. 80% of Americans have access to 2-1-1. So you’re wondering...

2. WHAT IS ? AND HOW CAN IT HELP YOU?

3. EVERY DAY, people need information that would improve their lives.

4. AND EVERY DAY, organizations are working to help improve lives.

5. But, connecting the people who need help with the people who can provide help… ISN’T ALWAYS EASY!

6. IN FACT, the system can be fragmented, confusing and difficult to navigate.

7. My kids need food, what do I do? Should I pay $1000 for help with my mortgage? How can I help my neighbor find a walker? Can they shut off electricity if I use a respirator? Where do I find resources for my needy client? I’m freezing, where’s the nearest shelter?

8. THAT’S WHERE COMES IN!

9. cuts through the clutter, so people can find what they need…

10. Right in their own backyard!

11. When someone calls they talk to a real, live person! Calls are also free and anonymous.

12. Call center specialists do more than search a database…

13. They diagnose the caller’s issue and uncover a myriad of solutions.

14. 9-1-1 operators like 2-1-1 too! When 9-1-1 is focused on emergency response, 2-1-1 provides vital information and resource referrals during forest fires, floods and other natural disasters. 2-1-1 played a crucial role in the San Diego wild fires!

15. For local health and community service providers, 2-1-1 helps directs informed and appropriate callers to the right agencies every time. 2-1-1 played a crucial role in the San Diego wild fires! 2-1-1 coordinates referrals so no single provider becomes overwhelmed and so every organization can focus on getting help to more people.

16. 2-1-1 serves A LOT of people who need help AND SavesA LOT of money and time for people who look for services for their clients or constituents.

18. Legal offices

19. Elected officials

20. Businesses

21. Community Centers

22. Faith centers

24. If this was science or math class, the formula might look like this: 211 + community resources + public knowledge = Improved lives

25. Hmmm, that sounds like a formula that has worked before… 911 + emergency services+ public knowledge = Improved lives

26. SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT www.211info.org

27. www.211info.org/blog www.facebook.com/211info www.twitter.com/211info