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News About 2-1-1

2-1-1 Connections - July 2007 Issue

2-1-1 Connections - December 2006 Issue

2-1-1 VIRGINIA Launched on February 10th

Hours of operation for 2-1-1 VIRGINIA will be from 8:30 a.m. - Midnight, seven days a week with plans to operate 24-hours a day as funding to support the expansion become available.

FAQS about 2-1-1 VIRGINIA

What is 2-1-1 VIRGINIA?

2-1-1 VIRGINIA is the national abbreviated dialing code for free access to health and human services information and referral (I&R).  2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember and universally recognizable number that makes a critical connection between individuals and families in need and the appropriate community-based organizations and government agencies.  2-1-1 makes it possible for people in need to navigate the complex and ever-growing maze of human services’ agencies and programs by making services easier to access.  2-1-1 encourages prevention and fosters self-sufficiency. 

The Virginia Alliance of Information & Referral Systems (VAIRS) is spearheading the 2-1-1 effort in the Commonwealth. The Virginia Statewide Information & Referral System, the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) and VAIRS have partnered to provide 2-1-1.

Where will 2-1-1 VIRGINIA be available?

2-1-1 Virginia became available to all people in Virginia on February 10, 2006 except those located in the Northern Virginia region.  People needing information and referral services in the Northern Virginia region can still call 1-800-230-6977 for assistance.

Who are the providers of 2-1-1 VIRGINIA?
    Council of Community Services (Roanoke)
    Family Resource & Referral (Staunton)
    The Planning Council (Norfolk)
    United Way of Central Virginia (Lynchburg)
    United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg (Richmond)

    *2-1-1 service will be available in Northern Virginia in 2007

What if I dial 2-1-1 but it doesn't connect?

See the explanations and possible solutions for problems connecting by clicking here.

Where can I get printed materials about 2-1-1 VIRGINIA?

Click here for the 2-1-1 Virginia brochure or contact the 2-1-1 VIRGINIA Coordinator, Barb Putney, by e-mail and she will send you the information you need. 

 Will funding 2-1-1 affect 911 funding?

Absolutely not!  2-1-1 funding is being sought from local, state and federal resources but will not be sought through a tariff charge similar to 911 tariffs.  In fact, the Federal Communication Commission’s ruling that allowed 2-1-1 stressed that it should be a tariff free service for users.

What other states have 2-1-1?

View the national status map and read  brief state by state progress reports.

What are the requirements for being a 2-1-1 provider?

In order to become a 2-1-1 Center in Virginia the Information & Referral (I&R) provider must go through the Alliance of Information & Referral Systems (AIRS) Accreditation process and meet the national standards and the Virginia Alliance of Information and Referral System’s certification process.  This a lengthy evaluation process that reviews four main components of I&R; service delivery, resource database, reports and measures, cooperative relationships and organizational requirements. 

How is United Way involved?

 United Ways have a long-standing commitment to funding information and referral (I&R) services in their communities.  In fact, each year United Ways allocate approximately $15 million for I&R services. Over 500 United Ways fund or operate I&R call centers around the country.  United Ways are encouraged to collaborate with local human services I&R centers to consider the most efficient and effective use of 2-1-1 and draft a business plan for those purposes.

I want to help with 2-1-1 in my region.  How can I get involved?

If you have not done so already, please contact your regional Information & Referral provider.  He or she can keep you abreast of important 2-1-1 topics and meetings.  You can also stay informed by visiting this website for updates.  Please promote 2-1-1 at every opportunity to colleagues, organizations, civic groups and especially to state representatives and legislators. 

Who do I contact for more information about 2-1-1 VIRGINIA?

     2-1-1 VIRGINIA Coordinator

Council of Community Services

PO Box 598

Roanoke, VA 24004

(540) 985-0131, ext. 115

E-mail:  barbp@councilofcommunityservices.org

 


 

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Last modified: Thursday, March 13, 2008